more-in It took just 23 minutes for Gattem Venkatesh to carve a miniature model of the Empire State Building on an 18-mm long toothpick, but it took him over two-and-a-half years to get entry into the Guinness Book of World Records. A fourth year student of Gitam School of Architecture, Venkatesh says his joy knew no bounds when he received the Guinness certificate a month back. Sharing his excitement with The Hindu, the miniature artist says hard work and undeterred determination to stay focused will aid in achieving anything that one aspires to be. “My initial attempts to enter the Guinness Book of World Records failed as I was not trying anything different. After thorough research, I designed the miniature art crafting a toothpick using a surgical blade and a cutter. Though I waited for two years to realise my dream, toothpick carving clicked as authorities finally accepted my application after thorough verification,” he says. Venkatesh chose Empire Estate building as not many tried to create it on a toothpick to break a record. Inspired by Etikoppaka artisans, Venkatesh says his desire to create little marvels found a new dimension as he started designing chessboard, buildings, ship and other little wonders incorporating chalk piece, paper, pencils, pens, glass bangles and a bunch of other products. Even after receiving over a dozen awards including Bharat Gaurav Award and Rajiv Gandhi Excellence Award and breaking over 50 records, including Limca Book of Records, India Book of Records and Book of State Records, his hunger for setting new records remained. Attributing his success to support of his parents – G. Suri Babu and Satyavathi, the micro artist says he is sure to do his bit to society by training students of government schools in the art. Hailing from a farmer’s family, Venkatesh says he wants to make his parents proud by becoming an outstanding architect and artist. “The creative line I have chosen helps me realise my dreams and bring glory to my village Chinadoddigallu,” he says. A peep into his room turned studio reveals his six-year-long creative journey wherein over 380 artworks along with his achievements have been neatly displayed. “I will be launching an online portal under the label ‘Venkey Arts’,” he adds.

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