By Chandran Iyer
At 75, LC Singh, the visionary Founder of Nihilent Ltd., continues to bridge the worlds of technology, art, and storytelling in a way that few can. Known simply as “LC” in his circles, he exemplifies the harmony between the left and right brain, balancing a deep passion for photography with a sharp business acumen.
LC , is the founder and Executive Chairman Nihilent Ltd., a global consulting and solutions integration company with a holistic approach to problem solving. A pioneer of IT, Mr. Singh has contributed extensively to the development of Indian IT industry worldwide.
Over the past 16 years, Singh has honed his craft behind the lens, capturing the elegance of wildlife, nature, and landscapes with his Nikon camera. His work is a reflection of both meticulous attention to detail and an emotional connection to the world around him. “You don’t take pictures, you make pictures,” he says, embodying his process, which includes using 18 different software tools to perfect his images.
LC Singh has a particular fondness for photographing cascading waterfalls. “I love the sheer dynamism of waterfalls in motion,” he shares. While bird photography demands a high shutter speed to capture birds in flight, waterfall photography requires a different approach. To achieve a soft, cotton-like effect, a low shutter speed is essential, allowing the water’s graceful flow to be beautifully rendered in each shot, he says.
LC also has a passion for capturing the vibrant autumn scenes, particularly the colorful Jacaranda trees in South Africa during October, their blooming season. “I love visiting Pretoria, where the streets are lined with these stunning trees, transforming the entire city into a sea of purple “says LC. He has an impressive collection of photographs showcasing the breathtaking beauty of this annual spectacle.
Singh’s multifaceted talents extend beyond photography. He wrote and produced Banaras: A Mystic Love Story, a film that garnered critical acclaim for its evocative storytelling. This seamless interplay between the creative and the analytical is a hallmark of Singh’s approach to life—an artist with a vision and an entrepreneur with a strategy.
His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to launch Artoreal, a platform that redefines how we engage with art. Artoreal brings together emerging artists and photographers, curating extraordinary works that can be visualized in your home using cutting-edge AR technology.
Art lovers can not only discover new talents but also see these pieces come to life on their walls before making a personalized selection, with the artwork delivered right to their doorstep. LC Singh’s dual mastery of artistic vision and business insight has created a company where innovation meets inspiration, making him a truly remarkable figure in both worlds.
Nihilent’s office at Weikfield IT Citi Info Park on Nagar Road stands as a tribute to LC Singh’s deep passion for photography. The walls are adorned with stunning images of nature, wildlife, birds, and landscapes—each photograph a personal reflection of his artistic journey. These visuals not only enhance the aesthetic of the workspace but also serve as a testament to Singh’s ability to bring the beauty of the natural world into the heart of a bustling IT environment, blending his love for art with his business vision.
In LC Singh’s cabin, behind his swivel chair, hangs a striking photograph of an African elephant, captured through his own lens. The image, with its majestic presence, symbolizes strength, stability, and resilience—qualities that resonate deeply with Singh’s own journey. This powerful visual not only adds a personal touch to the space but also serves as a reminder of the profound connection between nature’s grandeur and the qualities essential for leadership.
“I prefer not to photograph human beings,” LC Singh remarks, his eyes twinkling with a childlike curiosity for the natural world. His fascination lies in capturing the raw beauty of nature where life unfolds in its purest, unfiltered form. For Singh, the natural world offers endless inspiration, with each scene presenting a unique story that speaks to him on a deeper, almost spiritual level. His photography is a quiet homage to the untamed beauty of the earth, reflecting his profound connection with the world around him. Through his lens, he captures moments that evoke wonder, serenity, and a deep respect for nature’s silent splendor.
Singh who likes to study ontology and epistemology, loves shooting at national parks such as Ranthambore, Pench, Tadoba etc., but his favourite is the Kruger National Park in South Africa and he goes there at least once a year.
Although LC Singh is a self-taught photographer, he finds great joy in sharing his knowledge by conducting photography workshops. “Photography pulls you into the moment—you lose all sense of time and place,” he reflects, noting how the practice has sharpened his focus. “When I’m capturing a flower, my mind is completely free from work. Photography offers me the same sense of calm and mindfulness as meditation does,” he explains. For Singh, it’s more than just a hobby; it’s a serene experience that fosters a unique connection with different forms of life, providing him with a profound sense of peace.
LC’s venture Artoreal, reflects his personal passion for photography and art. He says “Artoreal is inspired by Nihilent’s commitment to the emerging experience economy, where we prioritize convenience and innovation for our global clients. We believe the future of business lies in creating memorable experiences rather than merely offering services.
In our mission to enhance customer experiences, we recognized that art needed to be more accessible and easier to purchase. My passion for photography, coupled with the rapid digitalization of business, drove us to create Artoreal. Our platform reflects our dedication to making art easily accessible, aligning with our broader goal of delivering ease-of-use in all aspects of life”, adds LC.
Artoreal combines art and technology, using AI, Web XR, and AR for visualization. LC sees these technologies shaping the future of the art world.
He says, the traditional art-viewing and purchasing model relies heavily on physical attendance at exhibitions, limiting access for art lovers and imposing high costs and logistical challenges.
Artoreal transforms this experience by providing 24/7 access to art for free or a nominal fee. Artists can host virtual 3D exhibitions, inviting contacts, connoisseurs, and critics for immersive VR walkthroughs.
“Our AR technology allows buyers to explore different sizes, mediums, and framing options while visualizing how artwork will look on their walls—all from home. This innovative approach, known as VIXR, empowers emerging artists with cost-effective opportunities and enhances the buying experience by removing uncertainty” adds LC.
Artoreal democratizes art by making curated pieces accessible to everyone, from investors to new homeowners. Its theme-based collections cater to businesses like corporates and hotels.
“We provide 24/7 exposure for sellers through affordable 3D VR exhibitions, empowering emerging talent from smaller towns. We support photographers and digital artists while enabling painters to offer customizable prints for recurring income”, says LC.
Buyers enjoy a seamless experience with AR visualization and a diverse range of wall art. Artoreal uniquely offers photographs, digital art, and customizable prints in various sizes and frames for every buyer.
Artoreal is dedicated to showcasing emerging artists and amplifying their voices in the art world. The platform not only highlights their unique creations but also works tirelessly to connect these artists with a broader audience. By organizing exhibitions, events, and online showcases, Artoreal provides a valuable opportunity for new talents to gain exposure and recognition.
“At Artoreal, we empower emerging artists by providing a level playing field for those from smaller towns. We enable art school graduates and talented, struggling artists to showcase their work without relocating to big cities” ,says LC adding that through their platform, artists can host cost-effective 3D virtual exhibitions, reducing financial barriers while reaching a global audience. This approach ensures their work receives the recognition it deserves.
About the future plans of Artoreal LC says “We envision Artoreal as a vital part of the Interior Designer and Architect community, creating an ecosystem that democratizes art by providing pieces tailored to location, purpose, and ambiance.
In addition to framed wall art, we plan to diversify our offerings, making Artoreal the go-to platform for all art types to cater to various tastes and preferences.
Our goal is to establish a strong presence in major markets like the USA, bringing our unique blend of technology and art to a global audience”.
Art and technology are often perceived as worlds apart, each following its unique set of rules. However, Artoreal masterfully bridges this gap, blending the creative freedom of art with the precision of technology.
“Over the past decade, technology has become a key enabler across various fields, simplifying everyday tasks like payments and enhancing the art world. At Artoreal, we harness technology to make art more accessible and customizable, says LC.
“By integrating AI, Web XR, and AR, we bridge the gap between art and technology, creating a seamless experience for artists and buyers. This approach democratizes art and ensures it reaches a wider audience, making the buying and appreciation process more convenient and engaging”, added LC.
LC Singh is a distinguished alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology and an alumnus of the Harvard Business School. A pioneer in the field of information technology, he performed key roles at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).
At the time of leaving the company, he was the Senior Vice President, in charge of operations for UK, South Africa, and the Middle East. In addition, he also looked after marketing, public relations and brand building. He briefly worked with Zensar Technologies as President and CEO. He founded Nihilent in 2000.
In a short span, Nihilent has emerged as one of the most creative consulting and IT companies in India. LC is the author of Nihilent’s patented change management framework MC³. LC is a Fellow of The Institute of Management Consultants of India (IMCI) and Computer Society of India (CSI), and a certified Due Diligence Professional (CDDP).
He is an internationally recognized thought leader on design & systems thinking, and an invited speaker at global conferences on Design Thinking, Change Management, and Digital Disruption.
At the 9th edition of the Pune Leadership Awards in 2022, the World HRD Congress honored LC Singh with a Lifetime Achievement Award during a ceremony held in Pune.
LC Singh’s journey exemplifies the powerful synergy of intellect, creativity, and empathy. He has masterfully woven together a life that embraces both cutting-edge technology and the timeless beauty of nature. His legacy extends beyond the business world and into the realms of art and inspiration, where he continuously enriches others with his experiences, knowledge, and vision.
As both a mentor and a pioneer, Singh’s impact on technology, art, and human experience is profound, leaving a lasting impression on every community he touches. The Lifetime Achievement Award he received at the 9th Pune Leadership Awards is not just a recognition of his contributions but a testament to his unwavering pursuit of excellence across multiple domains.
Through Nihilent and Artoreal, LC Singh has left an indelible mark on the world, setting a new standard for what it means to be a visionary leader in the modern age.