SaHridaya
A syncretic, mosaic interpretation… an interweaving of systems of thought, sometimes seemingly diverse, is the core of my work.
Each square canvas that makes up the whole includes handwritten scriptures. Individuals contribute to scribing these ‘mantras’, forming a type of meditation and yoga practice, called Likhita Japa.
Besides bringing about purity of heart and concentration of mind, this form of meditation provides control of and focus on an individual’s sight, tongue, and fills one with the power of endurance and peace of mind.
It all started when…
The Term 'Likitha Japa' is the practice of writing a potent sound syllable, over and over again.It is a powerful method of meditation where the mind and body is engaged.Like the flames of oblation in a 'homa' ceremony, the mantras are offered as a means of homage.
These series of paintings called SaHridaya paintings uses the Likita Japa as a means of binding the minds of the participants of a production. Every dancer, musician cast and crew are given specific areas to carefully scribe the mantras on seperate canvases and I finally collect them and paint the presiding deity on them. Above is the complete Sahridhaya painting of Goddess Saraswati, comprising of the 1000 names of the Goddess written 16 times. (April 2015) on display at the Studios of Saraswati Mahavidhyalaya Perth.