Shiv/Parvati, 1990, Oil on Canvas, diameter 3.5ft, Sold
This painting signifies the unity of the couple Shiv/Parvati, Masters of the universe.
This is the only good photograph of this painting, the other photograph I have has faded with time. The buyer loved the concept and the painting and wanted it immediately during the exhibition
I am very fascinated by the symbolism and meaning of this meditative/creative duo in Hinduism.
Please notice the diagonal lines of the legs of both entities. Everything in this painting contributes to the concept of a spiral to create visual unity. This painting was meant to be mounted with a fan at the back that could be turned on to spin the painting in a spiral. The fan could be turned on and off to control the speed at which the viewer felt it was best. The painting was also meant to be mounted on the ceiling above a bed.
I had not yet mounted the painting with the fan on the back when I sold it and requested the buyer to do so. This is the only time I ever incorporated a mechanical addition to an artwork to change the visual the visual effect that I wanted to have.
I have created many paintings on the subject of Shiv/Parvati, the latest being a work on the Goddess Kali. In Hindu mythology, Parvati metamorphoses into Kali, on the request of Shiva, to destroy an asura (demon) Daruk.
My mother, who is a tapestry weaver, really liked this painting. She made a beautiful tapestry based on it that is just the same size as the original. It is included here.