SOUL ART By Letchmy Ganapathy

Deepam

The First Awakening 
Do the unveiled eyes reveal more than an unveiled body? Here is a woman who has had the first stirrings of self-pride. While she still bows her head, her eyes question how her beholder really perceives her.

She belongs to my ‘Celebrating Women' series, dedicated to the strength and resilience that I’ve seen embodied in innumerable women. The initial paintings in the series represent women who have their eyes shut, not sure of how to express what they feel within. The women in the series evolve as they become aware of their beauty and strength, and as they begin to question social norms.

The First Awakening

A Traditional Indian woman, adorning Jasmine flowers on her hair, lovely earrings called Jimikis and also spotting a dot (potty) on her forehead. This was how most Indian mothers of the 20th century were!!

Indian Grace in Bloom

The Awakened Damsel 
She has finally found her identity, her self-pride. She is confident and has a vision. Her eyes look afar, representing hope and countless opportunities. 

She belongs to my ‘Celebrating Women' series, dedicated to the strength and resilience that I’ve seen embodied in innumerable women. The initial paintings in the series represent women who have their eyes shut, not sure of how to express what they feel within. The women in the series evolve as they become aware of their beauty and strength, and as they begin to question social norms.

The Awakened Damsel

The Passive Beauty 
Is that an umbrella protecting this Japanese beauty from the sun’s rays or is that the sun scorching her? This is a symbolic representation of culture that may seem to protect but so often stifles women. 

She belongs to my ‘Celebrating Women' series, dedicated to the strength and resilience that I’ve seen embodied in innumerable women. The initial paintings in the series represent women who have their eyes shut, not sure of how to express what they feel within. The women in the series evolve as they become aware of their beauty and strength, and as they begin to question social norms.

The Passive Beauty

The painting portrays a complex emotional state centered around two women who seem to claim ownership of a single child. The biological mother’s role appears to be overshadowed by the powerful presence of the significant other, who seems to claim equal or more influence over the baby! The painting invites a reflection on the intricacies of motherhood, ownership, and the intergenerational power plays that shape family dynamics.

Shadows of Maternal Claim

The Beholder’s Pride 
She is wearing the 'gele' (head-wrap) and lovely coral jewellery while she admires the flowers from her fiancée. She is unsure of her beauty, hesitantly acknowledging it, because her fiancée perceives her as beautiful today.

She belongs to my ‘Celebrating Women' series, dedicated to the strength and resilience that I’ve seen embodied in innumerable women. The initial paintings in the series represent women who have their eyes shut, not sure of how to express what they feel within. The women in the series evolve as they become aware of their beauty and strength, and as they begin to question social norms.

The Beholder's Pride

"Dreams" portrays a woman lost in quiet introspection, her delicate posture and closed eyes suggesting a journey into her innermost thoughts. The vibrant red backdrop contrasts with the soft, flowing lines of her form, evoking a sense of both strength and vulnerability. This painting captures the essence of a dreamlike state, where emotions and memories blend, inviting viewers to explore their own dreams and desires through its vivid and evocative imagery.

Dreams

The Veiled Gaze portrays a striking image of a woman, her face partially framed by a translucent green veil that adds a sense of mystery and grace. Her deep, expressive eyes, adorned with dark eyeliner, and her vibrant red lips convey both strength and softness. The silver jewelry — a nose ring, earrings, and a heavy necklace — enhances her traditional yet timeless beauty, symbolizing cultural heritage and elegance. The soft background, painted with blended shades of green and yellow, contrasts with the vivid colors of her attire, highlighting her luminous complexion and serene expression. This painting invites viewers to look beyond the surface, to see the stories and emotions hidden behind her captivating gaze, celebrating the strength, beauty, and complexity of womanhood.

The Veiled Gaze

Frida's Spirit celebrates the essence of Frida Kahlo, reimagined through a modern and abstract lens. The painting captures her unmistakable gaze and iconic features, such as her bold brows and deep, expressive eyes, surrounded by an explosion of vibrant colors that symbolize her passionate approach to art and life. The energetic brushstrokes blend primary colors in a dance of emotion and creativity, echoing Frida's own bold palette and unique style. The fragmented background hints at both the strength and fragility within her, reflecting her personal struggles and artistic resilience. This artwork pays homage to Kahlo’s enduring influence, inviting viewers to connect with her spirit of defiance, introspection, and vibrant self-expression.

SOUL ART By Letchmy Ganapathy

collection: Women

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