Mombasa is my island birthplace on the East Coast of Africa. The colors I used remind me of the rich waters where I grew up. I used the painting of the “little people” to signify the importance of family. School, temple and home, with all the friends and family made up much of my childhood. The colors signify the Indian cultural background and teachings that my mother and grandmother bestowed on me and my sisters.
My Mother’s “gunghat” (head-covering) signified her values and her teachings, which have stayed with me and strengthened my values throughout my life’s journey. I used the elephant to symbolize the transition from East Africa to my next phase of life in India. I used the symbol of “Ganesh” (In Hinduism, Lord Ganesh clears the obstacles and paves the way for individuals to move forward in life) to articulate how my faith and perseverance helped me make this transition. Ganesh and Ganpatti are always part of good wishes and blessings in Hinduism.
The piece is composed of different media; acrylics, fabrics, emblems from antique fabrics and “Warli” Art (ancient form of Indian folk art created by the tribal people from the North Sahyadri Range in India) are used as embellishment in the background, finishing the piece. Some of the emblems come from my garments made in Gujurat, India.
