Oil, acrylic, & mixed media on canvas

16″ x 20″

2018

The “Panchakanya” are a group of iconic Hindu heroines. When their names are chanted it is believed to dispel all sins. Between each Panchakanya there are several common themes, the most important being loss. Each of them suffered a tragedy at the hands of the men in their lives, but despite being used they continued to battle life and society.

Each “kanya” is a victim of patriarchy, but in their loss lies strength.

In this series, each “kanya” is depicted in relation to the elements: water, fire, earth, and space.

Ahalya was the wife of the sage Gautama Maharishi.  She was tricked into committing adultery by a king who disguised himself as her husband. Because of this she was punished, cursed, and abandoned by her family.

AHALYA represents water:

“Water does not resist.

Water flows.

When you plunge your hand into it, all you feel is a caress.

Water is not a solid wall, it will not stop you.

But water always goes where it wants to go,

and nothing in the end can stand against it. 

Water is patient. 

Dripping water wears away stone. 

Remember you are half water.

If you can’t go through an obstacle, go around it.

Water does.”

~Margaret Atwood