metal casting on rock using beeswax and cow dung (known as ‘Rock Dhokra’)
EXHIBITED AT THE BOMBAY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
The proceeds from the creation of these two sculptures went to fund the establishment and sustenance of Devrai Art Village, where craftsmen of Rock Dhokra reside, practice their art, and proudly educate their daughters.
HEART IN MY HAND
This is one of my first self-exploratory artworks which examines my personal involvement (depicted by the hand which is the same size and shape as my hand) in the process of my maturation and affinity towards spirituality (indicated by a spiritual symbol of the ‘Charka,’ or ‘Mother’s Symbol’ on the hand). It focuses on my progression from a stony, hard-hearted person, (indicated by the use of stone to create the heart) into a softer version of myself (shown by the flowers engulfing the hardness of the stone).
GAY MARRIAGE (FIRE)
This artwork is a satire of homosexuality in India, where homosexual marriage is illegal. There are 2 women who are separated by an ‘antarpath,’ (a sheet of cloth that usually represents the union of 2 individuals), that is burnt by fire (fire usually represents marriage in India, but in this case has been used to break a marriage). One of the 2 women has been created in the traditional way that men are usually depicted in Dhokra art. This borders on the concept of transsexuality (hair represents his feminine side). The rock as the base which unites the two individuals is symbolic of homosexuality as a natural, organic phenomenon which can be explained through biology, physiology & psychology.
An in depth understanding of the community, craft and history of Rock Dhokra, and how it evolved into 'Rock' Dhokra in Panchgani, Maharashtra :
Process of creating the initial structure with beeswax :
The kiln in which the sculpture is cast :
Final Images :
