Spirit of Smoke
Spirit of smoke is a reminder of our current human condition. The work borrows its name from Dhumavati - a form of Hindu Goddess Kali. The work is a collection of 5 black spherical clay forms with Imprinted sweet molds, which are pit fired and are placed on a satin pillow to appear heavenly. The notion of ‘spiritual & material’ and ‘divine and earthly’ was explored.
“Dhumavati’ literally means "the smoky one" is old, ugly and widow, and is associated with things considered inauspicious and unattractive. She is a goddess of poverty, frustration, and despair. The paradoxical comprehensive exercise starts with making of clay idols of the goddess. Local predominating male craftsmen interpret these beautiful absurd and abused female forms. The men disparate for livelihood have no civility or responsibility towards their surroundings. For others organizing the event, these festive celebrations are a presumptuous show of wealth and status or even financial gain. It generates waste through many unnecessary precious offerings and propagates ignorance and dogmas. Yet Many in the name of blind faith perform extensive religious ritualistic activities and engage in Idol worship.
I was enlightened and impressed by Dhumavati’s intended teachings asking “devotee to look beyond the superficial, to look inwards and seek the inner truths of life.” The work is a plea for such inauspicious and unattractive behaviors to vanish from our society.
"The death of dogma is the beginning of morality" - Immanuel Kunt
