In Sequence :
1.) Goddess Kamala
2.) Goddess Tara
3.) Goddess Tripura Sundari
4.) Goddess Bhairavi
5.) Goddess Bhuvaneshvari
6.) Goddess Chhinnamasta
7.) Goddess Dhumavati
8.) Goddess Kali
9.) Goddess Bagalamukhi
10.) Goddess Matangi
Introducing the Ten Mahavidyas: A Journey Through Divine Feminine Power
This exquisite collection of ten watercolor paintings captures the essence of the Dasha Mahavidyas, the ten wisdom goddesses of the Hindu tantric tradition. Each painting, a vibrant masterpiece created on traditional *patti* folk art from the sacred temple town of Puri, Orissa, brings to life the unique character and symbolism of these powerful deities. These are not mere depictions; they are windows into a rich tapestry of mythological narratives, spiritual symbolism, and artistic expression.
The Art of Patti Painting: A Legacy From Puri
The paintings are executed in the vibrant and intricate style of *patti* painting, a folk art form deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Puri. Known for its bold colors, detailed designs, and use of natural pigments, *patti* painting has been a cherished tradition for centuries, adorning temple walls and enriching the religious and cultural landscape of Orissa. The use of *patti* (thin wooden boards) as the canvas adds a unique texture and historical significance to each painting. The 18 inch height by 12 inch width dimensions of each piece allow for a detailed and impactful presentation of each Mahavidya.
Encountering the Ten Mahavidyas: From Shakti to Compassion
The ten Mahavidyas represent diverse facets of the divine feminine energy, *Shakti*. Each goddess possesses unique attributes, iconography, and mythology, reflecting a spectrum of power, wisdom, and compassion. The set includes depictions of:
* Kali:
The fierce, primordial goddess, associated with destruction and transformation, who represents the ultimate power to overcome fear and ignorance. Tales of her slaying demons and consuming the darkness are integral to Hindu mythology.
* Tara:
The saviour goddess, a symbol of hope and protection, often depicted with a serene countenance and multiple arms, each holding a protective symbol. Tara's compassion offers solace and guidance amidst life’s challenges.
* Tripurasundari:
The embodiment of beauty and love, a cosmic energy that creates and sustains the universe. Her elegance and charm belie her immense power.
* Bhuvaneshvari:
The supreme goddess of the universe, embodying the totality of existence. She represents the unwavering and infinite divine power that pervades all creation.
* Chhinnamasta:
A particularly striking figure representing the dynamic interplay of creation and destruction. Her image, showing her severing her own head, signifies the transcendence of ego and the attainment of spiritual liberation. This often provokes deep contemplation and exploration.
* Dhumavati:
The goddess of widowhood, representing the acceptance of life’s transience and the empowerment found in solitude and introspection. She teaches us the value of embracing both the light and the dark.
* Bagalamukhi:
The goddess of speech, representing both the power of communication and the ability to silence negativity. She is often invoked to neutralize obstacles and enemies.
* Matangi:
The goddess of knowledge and music, associated with learning and artistic expression. Her connection to the arts highlights the power of creativity in our spiritual journey.
* Kamalatmika:
The goddess of lotus, embodying purity, beauty, and spiritual growth. She represents the blossoming of consciousness and the attainment of enlightenment.
* Shodashi:
Often associated with youthful energy and the boundless potential of creation, she is a powerful representation of primal energy and the cyclical nature of life. Her youthful energy signifies the endless possibilities of divine creation.
A Unique Addition to Your Sacred Space
This collection is not just a set of paintings; it’s an invitation to explore the profound depths of the divine feminine. Each artwork is a powerful reminder of the multifaceted nature of Shakti, and their inclusion in your home, temple, or sacred space will invite a deeper understanding of their divine energy. The vivid colors and intricate details of the *patti* style will captivate your senses, providing a source of both artistic beauty and spiritual inspiration. Own a piece of sacred art, a tribute to the timeless wisdom of the Mahavidyas.
Mastering the Ancient Technique: Exploring the Meticulous Creation of Pattachitra Paintings
The traditional Pattachitra is a scroll painting that is done on
cloth. This is revealed in the name; Pattachitra is a Sanskrit
term made from two words i.e. Patta meaning cloth and Chitra
meaning picture. The main subject of this painting is portraying
Hindu mythological narratives, scenes from religious texts, and
folktales. Pattachitra paintings are especially practiced in
eastern Indian states such as West Bengal and Odisha, and also in
some parts of Bangladesh. This art form is closely related to Shri
Jagannath and the tradition of the Vaishnava sect. It is believed
that Pattachitra art originated in the 11th century and the people
of Odisha practice it even today without any discrepancy. Bengalis
use these scroll paintings for ritual purposes (as a visual
device) during the performance of a song or Aarti.
Pattachitra paintings are characterized by creative and
traditional motifs/designs, decorative borders, and bright
colorful applications. The outline of the figure and motifs are
bold and sharp. Some common shapes and motifs seen in these
paintings are trees, flowers, leaves, elephants, and other
creatures. The artists of Odisha and Bengal still use the
traditional method of painting which gives a unique look to it
altogether.
1. Canvas is prepared
The process of painting a Pattachitra begins by preparing the
canvas (patta). Generally, cotton cloth is used for making the
canvas. The local artists dip the cotton cloth in a mixture of
tamarind seeds and water for a few days. The cloth is then taken
out and dried in the sun. Now natural gum is applied over it to
stick another layer of cotton cloth on it. Thus a thick layer of
cotton cloth is formed. This layered cotton is sun-dried and a
paste of chalk powder, tamarind, and gum is applied on both
sides. The surface of the cloth is then rubbed with two
different stones for smoothening and it is again dried. This
process gives the cloth a leathery finish and it is now ready to
be painted.
2. Natural colors are made using traditional method
The painters prepare and use vegetable and mineral colors for
application in the painting. White color is made from conch
shells, black is made by burning coconut shells, Hingula is used
for red color, Ramaraja for blue, and Haritala for yellow.
3. Colors are filled in
The artist now makes a double-lined border on all four sides of
the canvas. The local artists are so expert in painting that
they do not draw figures and motifs with pencil but directly
draw them with a brush. The paint brushes that the painters use
are made of the hair of domestic animals, a bunch of which is
tied to the end of a bamboo stick. The figures are now painted
with natural colors using the indigenous brushes. The outline is
thickened with black color.
4. Painting is given a finishing
Finally, the painting is varnished/glazed to protect it from any
damage and to get a glossy shine on the surface.
The making of a Pattachitra is laborious work and therefore, one
painting may sometimes take over a month to complete. Due to their
classical look, these paintings are admired by people from all
over the world. The artistic skills used in Pattachitra are passed
down from one generation to another and thus are preserved to
date.