By P Abigail Sadhana Rao
Temples are significant in Hindu iconography, embodying profound symbolism that transcends mere architectural beauty. Incidentally, they have also been a popular subject in paintings throughout history. They hold religious and cultural significance and evoke a sense of tranquillity and spirituality. Artists have depicted temples in various styles capturing their grandeur and symbolism.
Indian temple paintings are emblematic of reconstructing the universe and its universal principles that enable everything in it to function. They are portrayed as sacred trees exploring the concept of the bija, or seed, which holds the potential for divine consciousness and creation. Through temple’s artistic expression in paintings, we are reminded of the eternal cycle of creation and the divine presence that permeates all existence. Let’s delve into exploring some of the temple paintings on Mojarto.
Temple On A Street
Iruvan Karunakaran captures the essence of common Indian citizens in their daily routines. This artwork of his is awash with his masterful use of contrast as he brings to life the mundane scenes of everyday people, while also capturing the spirituality and divinity of temples and deities. Karunakaran’s artistic prowess is nothing short of awe-inspiring, as he masterfully preserves and revitalizes India’s rich cultural heritage through his art.
With an unparalleled talent for capturing historic exuberance on canvas, he seamlessly blends the timeless traditions, vibrant customs, and majestic landmarks that define India’s heritage. Each stroke of his brush seems to invoke the echoes of the past, transporting viewers to bygone eras, and igniting a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for history and culture. Karunakaran’s ability to bridge the gap between the past and the present, infusing his works with a palpable sense of authenticity, is a testament to his exceptional skill and unwavering admiration for India’s cultural legacy.
Temple On A Hill
Surekha Kamath’s passion for painting shines through in every stroke she creates on a blank canvas. She specializes in crafting realistic landscapes and seascapes. She takes pride in showcasing her rich and diverse Indian cultural heritage, often capturing ancient temples and buildings that hold immense historical significance.
Kamath’s painting of a temple on a hill exudes a refreshing and enchanting aura, captivating viewers with its serene beauty. Skillfully employing a pastel palette to depict the skies, she infuses the canvas with a soft, dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the tranquil setting. The temple, with its simplistic and unadorned design, becomes the focal point of the composition, drawing attention to its abandoned yet enduring charm. Kamath’s mastery lies in her ability to evoke a sense of timelessness as if the temple has stood witness to countless ages, and its weathered facade tells untold stories of the past. Through her creations, she leaves a lasting impression, offering a glimpse of the soul-stirring beauty that resonates with viewers far and wide.
Temple By The River
Sudha Srivastava’s exquisite paintings become a veritable medium of self-expression. She deftly conjures mesmerizing masterpieces that effortlessly captivate the beholder’s imagination. In her latest series, “Banaras,” Srivastava’s virtuosity shines, brilliantly capturing the ephemeral dance of light and colours, transporting spectators to the enchanting realm of the ancient city.
Within her captivating artwork, the iconic Banaras Ghats and temples come to life, seemingly beckoning viewers to immerse themselves in the reposeful panorama. A scene unfolds with people aboard a boat, poised for departure. The juxtaposition of the two boats, one departing and the other patiently awaiting its voyage, creates a beautiful contrast, symbolizing the continuous flow of life and the cyclical nature of journeys, both literal and metaphorical. The canvas exudes an atmosphere of anticipation and movement, as the figures within the vessel prepare for an enchanting spiritual journey along the shimmering waters of the riverbank. Despite the vibrant throng of humanity, Srivastava’s artistry gracefully retains the eternal charm and splendour of Banaras, suffusing the creation with an ethereal and captivating ambience.
The coveted platform of Mojarto beckons art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the masterful brushstrokes of artists whose works transcend borders and intricately bind them to the very soul of places these temples are built on— a realm steeped in cultural profundity and elegance. Surrender to the enchanting journey that these artists and many others offer as they unveil the gateway to India’s ineffable allure, culture and heritage, intricately woven within their magnificent oeuvre of paintings.