Olivia Fraser
Kalachakra, 2016
Stone pigments and Arabic gum on handmade Sanganer paper
27.9 x 27.9 cm. (11 x 11 in.) each.
27.9 x 83.8 cm. (11 x 33 in.) overall
27.9 x 83.8 cm. (11 x 33 in.) overall
I have long been interested in exploring the possible meanings and interpretations of various colours and their associations with the sacred. Here I have used a dark indigo, associated with...
I have long been interested in exploring the possible meanings and interpretations of various colours and their associations with the sacred. Here I have used a dark indigo, associated with the gods, in particular Vishnu, and white, associated with the first ‘man’ Purusha, and in Tantra, with the male principle. The idea of the wheel of Time in Hindu philosophy is associated with the three male gods: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. In meditation there is both movement and stillness: this reflects, I think, what the concept of the wheel of Time is about. Here I wanted to explore the idea of Time and its revolving nature: from Creation (Brahma), through Preservation (Vishnu) to Destruction (Shiva). I wanted to express the sensation of Time, the sensation of its movement- depicted with spiralling lotus petals turning in one direction (Creation) and in the opposite direction (Destruction) - with both flanking an ever expanding stasis (Preservation) in the central panel. I am interested in exploring visually the essence of a complex philosophical idea.
Exhibitions
Olivia Fraser: Sacred Garden, Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh, 16 - 30 November 2016Olivia Fraser: Anahat, Art Dubai, UAE, 14 – 18 March 2017
The Lotus Within, Grosvenor Gallery, London, 6 - 26 June 2018 (illustrated in catalogue)