In my current work I am using symbols, which represent the Tattva’s or elements, as well as the upward pointing triangle representing Siva or consciousness.
We are living in disturbing and turbulent times on this planet. We need to raise our consciousness to create balance instead of mayhem. In a subtle way maybe, I am trying to heal the world through raising my own consciousness. It is difficult to talk about my work because I am trying to express or experience something beyond words, something which is part of our deeper selves and the interconnectedness of all.
I want the viewer to connect and experience their own interpretation of the piece so, if I say what it means to me, it may distract from that. I try and keep titles fairly abstract to allow a personal interpretation.
Each piece is, in some way a self-portrait of how I interpret the world around me and how I am connecting to it at that point in time.
In Hindu symbolism, an upward-pointing triangle (△) represents Shiva, embodying the masculine principle, spirit, often associated with the element of fire and spiritual ascent.
It also represents Absolute Being and Consciousness (Purusha).
According to various Indian schools of philosophy, tattvas (Sanskrit: तत्त्व) are the elements or aspects of reality that constitute human experience. In some traditions, they are conceived as an aspect of the Indian deities. Although the number of tattvas varies depending on the philosophical school, together they are thought to form the basis of all our experience.
The five main Tattvas or elements of nature that comprise the entire planet are Water, Earth, Fire, Air, and Ether. The sixth ingredient, Maha Tattva, or cosmic intelligence, affects the underlying dynamics of these elements through divine consciousness, resulting in inner core healing.
The Five Tattwa Symbols
- Akasha (Spirit/Aether): A black oval or egg.
- Vayu (Air): A blue circle.
- Tejas (Fire): A red triangle.
- Apas (Water): A silver half-circle or crescent.
- Prithvi (Earth): A yellow square.
