Rithika Merchant
Briny Briny Sea
2012
Gouache and Ink on Paper 95 x 60 cms
My works are an exploration of epics and myths across geography. I create mosaics of myths that question received histories that are available to us throughout culture. Derived from an attempt at self discovery and aimed towards solving contemporary strife; created by what we may describe as a conflict of civilizations, which is negated by locating a mythical strain of unanimity.
I am keen to explore the common thread that runs through different cultures and religions. Similar myths, stories and ideas are shared by cultures all around the world. My paintings explore this concept while also featuring creatures and symbolism that are part of my personal visual vocabulary. Each piece can be seen as a totem that invites the viewer to stitch together their own narrative, drawing on collective memories and signifiers to generate meanings, I further explore how objects can be markers of identity and how these may be reworked in contemporary contexts as meanings and interpretations change.
Nature plays a pivotal role in my work and is emphasized by the use of organic shapes and non saturated colours. My paintings are made using a combination of watercolour and collage elements, drawing on 17th century botanical drawings and folk art, to create a body of work that is visually linked to our collective pasts.
Courtesy of rithikamerchant.com, Rithika Merchant
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