Prem Jalkida (The Intoxication of love and attraction)

Prem Jalkida (The Intoxication of love and attraction) shows two lotus flowers with human faces bending towards each other. The lotus flower is very significant in Hindu culture, particularly associated with Vishnu, Brahma and Lakshmi. Growing from the mud to become something of supreme beauty, its perfect form is seen as a symbol of fertility, divinity and prosperity, as well as a promise of spirituality and eternity. Beneath the flowers, two peacocks (associated with love in Mithila symbolism) appear entwined, resting on the gently undulating water.

Dating from at least the 14th Century, Mithila painting and drawing was traditionally practised by women in the Mithila region of Bihar in northern India and Nepal.

Mithila works are characterised by intricate line drawing, geometric patterns and elaborate symbolism — fish represent fertility, peacocks are associated with love, and serpents with divinity. For centuries it was used to mark rituals and ceremonies, particularly weddings, and created mostly on the walls of people’s homes.

Pushpa Kumari (India b.1969) retains the distinctive styles and conventions of Mithila painting while addressing new subjects such as women’s rights in India.

Exhibited in 'The 8th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art' (APT8) | 21 Nov 2015 – 10 Apr 2016