Aslam gives us a modern day Lakshmi with a Bal Ganesha on her knee. The baby is evocative and elegant. “Happy is the son whose faith in his mother remains unchallenged” wrote Louisa May Alcott. The inexplicable relationship that exists between a mother and a child goes back far in time. Even the Gods took refuge under the wings of their mothers’ love when their powers refused to work wonders for them. Hindu mythology would be incomplete without the reference of ‘Shakti’ as an embodiment of womanhood, power as a feminine force. However it is this ‘Shakti,’ which when coupled with ‘Shiva’, forms the ‘Shiva-Shakti.’ This mellifluous Lakshmi is born out of sculptural identities and composite Goddess forms. She is a symbol of both beauty and spiritual love. Aslam gives her modern minimalist jewels that accentuate her fine bones and features. The little dhoti like garment has a seductive signature about it. Her anklets speak of the rural rhythms that define India’s legacy and legions and the gold coins that tumble out of her slender fingers symbolise prosperity and abundance.
ASLAM SHAIKH
Divine Countenance
Acrylic on Canvas
38 x 60 inches
2018