• Druvinka Puri on faith and artistic expressions

Someone’s beliefs or lack of beliefs have always been something that is deeply personal to them. While many of us choose to express our beliefs in words and actions, artists such as Druvinka Puri expressed her faith through her vivid and memorable paintings. 

Her exhibition ‘Alakshya: One that cannot be perceived’ opened on the 6 March at the Barefoot Gallery and will be on view till the 28 March from 6 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. 

Faithful expressions 

For Puri faith is not just a belief but a way of life. As a sadhu who practices faith based traditions in India, she has transformed her spirituality into an expression of the mysteries of human experiences. 

Visitors entering the gallery are greeted by a serene sight. Soft spiritual music plays in the background and clay lamps that remain lit at the entrance give the space a warm and aesthetic vibe. The setting encourages viewers to enjoy and observe the artwork closely.

To Puri, art is not just a mode of expression but a tie to her past. She hails from a family that has been involved with art and holds a BFA in Visva Bharathi Shanthiniketan, a renowned school in West Bengal. 

Puri’s paintings combine spiritual symbolism with muted colours such as blues, greys and sepia as well as fluid shapes. Many of the works draw inspiration from Hindu traditions while also using abstract elements such as textures and shapes. Through these forms, Puri explores themes of devotion, transformation and spiritual reflection.

Sacred imagery

One of the works on display is ‘Chrysalis, Ganesha,’ a painting of Lord Ganesh surrounded by swirling forms. The movement of the swirls around the figure creates a sense of transformation. The imagery reflects the idea of growth and change, which is often associated with spiritual development. Ganesh, widely known as the remover of obstacles, appears at the centre of this movement.

Another work, ‘Maha Kali, Devaloka,’ depicts the goddess Kali. The painting presents Kali as a powerful figure and reflects her association with transformation and destruction of ego. The strong imagery highlights the role the goddess plays in many spiritual traditions as a force that represents both destruction and renewal. What we found interesting was the depiction of eyes in the painting. It made us wonder and question everything we know about faith. 

The paintings throughout the exhibition combine symbolism and colour to explore ideas connected to faith and spirituality. The use of layered forms and flowing shapes allows viewers to interpret the works in different ways.

A contemplative experience

The calm environment of the gallery adds to the experience of viewing the exhibition. The spiritual themes create a setting that feels reflective. This atmosphere encourages visitors to spend time observing the works rather than simply photographing them for a few likes on instagram. 

“What I love about this exhibition is its portrayal of spirituality as an artistic and essential part of our lives,” exhibition visitor Vinura Abeysekara, 29, said. “It reminds me that spirituality is something that is all around us and influences us in unexpected and often surprising ways.” 

The title of the exhibition, ‘Alakshya: One that cannot be perceived,’ shows the idea of exploring things that cannot always be seen or easily explained. Through her paintings, Puri attempts to give visual form to these spiritual ideas.

The exhibition highlights how art can be used to express personal faith and inner reflection. By translating spiritual experiences into visual imagery, Puri’s work shows how art can communicate ideas that often go beyond words.

What visitors can expect 

For fans of art, spirituality and exploring the unknown, the exhibition is a fascinating and unique experience. 

“As a practicing Hindu, I was curious to see a representation of our faith,” Meera Tiwari,45, said. “And I wasn’t disappointed. I especially enjoyed seeing a painting of Lord Ganesha, who reminded me that I could achieve anything.” 

Tiwari said that this exhibition is a good opportunity for people to learn about culture, despite their religious beliefs and traditions. 

“What we must remember is that art is meant for expression,” she said. “I think this expression is beautiful.”