Heart House
Heart House
The heart is the universal symbol for human emotion, which is why notions of closeness and vulnerability are expressed through this trope. Anything or anyone we adore is often referred to as “close to the heart.” One’s home is the most intimate built space that can be experienced, and Heart House is an architectural and sculptural allegory for this feeling of belonging. Each space in the house is a metaphor for the different members of the human heart, reflecting their functions and roles in oxygenating and recharging blood. The connectivity between the rooms of the house and their circulation paths are also akin to the movement of a blood molecule through the oxygenation process. This network generates a labyrinth of unique spaces, with both private nooks and expansive moments.
The heart is the universal symbol for human emotion, which is why notions of closeness and vulnerability are expressed through this trope. Anything or anyone we adore is often referred to as “close to the heart.” One’s home is the most intimate built space that can be experienced, and Heart House is an architectural and sculptural allegory for this feeling of belonging. Each space in the house is a metaphor for the different members of the human heart, reflecting their functions and roles in oxygenating and recharging blood. The connectivity between the rooms of the house and their circulation paths are also akin to the movement of a blood molecule through the oxygenation process. This network generates a labyrinth of unique spaces, with both private nooks and expansive moments.
Bandi Chhor 2020
gouache on card 16" x 20"
ਗਈ ਬਹੋੜੁ ਬੰਦੀ ਛੋੜੁ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ਦੁਖਦਾਰੀ ॥
The story of Guru Hargobind Sahib and the 52 Kings has become a long-standing trope for justice and compassion. Bandi Chhor shows Guru Hargobind leading 52 unjustly imprisoned princes to freedom, as they break away from captivity at Gwalior fort. This piece is a development of traditions in representing both devotional imagery and history. There is also careful deliberation in presenting the Guru’s youthful age, his custom-tailored chola (long tunic; which is still preserved to this day), an elevation drawing of Man Singh Palace at Gwalior Fort (the basement of which was used as a dungeon), to name a few points.
Mughal Emperor Jahangir had imprisoned the Guru at the tender age of 14 on the claim of outstanding tax payments that were imposed on Sikhs. When the Guru was to be released, after having spent two years at Gwalior Fort, he demanded that 52 unjustly imprisoned princes be released with him. Jahangir told Guru Hargobind that whoever could grab onto the tassels of his tunic could leave along with him. And so, the Guru had a special garment made, of beige and brown striped fabric, with 52 tassels; one for each prince.
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