Faith in Lines: My Art and Goddess Lakshmi
For me, art is not just about lines and colors. It is a form of meditation, a language of the soul and a way to capture emotions that cannot always be expressed in words. When I created this sketch of Goddess Lakshmi, it was not just a portrait of a deity but a reflection of the eternal strength, beauty and resilience that lives within women across all ages.
In Indian tradition, Goddess Lakshmi is revered as the goddess of wealth, prosperity and beauty. She is often depicted sitting gracefully on a lotus flower, radiating peace and abundance. The lotus itself is a powerful symbol, it blooms in muddy waters yet remains untouched by impurity. To me, this symbolizes the resilience of women who, despite struggles, continue to radiate beauty, grace and purity. In every home, every society and every era, a woman has been the
guiding light, the nurturing force and the balance that holds everything together. In truth, every woman is the “Lakshmi” of her home, the embodiment of harmony and abundance.
The Psychology of Colors in the Artwork
Colors play a deeper role in art than just making it visually appealing. They touch the subconscious, stir emotions and silently communicate powerful messages. In this sketch, I consciously used a palette that carries symbolic Meaning.
Red, seen in the lips and the bindi (Red dot), represents strength, passion and courage. It is the color of shakti, the energy that drives life itself. It also reminds us of sacrifice, the hidden labor of women that often goes unnoticed but sustains entire families.
Pink, in the lotus, signifies compassion, nurturing and love. It is the soft strength that heals and unites. A woman’s love, like the lotus, is capable of bringing light even in difficult surroundings.
Green symbolizes growth, renewal and balance. In the jewelry and patterns, it reflects the grounding energy women bring into homes, helping families grow in harmony.
Blue stands for calmness, patience and wisdom. A woman may face storms, yet She often becomes the calm center of the family’s universe.
Black ink lines, which form the foundation of the sketch, symbolize resilience, discipline, and structure. They remind us that beauty is not just in colors, but also in the foundation of patience and effort.
Each of these colors, when combined, creates a balance between power and softness, energy and calmness, individuality and collectiveness. This balance mirrors the essence of Goddess Lakshmi and, by extension, every woman.
The Symbolism of Ornaments and Expressions
When I worked on the crown and jewelry, I realized they were not just
decorations but symbols of patience and resilience. Jewelry in Indian culture often represents tradition, continuity and legacy, qualities that women carry proudly through generations. The intricate designs in the crown reflect the layers of responsibility women hold. Despite the weight of expectations, they continue to shine with grace.
The eyes were perhaps the most important part for me. I wanted to capture serenity in them, a calmness that reassures rather than intimidates. Her gentle smile reflects kindness and hope, reminding me of countless women who, despite burdens, spread positivity. It is this quiet smile that holds families together, restores balance in society, and brings peace to chaos.
Women as the Living Lakshmi
History is filled with examples where the balance of society was restored through women’s strength. Whether it was in mythological tales, freedom struggles, or present-day stories of working mothers and change-makers, women have always embodied resilience. Goddess Lakshmi’s form reminds us that true prosperity is not just measured in wealth or material success. It comes from inner peace, patience, and harmony, the qualities women embody every
day.
In today’s world, where modernization often pushes us away from tradition, art becomes a bridge. Through this sketch, I wanted to merge the timeless image of Lakshmi with the spirit of the modern woman. Just as Lakshmi sits on a lotus, today’s women bloom in challenging circumstances, be it managing homes, careers, or personal struggles. They are proof that grace and strength can coexist.
Art has the power to heal, to inspire, and to remind us of who we are. For me, this sketch is more than an artwork. It is a reminder that divinity exists not only in temples but also in every woman, in every act of love, patience, and resilience.
Art is faith made visible. It carries emotions, traditions, and untold stories across generations. Through this sketch of Goddess Lakshmi, I wanted to honor not only the goddess herself but also every woman who embodies her spirit in daily life.
✍️ Swati Suman...