Mother of All

This piece of work represents the Mother Earth and mother of all, connected to soil and garden. The main embroidery used is the 'Kantha' stitch or the running stitch that is conventional to West Bengal in India. I find the Kantha stitch very soothing and less demanding.

It is almost meditative to follow the steps of kantha and with time and consistency it creates a bigger beautiful picture. Many women in my sewing group enjoy it as it gives them an opportunity to slow down and be mindful.

The most important relationship to me is that of a mother and her children. It is a rather unique bond whether they are linked biologically or not. There are different definitions of motherhood and the key is the fostering nature.

Coming from Indian culture, we are always taught to sacrifice for, and put the child first. This might not be the best for the mother at times...but it is very deep rooted in me. The parent is also like a gardener tending to its garden and creating an environment for the garden to flourish. Eventually they have to let go... Motherhood teaches selflessness and letting go without expectations. My artwork shows the mother holding the child, making sure that she will be safe, but ready to let go, although she is a young child. Keeping the trust that things will turn out well, just like the decision we take when we hope. Hope is a decision and needs to be actively lived-out on a daily basis. The Mother Earth sits back with all her experiences and encourages us to hope. The child sitting on her lap symbolizes taking that hope forward.