This work conjures the ferocious force of its titular subject, Kali, the Hindu goddess of destruction and female sexuality. Kali is typically depicted with multiple arms and across ever-changing forms; here, her divine multiplicity is implied by the blood-red handprints across the surface of the painting. Khakhar favored mixing the sacred and profane, often taking inspiration from everyday life in India as well as temple interiors. Here, he collaged metallic wrapping paper, used to wrap blessed souvenirs from temples and ordinary gifts alike. He also wrote in blue strokes the Hindi word for “Ram,” referencing the Hindu god and simulating the graffiti found in local bazaars.
Vital Signs: Artists and the Body, November 3–February 22, 2024
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