Silk Scarves and the Gayatri Mantra

The Silk Scarves are based on a recent painting series which I started in 2015. Each of the 108 paintings have been completed while listening to the chant, the Gayatri Mantra*. The paintings are 12" x 12", acrylic and glazing on wood panel.

In contrast, the scarves are digitally printed on a very lightweight silk chiffon. They each focus on a section of a painting. The design printed on silk brings forward the subtle and soft transitions of color and emotion in a way I had never imagined. Any textures and marks that are in the original painting become a unique element in the scarf. 

I was inspired by the idea of wrapping oneself in words of quiet and centeredness from a poem I heard by the 16th century mystic poet, Mirabai, “Dye My Shawl Your Own Color”.  I invite you to wrap yourselves and your loved ones in this gift of sound, image and texture.

I am also offering Archival Art Prints of a selection of the Gayatri Mantra Series paintings. See also the current paintings.

Blessings to all!

Airiel Mulvaney

*The Gayatri Mantra is from the Rg Veda, which is said to be the oldest written word on Earth.

Aum
Bur buvah svaha
Tat savitur vareniyam
Bhargo devasya dhimahi
Dhiyo yo nah prachodhayat
Aum
       —Brahmashri Vishwamitra

Translation:*

Om
The terrestrial, celestial, and that between, are offered
That All Creating One, Most Venerated
We meditate upon the Self—luminous radiance of the Divine
Inspiring our actions, properties and intellect
Om

*English Translation by Elizabeth A. Hin