"Rangolis of Lard Ganesha" (2012) by Kamma Gupta. Sand painting | 9th Grade

ALPHA OMEGA ARTS
By Kamma Gupta

"Rangoli of Lord Ganesha" (2012) by Kama Gupta, 9th Grade, Sand Painting

This sand painting is traditionally called Rangoli. During the festival of Diwali, people put these beautiful sand designs on their doorstep and often play in competitions of Rangoli. This sans painting depicts Lord Ganesha, god of wisdom and education. His animalistic elephant head symbolizes many difference ways to "govern" our day-to-day lives. Large ears for listening, small eyes for concentration, etc. He is depicted in the bala (child) form which is why he is often prayed to for protection and wisdom by children. Also, in many epics, he is portrayed as a mischievous, playful, and witty child, which gives many children a moral code of ethics. [Vote on FaceBook]

Indiana Interchurch Center: "2012 A&O Prize for Youth: Swinging My Feet" (Ends December 31, 2012), 1100 W. 42nd Street, IIC Gallery, Indianapolis, IN (317) 923-3617, alphaomegaarts.org