The original work was created in 1997 as part of the Yogini series by Gogi Saroj Pal, one of India’s foremost feminist artists, born in 1945. Gogi began her art studies in rural Rajasthan, continuing in Lucknow and then in Delhi, where she also taught and made her home. Those familiar with her domestic life attest to her adherence to core Indian values while simultaneously challenging traditional views about women’s education and roles. Her art engages with conventional iconographies, adapting and reinventing them for new purposes. Through her works, images of goddesses like Kali and idealized female figures, known as Nayikas, are presented not in their habitual forms but in new guises that confound established art historical narratives and confront contemporary notions of Indian womanhood.
In her serigraphs, a raw and natural feel is maintained, allowing viewers to sense the “spontaneous approach” inherent in the silk-screen medium. Upon first viewing her work, one is struck by the powerful eyes of the lady and the lion, evoking a sense of drama that could not be achieved with a single color. The artist layers colors meticulously, experimenting beyond conventional formats to create depth and richness. The use of varying brush thicknesses adds complexity, with the raw brushwork enhancing the subject matter. The visible brush strokes invite viewers to appreciate each detail, from the lion’s body to the outlines throughout the composition. This attention to detail, paired with the medium of gouache, makes the textures almost tangible.
Both works have received numerous national and international accolades. Tragically, Gogi Saroj Pal passed away in 2024, leaving behind an extensive body of work that powerfully represents women and honors their rightful place in society as embodiments of Shakti—the sacred feminine force. Her art depicts the power and importance of women in Indian culture, showcasing simplicity and strength that exemplify the expertise of this remarkable artist.
Her collection evokes Veera Rasa as it celebrates Gogi Saroj Pal’s defiance against traditional norms and her representation of women as powerful and autonomous figures.
Photos and Text © Chaitya Dhanvi Shah
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