Heart House
Heart House
The heart is the universal symbol for human emotion, which is why notions of closeness and vulnerability are expressed through this trope. Anything or anyone we adore is often referred to as “close to the heart.” One’s home is the most intimate built space that can be experienced, and Heart House is an architectural and sculptural allegory for this feeling of belonging. Each space in the house is a metaphor for the different members of the human heart, reflecting their functions and roles in oxygenating and recharging blood. The connectivity between the rooms of the house and their circulation paths are also akin to the movement of a blood molecule through the oxygenation process. This network generates a labyrinth of unique spaces, with both private nooks and expansive moments.
The heart is the universal symbol for human emotion, which is why notions of closeness and vulnerability are expressed through this trope. Anything or anyone we adore is often referred to as “close to the heart.” One’s home is the most intimate built space that can be experienced, and Heart House is an architectural and sculptural allegory for this feeling of belonging. Each space in the house is a metaphor for the different members of the human heart, reflecting their functions and roles in oxygenating and recharging blood. The connectivity between the rooms of the house and their circulation paths are also akin to the movement of a blood molecule through the oxygenation process. This network generates a labyrinth of unique spaces, with both private nooks and expansive moments.
Nīlā's Janamsākhī 2024
quadriptych: gouache on paper, 15" x 15" (individual)
Drawing inspiration from Guru Gobind Singh’s legendary blue horse Nīlā (pronounced nee-laa), this quadriptych serves as a Sikh reimagining, exploring the origin story (janamsākhī) of this beloved companion. The Guru's hawk (Bāz) features as a secondary character, supporting the story through friendship. Though historical records of Nīlā are limited, the tales surrounding this horse are vivid in Sikh oral tradition, enriching the cultural heritage with their vibrancy. Stories and vārs (narrative ballads) about the Nīlā celebrate the profound bond between the Guru and his devoted steed.
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Nīlā, the blue roan horse, was born from the sky. When lightning split the clouds with a golden blaze, he took shape and descended to earth.
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On this unfamiliar land, he searched for something to reflect his own hue. He found blue waters and swam, enveloped in the colour, as if in the warmth of a blanket.
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Unsettled on land, Nīlā sought out Bāz, the hawk, and asked if he could soar to the sky and bring the moon down, offering the comfort of something known.
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Bāz returned with the moon, and Nīlā finally found a moment of peace. Bāz’s act of kindness formed a quiet bond between the two of them.
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