About Our Tradition

For those who are interested in further details on the subject matter discussed,
we have inserted links to some explanations.

In the following interview, Jagattarini talks about the link between her artwork and the spiritual and cultural tradition of India:

Jagattarini dasi: I find myself struggling to explain the subject matter of my art, for want of common points of reference.

Interviewer: I understand that your artwork goes further than just being an expression of creative imagination.


J: Definitely. Personally I’m not interested in creating something from my imagination, rather I view the hours and hours of hard work that have gone into these miniature exhibits are a part of my devotional meditation.

I: Can you elaborate?

J: Well, when I was young, I was inclined towards art and acting, and after coming in touch with the Hare Krishna movement, I became very interested in the stories from the Srimad Bhagavatam, and other scriptures in our line. So quite quickly I found myself busy making puppets, staging puppet shows, or directing the children in the community where I was living in performing small dramas enacting these stories.

Basically, “Krishna”, and “Gopinatha” are names for the Supreme Lord in His different features. I mean to say that God has a personality, and His own divine realm where He resides. Knowledge of that region comes down through a chain of masters and disciples to the present day.

Somehow I came in touch with Srila Prabhupada when I was young, and by his training I have chosen to dedicate my time, energy and ability to presenting these transcendental stories in the form of art and other media.


I: Is scriptural authenticity in your presentations important to you, or do you maintain room for freedom of expression?

J: Both authenticity and freedom of expression are present at the same time. There are many essential details in the stories that I take care to keep intact, but individual expression is always there, even whilst maintaining integrity to the subject matter.

 
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