Here is Resh introducing Shared Consciousness Project, how it came into being, why she is doing it, the process of painting, call out for submissions and for financial support. Shared Consciousness is: A SEARCH FOR HUMAN CONNECTION THROUGH ART. It begun with this question: How can I unite the world with the colours that have helped me this far? This search began in September 2019 when I found out that my brain tumour had returned. Just the thought of it affected me drastically and made me revisit everything I have been doing "How do I connect people through their differences and discrimination?" The opportunity to connect with other humans surfaced in May 2020 when I asked individuals to share their thoughts with me and I thus began painting what easily I could empathize with. This made me rethink what my purpose as an artist could be. To create art that unites, involves, connects, and uplifts others. To make them a part of the process with me - almost like a collective healing. Here is the list of creative expressions: FINE ART: Original painting, drawing, doodles, comic, sketch, sculpture PERFORMANCE ART: For dancers, martial artist, yoga or any other movement expression, in a single still visual photograph of yourself. CRAFT: flower arrangements, collage, origami, quilling, embroidery, pottery, rock painting, face/body painting, tattoo work, etc. are acceptable WORD ART: Words, calligraphy PHOTOGRAPHY: Original compositions only. (Random) Selfies are not acceptable. WRITTEN WORK: Poetry, rap, songs, short stories or any original writing. MUSIC: Original compositions are welcome but can only be used for our videography purposes. All details can be found at the website: https://www.vajristudios.art/sharedconsciousness The crowdfunding link to support this project on MILAAP: https://milaap.org/fundraisers/support-reshma-41 Feature in The Hindu: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/reshma-valliappan-on-creating-the-canvas-of-stories-surrounding-peoples-emotions/article33910886.ece

Many wonder why am I doing this project and why do I need funds for it. Here is why... Help support this project: https://milaap.org/fundraisers/support-reshma-41

Here is what the painted narratives look like.

This canvas roll of 60 inches X 10 metres (5ft x 32ft) is dedicated to the Goddess of Creation - Kushmanda Devi who isn't revered as an important Goddess comparatively to other Goddesses. Interestingly, she is considered to be the very first being in the Universe. The Cosmic Egg aka Brahmanda - as per Hindu theoretical text describes the expansion of the universe through philosophy, cosmogony, astrology, etc. My attempt here is to visually narrate the Brahmanda Purana and thus I evoke the Goddess Kushmanda as I begin this large journey of creation called Shared Consciousness. It is important to note that every scripture, writing, translation, transcribing, art created around Hindu mythology has always been through a male narrative. As a woman, an artist and practitioner - my attempt is to change this discourse, from a woman's narrative. Afterall, the reality of the fact of an EGG responsible for CREATION is the most obvious connection to the OVUM and cycle of ovulation that which only a woman can experience and not a man.

Documentation at work of narratives received and painting being done

This video shows you the full painting process of every story submitted for Shared Consciousness. Every 60 inches x 10 metre (5ft x 32ft) area is one story split into 2 as I add my interpretation and element to it. As it is acrylic paints that is quick drying, I roll the canvas and unroll it to work on the next story. Therefore very thin layer of paint is used in order to avoid cracking and warping of the canvas. Upon completion, the roll is wrapped and stored aside. Do FOLLOW the INSTAGRAM handle to see the actual paintings: https://www.instagram.com/vajristudios/

Shared Consciousness 4th roll As participants and others will be wondering what the 'actual' process is, how am I connecting to the submissions, what is my style or work flow, am I copy-pasting or drawing as is, etc I've decided to upload these here on YouTube specifically for the Shared Consciousness Project so that is also acts a proof towards what I am attempting.