My Taj Mahal

Indian culture taught us about a prince whose affection and devotion to his wife made him create the ultimate icon of love: The Taj Mahal - often dubbed as one of the great wonders of mankind, and rightfully so. After all, who would make such an immaculate and impeccable edifice to demonstrate his love?

In a humbler, and, of course, much lesser known way, I created and finished my own Taj Mahal for my wife, whom I have taken for granted many times, and whose love for me now is in question. Nevertheless, I have toiled and managed to complete a 7x5 foot piece, which is nowhere near as flawless as the Taj, but just as tedious and painstaking to do as well.

The piece highlights all media: watercolor, pen & ink, gouache, acrylic, and pencil. The piece will always be a constant work in progress because there are always things I can add to it, but chose instead to declare it, 'finished' as the April 30 exhibit deadline looms. But to use all the media on it is a testament to my devotion to my wife, who may not believe that she is the one most important reason why I have not left this world yet.

Using all media symbolically means using all the means and skill to serve and love her.

The Taj was never intended to wash away all the wrongs I have done (those are like paint stains on my white shirts that may fade, but will stay permanently), however, it goes to atone to some degree, the misplaced priorities I have made in the past, and hopefully foretells what is to follow in the future, if there is one.

At least for now, I can meet my maker and be rid of the remaining demons in my mind.