Each grain of sand is the crystallized expression of eons. It brings a unique history of its own with the river it accompanies on in its long journey to the sea. It is the slow, steady work of Mother Earth left behind on the shores of her waters around the world.

When this sand is taken from the river bank and put onto a canvas, it comes to life. Sand paintings molded into celestial and mythic forms become reflections of the Divine. It can infuse its surroundings with harmony, joy and inspiration. From something time-bound and ordinary, something timeless and sacred is created.

Much of the sand for my paintings is taken from the banks of the holy Yamuna River in India which has its origin in the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Some of the sand is also taken from the shores of local lakes. Each type of sand reflects the unique signature of its location and environment...

I hope you feel the same joy from these paintings as I had in creating them.

With blessings and best wishes,

Sudha Upadhyay