**OFFSITE LOCATION** This program will be presented at the Community Center, 39 Marrett Road, Lexington

Join award-winning artist Raksha Soni for a Madhubani art workshop focused on making a Deeya.

Madhubani art is vibrant and intricate form of painting characterized by its bold colors, detailed patterns, and rich symbolism. It is an ancient style of hand painting that survived through the generations. It originated from the Mithila region of Bihar, India. The themes and elements are inspired by festivals, rituals, nature, households, communities and mythology in Indian culture. In Madhubani paintings, the Deeya represents the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, embodying hope and positivity.

Registration is required.

About our instructor:

Raksha Soni is a versatile visual artist and educator who grew up in Rajasthan, India. She is prolific in her approach to painting and has had over a couple of dozen exhibitions at the Boston City Hall, Rhode Island State Council, Jose Mateo Ballet Theater, Lowell Folk Festival, Fitchburg Art Museum, Children’s Museum, Worcester Art Museum, Lowell City Hall, Brush Gallery, Art League of Lowell, Gallery Z, Chelmsford Art Society, Newton Public Library, Cary Memorial Library and many others, where she has showcased her signature style; from intricate Madhubani and Kalamkari Indian folk art paintings to lush, opulent landscapes that capture the nostalgia and emotion of India. Her interest and devotion to Indian traditional art and Hindu Mythology has influenced her work and there is a story behind every folk-art painting.

Along with furthering her own journey as an artist, she teaches young kids and adults to help them express and harness their creativity and find their artistic voice. She is determined to preserve and promote these traditional art forms from India, and founded Brush & Paisley with the aim to encourage and nurture these and pass the knowledge and heritage to the new generation.

She was nominated for India New England Women of the year 2019, and was awarded Artist of the year award.  She received the “Community Hero” award by South Asian News Lokvani. She has been published in Northshore Magazine, Lowell Sun, India New England News, Women Who Win and Lokvani.

Website: https://brushandpaisley.wixsite.com/home/

Presented in partnership with Indian Americans of Lexington (IAL).

This program is made possible by the generous donors to the Cary Library Foundation.