Kalu RAM: Cycle of Life
By Reuben Keehan
‘Fine Lines’ September 2021
Art-making plays an integral role in the esoteric practice of Tantra, its geometries and iconographies enabling contemplation of the interaction of cosmic forces with body and mind. Kalu Ram is considered one of the most individualistic and experimental artists to have worked in the field. His ‘Cycle of Life’ works show destructive gods punishing and devouring humans as they endure the sufferings of the Kali Yuga, the dark age in which we currently live. Bestial and giant in appearance, the mask-like figures bare horns and fangs as they interrupt the life cycle of the monochromatic humans powerless against them. The androgyny of the figures represents the principle of non-duality in Tantric thought, while written texts surrounding them express Tantric teachings.
Connected objects
Cycle of Life #01 1970s
- RAM, Kalu - Creator
Cycle of Life #02 1970s
- RAM, Kalu - Creator
Cycle of Life #05 1970s
- RAM, Kalu - Creator