Tarsem’s Prayer Ceremony

Such an honour to paint this family portrait at the prayer ceremony celebrating Tarsem’s 70th birthday at Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara, Derby.

This piece is painted from the perspective of the Granthi, reading from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji — the living embodiment of the ten Sikh Gurus — placing us, the viewer, in that sacred viewpoint.

The Gurmukhi text shown are extracts from the Shabad on Ang 749 (by Guru Arjan Dev Ji). Its message speaks of divine will and grace:
“If it pleases You, You cause us to chant Your Name. The peace You give is what we receive.”
 “When You stand over our heads, O Lord and Master, how can we suffer in pain?” …a beautiful reminder of protection, surrender and inner peace.

I loved creating this alternative way of capturing a moment. Coupled with the warmth of this beautiful family and their friends, I left Derby with such a positive feeling.