Hand-painted Ganesha Wall Art on Velvet with Effect Lacquer, 70 × 90 cm
This special Ganesha wall art has been carefully hand-painted on black velvet. The combination of velvety fabric, intense colors, and elegant effect lacquer creates a fascinating depth effect. The bright tones of the lotus flower and the golden robe stand out clearly against the dark background. Depending on the light, the effect lacquer reveals a subtle shimmer that gives the image a vibrant aura without being shiny.
The depiction is based on traditional iconography: Ganesha sits calmly and upright with closed eyes and a peaceful expression. The central arrangement gives the image a harmonious calmness and strong presence.
Ganesha – the Elephant-headed God of Beginnings
Ganesha is one of the most popular deities in Hinduism. He symbolizes wisdom, new beginnings, and the overcoming of obstacles. In Bali, his figure is often encountered – whether in temples, at doorways, or in people's living environments.
A well-known legend tells how Ganesha received his elephant head: Parvati, the goddess, created a son from clay to watch over him. When Shiva, her husband, returned home and saw the boy at the entrance, he angrily struck off his head. To appease Parvati, Shiva's companions sought the head of the first living being they encountered – it was an elephant. Thus, Ganesha was brought back to life and has since represented new beginnings, knowledge, and serenity.
Today, Ganesha, with his iconic form as depicted in this wall art, reminds us that challenges often lead to new beginnings.
Spiritual Art on Velvet – A Balinese Tradition with Influences
In Bali, one encounters images of gods in various forms: carved, painted, embroidered, or woven. However, the art of painting spiritual figures on textiles did not originally come from Bali but was shaped by cultural influences from India, Java, and contact with tourists.
In the 1970s and 1980s, growing tourism brought new expressions of spiritual art to Bali. Hand-painted fabrics, banners, umbrellas, and velvet paintings emerged in studios and art markets, especially in places like Ubud, Gianyar, and Sukawati. These works often depict gods like Ganesha against a dark background with vibrant colors, effect lacquers, or even gold dust.
These artworks are not traditional temple art but a modern form of spiritual symbolism that combines craftsmanship with artistic freedom. They often come from men who are also mask carvers, umbrella makers, or decorative painters – artists with a fine brushstroke and a craft background.
Painting on velvet is particularly challenging: the fabric is uneven, absorbs color differently, and changes its appearance depending on the light. Only experienced and steady hands can create vibrant and precise lines on this material, giving the deities their special presence.
Thus, each velvet painting becomes a unique work of art – a interplay of culture, spirituality, and skillful craftsmanship.
Product Details – Ganesha Wall Art
- Material: Velvet, hand-painted and refined with effect lacquer
- Design: Portrait format with centered, color-intensive depiction
- Dimensions: approx. 70 × 90 cm
- Weight: approx. 1.6 kg
- Hanging: Back designed neutrally, no visible hanging
- Usage: Ideal for living, practice, and meditation spaces as well as entryways
- Special Features: Hand-painted on velvet with intense color effects and shimmering effect lacquer
Dealer Note
Kadek brings color into the dark with his works. His specialty is bright paintings on black fabric that almost seem to glow from within. Each piece is a real eye-catcher – with strong colors, strong contrasts, and finest craftsmanship. Therefore, he often finds it difficult to choose for the Bali Dreams Selection, as each piece is a highlight.
Handcraft Note
Each Ganesha wall art is a pure handcrafted product. The combination of velvet, color, and effect lacquer creates individual differences in texture and expression, making each piece a unique work of art.
Learn more about Balinese craftsmanship and the beauty of small imperfections here.
