Caroline Belanger
One Thousand Full Moons, 2022
Mixed media on canvas
30 x 30 x 2 in.
(76.2 x 76.2x 5.1 cm)

This Bloom is made of one thousand hand painted and cut paper circles.

I made this very special piece for a dear family friend upon celebrating his 80th birthday. I wanted to make something special for this distinguished Indian gentleman that had been one of my father’s closest friends and continues to watch over my family. We have had the honor to participate in so many celebrations and immerse ourselves in their culture.

In the Hindu tradition, a person who has been graced to have seen one thousand full moons is blessed to perform Sahasra purna chandrodayam celebrations with his loved ones and well wishers. Sahasra purna chandrodayam is also known as Sathabhishekam. The celebrations and rituals are performed approximately 3 months before the 81st birthday.