PARO, BHUTAN ART: GARUDA AND GHOST

This appears to be a depiction of a Garuda, a mythical bird-like creature in Buddhist mythology. Garudas are often seen as protectors of the Dharma (Buddhist teachings) and are sometimes depicted as having the power to subdue serpents.
This mural likely depicts a hungry ghost, a being from Buddhist cosmology.

Key characteristics:

Thin Body: They are often depicted with emaciated bodies, large bellies, and thin necks.

Unsatisfied Desire: They are constantly hungry and thirsty but are unable to satisfy their desires, leading to perpetual suffering.

Symbolism:

Greed and Attachment: Hungry ghosts symbolize the negative consequences of greed, attachment, and excessive desire.

Impermanence: They serve as a reminder of the impermanence of material possessions and the futility of seeking happiness through them.

This mural may be intended to inspire viewers to cultivate detachment and compassion.

18december2024

THIMPHU, BHUTAN ART: MAN-BIRD

Garuda, man-bird, wings spread wide, sun beats down, scales shimmer, ancient power, protector of the Dharma, eyes of wisdom, watching over the land, Bhutan’s sky spirit, soaring high.

December 2024

THIMPHU, BHUTAN STREETART: GARUDA

This is a traditional Bhutanese mural depicting a Garuda, a mythical bird-like creature often associated with protection and power in Bhutanese, Tibetan, and Indian art.
The Garuda is revered in both Hinduism and Buddhism as a symbol of strength, freedom, and the ability to transcend obstacles.
In Bhutan, Garuda imagery is frequently seen on walls, monasteries, and public spaces as a guardian figure meant to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.
The intricate design of snakes wrapped around the Garuda signifies its dominance over nagas (serpent beings), symbolizing victory over harmful forces.
The vibrant colors and detailed patterns reflect Bhutan’s rich artistic tradition, which emphasizes spiritual protection and harmony.
I’m starting to feel that although I’m not getting much of my typical street art here, I am getting to document really traditional Bhutanese art and getting the chance to research below the layers. That is truly a gift I didn’t know I needed.
Before delving more deeply into the symbolism, I think my eyes were just registering different versions of dragons everywhere, sometimes with Dharma Wheels, sometimes without. Now, I see and feel the art with much more awareness. And by being able to do so, in turn, I feel more spiritually moved by it.

Thimphu, Bhutan 🇧🇹
29nov24

ORLANDO, FLORIDA STREET ART: GARUDA by EARL FUNK

A Garuda is a legendary bird or bird-like creature in HinduBuddhist and Jain faith. He is variously the vehicle mount (vahana) of the Hindu god Vishnu, a dharma-protector and Astasena in Buddhism, and the Yaksha of the Jain Tirthankara Shantinatha (wiki). Location: On the back of Ascension Tattoo parlor, 832 N. Mills Blvd. Artist: Earl Funk https://www.instagram.com/earlfunk/

14april2021