Art and Beauty

In India, the declaration of faith is very evident in many cases, and the Indian sense of expression through art can be just as obvious. In terms of color, Americans stick far more to what one would consider reserved schemes; paint is far more pale and bland in comparison. There are hardly ever head turning paint jobs on buildings, nor are there multi layered and patterned clothing. In India, there can be a neon green building with orange shutters and yellow accents right next to a bright pink building with purple accents and no one will bat an eye. There will be kurtas or saris, with two or three difference patterns, and overlaying colors, and they will all look amazing regardless of who is wearing them. The same goes for males and the outfits designed for them. Everything is simply so much more vibrant than it is in America, and while the average person would think the schemes and colors would clash, the fact is that the exact opposite happens. The same ideology and principles apply to food as well. In America it appears as if bland has become the normality. Ranch dressing is a common addition to many items we consume, with mayonnaise being another. In both cases the food seems to be neutralized after these dressings are applied. That is not the case in India. It does not even have to be hot, although many times it is. The fact of the matter is that every dish and meal features an assortment of spices and herbs to take your mouth on a journey. There is no nullifying the flavors swirling around in your mouth, one simply accepts the vibrancy of the situation and enjoys the endeavor. This spiced-up version of American living was a very welcomed sight and experience, and yet another reason I think that Americans should look outside of the country for inspiration in art and design, especially for food.

As an animation major, and just general lover of colorful things, India was magical. At every turn there was a new sight to behold. Their designs were intricate, patterns were carefully laid out, and their architecture was astounding. India truly has a much better palette than that of the Western world.