Heartbreaking and uplifting — a sharp contrast that can only describe traveling through India. The first place to steal my heart was the Taj Mahal. Its immense grandeur and intricate detail inspired a collective gasp at first sight. (see paintings "Taj and The Boys.")

Contrary to the Taj is the tiny and remote village of Rohet Gahr — a dwelling of natural beauty against a backdrop of filth and poverty. As we climbed off the bus my heart swelled, my eyes filled with tears. So many children grabbing at us, arms outstretched as flies buzzed angrily around their dung-caked feet. Explosions of color so bright and pure came from every direction: the old woman draped in ultramarine blue and hot pink, sitting in the red dirt in front of a poster that said "Ski Switzerland" (see painting "Ski Switzerland"); the teenaged girl in a candy apple red sari, snow white bracelets all the way up her arms signaling her recent engagement (see painting "Vex Belle") to name a few.

In a word, India is complex. It's a land teeming with humanity, energy and exquisite color.  

I found a dignity and grace etched in the faces of its people. I was humbled and inspired by their pride and ageless wisdom.