As part of the Rama Navami celebrations at Bhaktivedanta Manor this weekend, local Watford MP and artist Dean Russell was delighted to present a gift of his original painting of ex-Beatle George Harrison and Philosopher and Spiritual Leader, Swami Prabhupada.
Last year was the 40th anniversary of The Beatles legend George Harrison purchasing the Manor, which has received millions of visitors and worshippers over the decades since. It is believed the painting is the first to be officially painted for the Manor of George Harrison and Swami Prabhupada together.
The painting, entitled ‘Peace in the Garden’ was unveiled officially at the event and was widely praised by attendees for the loving depiction of both George Harrison and Swami Prabhupada. The original artwork is acrylic with gold leaf on canvas board and will be framed and put on official display later this year.
Temple President of Bhaktivedanta Manor, Her Grace Visakha DasI said, ‘Dean Russell MP delighted dignitaries and thousands of guests at Bhaktivedanta Manor on Sunday when he unveiled his painting of the founder of the Hare Krishna movement standing next to George Harrison of the Beatles. Mr Russell, an accomplished self-taught artist, is a long time Beatle fan and is also deeply appreciative of Bhaktivedanta Manor and its many contributions to the community. He offered his painting to the Manor as an expression of the joy that emanates from Srila Prabhupada and his profound spiritual teachings’.
Dean said, ‘It was an absolute privilege and pleasure to attend Rama Navami and to present my painting. The painting took me over a year to complete when I had rare moments of spare time. I was really overwhelmed and moved by the reaction from attendees and the wider community when it was unveiled. The use of colour and gold leaf was intended to represent the celebration of light and joy when visiting the Manor. It was an honour to be given permission to be the first, as far as I am aware, to paint a representation of Swami Prabhupada and George Harrison together at Bhaktivedanta Manor. The painting was to celebrate the 40th anniversary last year of George Harrison purchasing the Manor, an important part of our local heritage. I hope the artwork will bring as much pleasure to everyone who views the painting as it has been to paint the artwork.’
ENDS
Notes to editors
Dean Russell, MP for Watford has previously painted other notable artworks including a portrait of Sir Captain Tom Moore which was auctioned for the Watford General Raise charity which is on display in the hospital and a portrait of Watford Football Legend Luther Blissett OBE which was auctioned for good causes and was gifted to the Watford Museum.
Dean is also the Chairman of the Speakers Works of Arts Advisory Committee in Parliament.
Rama Navami (Sunday Festival) took place over two days with many events including performances by Krisna Avani Children, a procession, a drama by junior Bhaktivedanta Players and a live debate on Lord Rama by the School of Bhakti.
The temple offers an enlightening experience with tours of the shrine, gardens and farmlands and is open all year round to visitors and students. Here you can also see the rooms of the famous Hare Krishna guru Srila Prabhupada, to whom George Harrison gifted this iconic mock Tudor mansion. Visitors are invited to participate in inspirational talks, yoga classes, mantra meditation, vegetarian cooking classes and various retreats where you can feel at peace.
