April

This artwork titled 'All Hands on Deck' shows family members of all ages in the courtyard of their home in England busily preparing food and tidying up in preparation for a wedding. The theme is inspired by what in accordance with Sikh teachings our father instilled in us about the importance of family as a training ground for learning how to give and take, and for cultivating the qualities of mutual respect and responsibility which (to use his words) "when carried out into the wider community, help build a more stable and caring society".

As a depiction of domestic harmony which shows everyone enthusiastically pulling together in order to get the job done, this artwork also highlights the value which Sikhism places on community spirit and working for the common good, over self-serving interests and selfish individualism. Interpreted in this context, the artwork reflects what Sikhism emphasises about the life of the householder (and taking an active role in society) being a path to spiritual development.