Page 143 - Design Thinking C11

Abstraction, Symbols, and Storytelling
What do we mean by abstraction or an abstract idea? An abstract idea is something that does not have
a fixed physical shape or form. It cannot be seen or touched like any object, for example, a chair or a
tree. Instead, it is a formless thought—an idea that lives in the mind of the artist or designer. Examples of
abstract ideas include cosmic order, cyclical time, wisdom, grace, and abundance. These ideas are deeply
meaningful but invisible. They don’t come with a specific image, but they can be expressed using symbols,
metaphors, and stories.
Abstraction in Indian art is the process of giving form to the formless. For example, temples in India are not
just built as places of worship, but as representations of the universe. According to the story of the Purusha,
the cosmic being, different parts of his body became different parts of the universe. His navel became the
center of the universe. This idea influenced temple design, where the Garbhagriha (sanctum) is placed at
the center, representing the navel. Other parts of the temple represent body parts like the mouth (doorway),
arms (side projections), and feet (outer edges). In this way, a formless idea like cosmic creation takes on a
physical shape through design.

This story of Purusha is a powerful example of how abstractions become relatable when told as stories. The
story didn’t just shape temples, but also inspired classical Indian dance, sculpture, and theatre. A temple is
not just a structure—it is a narrative in stone.
To communicate these abstract ideas, artists used symbols. A symbol is a simple image that stands for a
deeper meaning. Some commonly used Indian symbols include:
• Lotus = Purity

• Fish = Abundance
• Circle = Time or infinity
• Fire = Energy or transformation

These symbols are not just decorative. They are visual metaphors—ways to represent complex ideas in a
simple way. Artists across India used different stories and regional styles, but they often shared a common
design grammar through these symbols.

Example: A temple might include a chakra (wheel) to represent time and movement. It might also use a
vertical pillar (Stambha) to show a connection between the Earth and the sky.

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