Dear Prudence: The Beatles
Dear Prudence captures the introspective journey of Prudence Farrow, who withdrew deeply into meditation during a retreat in India under the guidance of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Inspired by the song written by John Lennon—a gentle plea for her to reconnect with the world—I’ve sought to visually interpret both Prudence’s seclusion and the transformative message of the song.
At the center of the artwork, the white silhouette of Prudence embodies her state of withdrawal—an ethereal, contemplative presence immersed in meditation. Hovering behind her, the faint yet commanding figure of the Maharishi, adorned with a stained-glass mandala, symbolizes spiritual guidance and enlightenment. The intricate stained-glass element represents the beauty and complexity of inner exploration, suggesting a higher consciousness radiating through Prudence’s introspection.
The composition unfolds in layers of warm gold, blues, and reds, reflecting the interplay of isolation and connection. The ripples emanating beneath Prudence ground her in this dreamlike landscape, symbolizing the subtle yet ever-present pull of the external world. Around them, the textured corridors of Agra’s architecture form a bridge between solitude and reality—sunlit arches and vibrant patterns representing the world’s life, beauty, and interconnectedness. These elements contrast Prudence’s internal retreat, evoking Lennon’s invitation to “open up your eyes” and rejoin the world.
Through Dear Prudence, I’ve aimed to visually explore this delicate balance: the allure of solitude and the beauty of reconnection. It is both a meditation on the transformative power of introspection and a gentle reminder that we are, as Lennon wrote, “part of everything.”