Commentary by Ron C. Moss, Haiga Editor

Haiga Showcase: Lakshmi Iyer

Lakshmi Iyeri’s work, a mix of photographs and digital renderings, feels boundless in her use of color, and her haiku and senryu feel deeply personal. “Every photos speaks of the experiences I go through,” she says, “and the words resonate the thoughts of my journey.” In her haiga, she shares her reflections of her place and time in the world.

With “mountain viewing” we see impressionistic cloud shapes, the people only silhouettes against the skyline. There’s a warm and supportive intention in the poem, and a touch of mystery for us to ponder.

The hand in “full moon hiding” uses the black background to striking effect, alluding to both the hidden moon and the woman’s veil. The image of the hand has a cultural feel and, in its lines and circles, connects with both the veil and the moon..

A sacred cow looks very much at home in “after the rain.” The fallen leaves in the alleyway connect to the poem; we wonder what the cow has experienced on her travels, an what sights and sounds surround her.

In “leaning,” the lovely swaying bamboo grove brings a feeling of movement and fresh air. The clever juxtaposition of “family ties” with the binding abilities of the bamboo completes this haiga.

About the Artist

Writing a wordless poem has been Lakshmi Iyer’s passion since 2017, but she also loves snapping her shutter lens on and off. She has described her photos as guides connecting her to the inner self. Her haiku, senryu, tanka, haibun have found their home in many journals.