My Heart Is Expanding
“My Heart Is Expanding” is one of the projects artist and textile designer, Melody Hesaraky developed during her residency at Kriti Gallery in Varanasi, India in 2024. Varanasi, also known as Benares, holds a significant place in the tapestry of human history as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. With a history spanning approximately 3,500 years, Varanasi embodies a rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Each ghat at the Ganga (Ganges) River has its unique significance and history, contributing to the city’s identity as a place for reflection, renewal, and divine connection.
In her own longing for creating safer spaces to learn from each other, to listen and to share, Hesaraky’s project is reflecting on the importance of human connection and the expansion of heart through dialogues and collaboration that can lead to individual growth and healing. There is beauty in our differences and strength in unity. The journey toward creating a more inclusive society begins with these intentional spaces, where every voice is valued and every story matters. In nurturing this aspiration, Hesaraky finds hope and beauty. Hope that, through collective learning and sharing, we can build a future that honors our shared humanity.
