Our Story

Welcome to Jay Arts, a place where creativity, exceptional craftsmanship, and rich cultural heritage unite to fuel an unstoppable passion for art. We invite you to transform your artistic dreams into reality.

I—Jay, founded Jay Arts in 2017 in Northern Virginia, USA, driven by a deep appreciation for art, culture, and spirituality. Born and raised in the vibrant heart of South India, I was immersed in a world where culture, devotion, and artistry intertwined seamlessly. Growing up, I witnessed the mesmerizing beauty of diverse traditions, the sacred power of rituals, and the soul-stirring craftsmanship of sculptures that breathed life into India’s rich heritage. Prayer has always been my sanctuary, a guiding light through every twist and turn of life, even to this day.

When I moved to the U.S. in 2000, my devotion to idol worship intensified in ways I never imagined. It wasn’t just about only Hindu statues; something magnetic and irresistible pulled me toward the wisdom of Buddhism, and the immense beauty of Buddha statues. The presence of Buddha statues resonated with me on a profound level, stirring a passion that only grew stronger with time. Finding my first Buddha statue was a moment of pure joy—It brought a sense of peace into my home and filled my heart with a deep sense of purpose. To this day, I truly cherish my Buddha.

What began as a simple act of curating idols for personal devotion soon became an insatiable passion. The more I collected—from the smallest figurines to large, intricate sculptures—the more I realized this was more than just a hobby; it was a calling. This profound love for sacred art ignited the birth of Jay Arts—a venture that is not just a business, but an extension of my soul. Today, Jay Arts stands as a testament to my unwavering devotion, where spirituality and artistry merge into something truly inseparable.

At Jay Arts, we specialize in handcrafted sculptures and high-quality art pieces sourced directly from skilled artists in India and Southeast Asia. We make unique, intricate wood carvings created from our own highly detailed computer models. This technique, known as relief carving, uses digital designs to guide the cutting tool, allowing for precise carving or engraving of three-dimensional objects from carefully prepared blocks of wood. The result is a smooth, high-quality finish that lasts a lifetime. These exclusive artworks reflect the beauty of natural materials, traditional techniques, and modern design.

I strongly believe in the transformative power of art to inspire, enrich, and elevate lives. This belief fuels my commitment to supporting artisans worldwide, fostering sustainable partnerships, and ensuring their craftsmanship receives the recognition it deserves. I take immense pride in the dedication of our artists and honor the incredible effort they invest in their work.

Exceptional customer service is at the core of everything we do. Whether you are an art collector, a home décor enthusiast, or in search of a meaningful gift, we are dedicated to providing you with a seamless and enriching buying experience.

Connecting with Essence—How I Select Each Statue

Selecting a statue is a deeply personal process for me. I connect with the essence of the piece—the expression on its face, its posture, and the fine details. Every curve, edge, and shape shapes the statue’s character, evoking emotions that resonate with the observer. Each statue stand out for their unique blend of symbolism, historical significance, and the artist's craftsmanship, transforming raw materials into a creation that embodies both beauty and meaning. I carefully select each statue, appreciating its aesthetic value and ensuring it harmonizes with the space and the collector's personal taste.

Each statue is more than just a work of art; it is crafted with passion and intent. Discover a piece that deeply connects with the essence of your soul.
— Jay, Founder, Jay Arts.

 

Eternal Embrace—A Journey of Divine Revelation: Sharing my unforgettable moments

To me, the expression of worship is not a mere ritual—it is the very essence of my being. Each visit to the temple, every moment spent in the sanctum, fills my heart with indescribable peace. But there was one experience that left an everlasting imprint on my soul—something so profound that I could never have imagined it.

After many years, I felt an undeniable divine calling, and my visit to the Venkateswara temple in North Carolina became a turning point in my spiritual journey. As I stood in the sanctum, time seemed to stand still. I didn’t want to leave—I couldn’t. My eyes welled up as waves of emotions surged through me, filling my mind with thoughts of purpose, devotion, and the silent, yet powerful, presence of the Divine. It was as if He was speaking directly to me, guiding me towards a deeper understanding of my path.

Sensing my emotions, the priest with kindness and understanding stood before me. At that moment, he was more than a priest—he stood before me as a guru imparting wisdom, life teachings, and moral values that resonated deep within my soul. As he spoke, his words felt like they were not his own, but those of the Divine Himself, flowing through him to reach me. Every word carried a message, a purpose, a revelation that I was meant to receive.

He then guided me to the sanctum of Goddess Padmavati, where he placed a handful of sacred kumkum in my hands. Then, he took me to the main sanctum and to my utter amazement, offered me large blocks of camphor— the very same camphor that had already graced Perumal’s forehead as the sacred Namam, a cherished ritual performed every Saturday in the temple. As I received this, I was overwhelmed with a sense of divine connection, my soul trembling with sheer gratitude, a feeling of being embraced by the Divine Himself.

As I journeyed back home, the sacred scent of camphor lingered in my hands and in my soul, making me feel as though I was still standing before Him in the sanctum. That fragrance wasn’t just a scent—it was a reminder, a blessing, a whisper from the Divine that would stay with me forever.

Two other places left a profound and lasting impact on me—Senso-ji Buddhist Temple and Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine in Tokyo.

It was a feeling unlike any other—an experience to be cherished forever, a connection beyond words. I visited Senso-ji in the early morning hours, and the serenity of the moment was overwhelming. Standing in the presence of such history and devotion, I felt fortunate to be there. The temple honors Kannon, the Japanese name for Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. Its breathtaking architecture and the sacred atmosphere made for an unforgettable experience—one that will stay with me always.

Senso-ji Buddhist Temple - Asakusa, Japan

Then, there was Meiji Jingu, a tranquil haven surrounded by towering trees, a sacred space as if nature itself is alive with the divine presence. The Shinto belief that kami, or spirits, inhabit the natural world, that seemed so palpable here, adding to the peace that enveloped me. I even bought my first hamaya, an arrow symbolizing good fortune, as a personal memento of this sacred place.

Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine - Shibuya, Japan

There's an undeniable pull to these places—something almost magical that keeps calling me back. The energy is irresistible, wrapping me in a sense of peace and spiritual grounding I can’t quite explain. I know I'll return someday, drawn by the deep connection I felt, and eager to experience it all over again.

I wholeheartedly believe that Jay Arts is not just a journey but a divine blessing; every day fills my heart with profound joy and satisfaction, igniting an unwavering passion and a deep sense of purpose within me.

— Jay, Founder, Jay Arts.