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Warli Painting

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Originating in the state of Maharashtra, Warli painting stands as the most excellent example of folk painting in India. This style of tribal painting was started in the early 10th century AD, mostly by the tribal group from the North Sahyadri Range in Maharashtra. The art is still practiced today in cities such as Dahanu , Jawhar, Talasari , Mokhada , Palghar, and Vikramgad in the Palghar district. Other examples of magnificent tribal artworks include Madhubani painting of Bihar, Tanjore painting of Tamil Nadu, Pattachitra painting of Orissa, Kalamkari painting of Andhra Pradesh, Gond painting of Madhya Pradesh, and so on. History of Warli Painting Even though this style of art dates centuries back, it was not until the 1970s that Warli Painting was recognized. The Warli tribe rejects contemporary culture and centers their art around the elements of nature. They were much dependent on farming for their source of food. Through their art, the tribe upheld their belief and respect for the...

Kalamkari Painting- A True Saga of Craftsmanship

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India   is a country with lots of versatility. It is infused with rich cultural and traditional heritage. Various forms of arts are prevalent which make India distinctive in its own way.  And Kalamkari painting is one such traditional art form of India which has got immense popularity. The word  ‘KALAMKARI’  emerged from the Persian words  QALAM  (pen) and  KARI  (craftsmanship).  The process involves mainly painting natural dyes on fabrics like silk or cotton with the help of a ‘ kalam’  or a bamboo pen. This exquisite art form is very much prominent in Andhra Pradesh. There are mainly two varieties of styles – the  Srikalahasti style  and the  Machilipatnam style . The  Srikalahasti style  is entirely handwork done with the  ‘kalam’  or pen and is found in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. And Machilipatnam style requires vegetable-dyed block-painting on the fabric and can be traced in the city...

Bhojpuri Painting

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India, the land of varied cultures and heritages, houses various painting styles and techniques. Bhojpuri painting is one such folk painting style that has flourished in the Bhojpur - Purvanchal region of India comprising states like Bihar, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Northwestern Jharkhand thousands of years ago and it is one of the most popular paintings in these areas. History of the Art Historically, it is assumed that this art form evolved around 1300 BC, even before the emergence of Emperor Ashoka. Some facts also conclude that this art form was popularized during the reign of Emperor Ashoka. This painting style is a type of wall painting primarily done on temple walls or on walls of the rooms of newly married couples and the main motifs are that of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Although in recent times motifs of natural objects and life and struggles of village people are also depicted to make the painting more acceptable among the common people and bring the style close ...

Godna Painting- The Incredible Story of Tattoo Art

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India is a country of diversity rich in art and culture. The combination of traditions and rich culture make India unique in its own way. The unique art forms have allowed this country to stand apart when it comes to cultural heritage.  Godna Art is one of the most ancient art forms of India mainly practiced by the tribe ORAON of CHHATTISGARH state. This unique art form is mainly done on the bodies of the women with TATTOOS called “ GODNA ” to adorn their bodies. It is basically permanent ornamentation of the body. They paint three-lined tattoos on their forehead. In this art form agility, patience and charming effect are essential. Currently, this primitive art form is widely done by the women of the Jamgala village in Lakhanpur Block of SARGUJA of CHHATTISGARH district and also in RAIGARH. An affluent culture of Godna paintingcan also be observed in the BASTAR region of CHHATTISGARH . This form of tattooing or GODNA art can also be traced in the state of MADHYA PRADESH am...

Sarees of India

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A saree can convert a lady into an artist’s muse , is rightly said by several eminent designers. This six yard of sheer elegance has its origin in the Indus Valley Civilisation, which came into being in North-West India during 2800–1800 BC. Indian women have been illustrating a huge variety of saree draping styles, starting from Nivi style of Deccan to Atpoure style of Bengal. Considered as a cultural icon, the saree is worn with a fitted bodice and a petticoat, which is generally fabricated from a soft and breathable material, like cotton.  How did this Name Originate? The Hindustani word ‘ Saree’  is derived from the Sanskrit word  ‘Sati ’ and Pali word ‘ Sadi ’, which means a 'strip of cloth'. Gradually, with the development of modern Indian languages, the word ‘Saree’ came into form. In ancient Sanskrit Literature, the word 'Sattika' has been mentioned to describe women’s attire. Even in  Jatakas , we can find several mentions and descriptions of the attire whi...

Aipan Painting

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Aipan art is a folk art that originated in the Kumaoni districts of Uttarakhand. It is a ritualistic art done on special occasions mainly by Kumaoni women on the walls and floors of the houses. This artform has immense religious, social, and cultural importance and the people of this region that these are sacred paintings that will eradicate evil and bring good luck. What is Aipan Art? The word 'Aipan' is derived from the Sanskrit word Lepana which means 'plaster' . It is also a derivative of the word 'Arpan', which means 'to dedicate' . Another common word used to describe it is 'Likhai' means Writing as fingers are directly used to draw the patterns. This art originated and flourished during the reign of the Chand Dynasty in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Till now it is practiced in every household and the patterns, designs and motifs reflect various beliefs of the community and different natural aspects. Materials Required and Techniq...

Applique Craft Work Of India

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The Applique Craft is a unique sewing technique where the fabric patches are layered upon a foundation fabric to finally stitch in the same place with the help of a machine or by hand where the raw edges are turned or covered by decorative stitching. Something that stayed skiing with the kings of India irrespective of the situations, was the luxury that can be observed in the fine craftsmanship. Origin and History The history of Applique Craft in India can be traced back to the earlier times in the northern regions of Gujarat, which can be identified with the help of their style of fabrication, composition, patterns, and similar others. The Kathis, Mahajans, the Nomad camel herders, were the prominent producers of applique crafts in the region.  Like patchwork, applique craftwork is the method of constructing or embroidering quilts. This craft is used around the globe to design banners, display items, or on clothes.  How Are The Applique Crafts Made?  The traditional appl...