Tag: contemporary art

When God Comes to Visit…

This is not a blog about any supernatural powers, but about the ancient Indian art called Phad which originated in the colorful region of Rajasthan hundreds of years ago. This is perhaps one art that is more famous for the function or purpose it fulfills, than just for art’s sake. It is believed that when […]

Pithora – Tribal Art of Gratitude

We have seen a revival in the Pithora tribal art form, thanks to a renewed interest in the rich heritage of tribal art, with several artists becoming known through the art. Pithora is a truly tribal art form by origin, and was never created with aesthetic purposes. The generous use of bright colors in creating […]

The Art of Gold in Tanjore Paintings

Thanjavur (Anglicized as Tanjore) paintings are famous for their beautiful, rich, full-bodied colors that vie for attention with the exquisite gold filigree work and colorful studded gems. Appropriately called the Art of Gold and one of the most popular forms of art from south India, the theme of Tanjore paintings is primarily gods and goddesses […]

Tribal Vibes – The Magic of Gond Art

Gond paintings are vibrant paintings created with a series of intricately arranged dots and dashes.  Developed by the Gondi tribe of central India, Gond paintings are the truest form of tribal art that take us on a beautiful journey of mythological tales, historical events and important rituals, and traditional songs presented through visual art. People […]

Art for the Soul – The Intricate Symbols of Mandala

If you’ve been to a Buddhist monastery or admired religious art from east Asia, then you’ve been introduced to the spiritual art called Mandala. These complex works of art combine geometric patterns, religious symbols, and layers of meaning in each artwork that acts as a symbol, a prayer, or a meditation exercise. Mandala, a form […]

Pattachitra paintings: visual storytelling device from Odisha

When I was a child, almost every year the calendar that adorned the living room wall was a collection of bright, enchanting drawings that captivated me more than any other photos. I know now that I grew up looking at the ancient art of Pattachitra and feel fortunate to be able to now reflect on […]

Warli: The Art That Tells a Story

Warli art is a 400 year old tribal art which originated in a village by the same name in Maharashtra, a state in western India. The beauty of this two-dimensional style of painting lies in its simplicity of technique and the stories that each piece of Warli art tells. The Warli tribe believed that nature provided for everything […]