TRADITIONAL INDIAN ART

There are dozens of traditional folk and tribal arts in India, passed down within families from one generation to the next for centuries. Some of the most prominent forms of traditional Indian art — which is sometimes referred to as folk art or tribal Indian art — are Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Madhubani (Mithila) from Bihar, Gond from Madhya Pradesh, Pattachitra from Orissa, Phad from Rajasthan and Warli from Maharashtra.

Unfortunately, as the world modernizes, it becomes increasingly difficult for tribal artisans to make a living from their craft alone, and many ancient forms of Indian art are at risk of disappearing altogether. Indian folk artists need support from collectors around the world in order to continue their customs, and that’s exactly why traditional Indian art is an important aspect of Laasya Art’s collection.

Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art form of hand-painting or block-printing on cloth and derives its name from the word ‘kalam,’ which means pen or brush. Originating from the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, Kalamkari painting was first practiced to decorate temple chariots and backgrounds for the idols of Gods. To learn more, please read our blog on Kalamkari art.

There are two types of Kalamkari painting: Srikalahasti, which is the freehand drawing style, and Machilipatnam, which is the block-printing technique.

Madhubani art — also known as Mithila art — is a traditional Indian art form noted for its use of local plants for colors, cow dung to treat the paper and bamboo sticks that serve as brushes, not to mention the beauty and simplicity of the paintings themselves. To learn more, please read our blog on Mithila (Madhubani) art.

Yes, these are two names for the same art form — Madhubani painting is also known as Mithila because it originated from a region named Mithila, in Bihar, India.