Indigenous Arts of India
The theme woven through this painting is the interplay between trees and fish, depicted in indigenous traditions of Indian art. In many ancient cultures, trees are acclaimed and adored, but in India, the tree is considered as Purusha and earth as Prakriti. The cosmic entity, Purusha, exists beyond the realms of time and space and combines with Prakriti to form this world of creation. Fish are a symbol of fertility and prosperity, symbolizing wealth and abundance. The presence of fish indicates that all the elements of nature are in harmony.
Madhubani or Mithila
Madhubani or Mithila painting was traditionally created by the women of various communities in the Mithila region of India in the eastern Indian State of Bihar. Traditionally done on freshly plastered mud walls and floors of huts, Madhubani paintings are made from the paste of powdered rice, colors extracted from flowers and other natural ingredients. Madhubani paintings use two-dimensional imagery with central themes that are based around nature and Hindu Gods and Goddesses.
Trees depict the various elements of life in complete harmony. Trees, birds, animals are all support systems for each other. A melodious harmony of well formed shapes, bright colored fills and intricate patterns are depicted in Madhubani art.
With changing trends and requirements, these indigenous and tribal art forms are now also done on handmade paper, silk saris, dresses, shawls & pots with acrylic colors and other current day art materials. These arts, though developed in the rural areas centuries ago have experienced a resurgence and are cherished even by the urban elite. Social scenarios are depicted these days using this art style, making it very contemporary. These paintings are very much in demand and the revival of these art forms has helped the artists and their creativity flourish.
Artwork and story by Nita Padamsee
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