Portraying a rich cultural heritage, India has stood out in the world map for centuries. The vibrancy stands testimony to the traditional richness of the country. With 29 states and 7 union territories have highly influenced the art forms and the cultural landscape of the country, which introduces a variety in the same. Every region in the country has its own pattern and style of art, which is known as folk art. On a microscopic level, since these arts are created by different tribes, the name tribal art has become immensely familiar with us all.
Simple yet majestic, colorful and vivacious, these art forms speak much of the country’s rich heritage history. Indian tribal art forms have become extremely popular all across the world owing to its amazing appeal. The tribal art carries this distinctive colors and patterns, which allow these to stand out in a populated art landscape. From mythical motifs to religious representations, the tribal art form is as mesmerizing as it gets. It is the creativity of these tribal art forms that further gives them the reputation that they enjoy.
Now, there are different types of tribal art forms in India, however, let us focus on some of the most popular versions. To understand the tribal art form, it is essential to comprehend these various forms. Keep reading to find out more.
Patua
Patua is one of those tribal art forms that has stood the test of time and has impressed the art enthusiasts for years. Traditionally, this type of art is made on a piece of handmade paper that is placed on a cloth for increased stability. Patua is mostly about narrating mythological scenes. The artists would travel (and still do) to various villages and sing the stories depicted on the pictures. The use of bright shades allows Patua to make the kind of impression it does.
Pattachitra
Pattachitra is an art form that belongs to the state of Orissa, particularly to the region of Puri, a famous pilgrim site for the Hindus. This version of the tribal art and sculpture form focuses on bringing to life deities using bright strokes of color. Narrating epics that follow religious themes, Pattachitra is characterized by sharp, bold lines. The heavy Mughal influence can be witnessed highly in the paintings. This type of art is usually crafted on clothes.
Bhil
Bhil is one of the oldest tribes in India that are often traced back to the ancestry of the powerful archer Ekalavya from the epic Mahabharata. Found in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan, this is one of the oldest tribal art forms in India. Bhil art uses vibrant colors that reflects all types of natural phenomenon and scenes like trees, rivers, animals, Gods, and mythological creatures. The innate scenes can be seen both on papers and on walls. The artists use herbal colors and vegetable dyes to bring the pictures to life.
Saura
Found in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra, Saura was created by a jungle tribe that roamed around these places many years ago. This form of art displays the glory of nature, with every painting centering around a central concept known as the “Tree of Life.” Every branch of this tree acts as a home to humans and animals. The idea is to showcase the intricate relationship between man and environment. The colors used for this version of art is natural and derived from various trees like neem, sisal, various types of herbs and flowers.
To Conclude
Indian tribal art forms have mesmerized art enthusiasts from around the globe due to their magnificent aesthetic presence and appeal. There are many such art forms like Madhubani, Warli, Gond, Kalighat, and Kalamkari which are in high demand even today.
Indian tribal art forms are appreciated worldwide and with more and more exposure in the mainstream art circuit, the upcoming years can change the face of the tribal art forms completely. With popular art galleries like Gallery Must Art displaying masterpieces rendering to the same, you can experience the tribal art and sculptures first hand.
