Fantastic beasts and flowers, miniature tigers, geometric human figures – the diversity of motifs and themes in Indian tribal art opens up kaleidoscopic vistas coloured by the artist’s vision.
An oft-recurring subject in tribal pictorial expression that celebrates the man-earth connect is the ‘Tree of Life’. Replete with intricate details illustrated in the Saura style of Odisha, artist Ballav Mishra’s eponymous painting enchants with its blend of vibrant forms and subtle hues. “I come from a family of traditional Pattachitra painters. However, I am also trained in Saura art, a unique style of Santhal folk painting. The themes revolve round rural life, farming activity and festivities,” explains Ballav.
Beneath a towering tree, tribals gather to celebrate the harvest season. Beating drums, laden with baskets overflowing with produce, the human figures appear similar to Warli forms. But a closer study reveals that the Saura forms are larger and more elongated. The tree is a fascinating amalgam of native species of flora and fauna interspersed with vignettes of ritualistic Santhal dance, detailed with a delicacy that characterises the miniaturist’s craft.
The colours used are completely natural, derived from sisal powder, neem leaves, Ayurveda herbs and flowers, to produce shades of black, grey, maroon, brown, green and ochre. Interestingly, a single-hair brush is used for painting. He says, “Stray hairs shed by squirrels are gathered from branches and each hair is fashioned into a brush. Since these hairs are seldom found, only a few paintings can be done. It takes weeks, even months to complete each work, which is prized for its meticulousness and rarity.” The Pattachitra and Saura paintings range from Rs. 500 – 20,000.
Wood craftsman Bhasu Moni also belongs to a family of traditional artisans. He explains, “For three generations, we have specialised in the making of wooden chests known as Mottupetti, particularly prized in Kerala. In an earlier era, the large ones were used for storing Kathakali costumes. A deep rectangular box with a triangular domed lid, where the chest was made of premium teak or rosewood embellished with brass fittings.
“More recently, I began sourcing local varieties such as kongu wood used for Marapachi dolls, which makes the piece affordable. The wood is planed using hammer (kottuvadi) and shaped with different types of chisels (uli). The planks are fused, using a paste of rosewood dust and araldite. After the paste dries, nails are hammered in. The head and protruding end of each nail is removed, so that they are not visible. Wax polish imparts a matte finish while wood varnish adds gloss. Next, the brass fittings, made in Trichur/Ernakulam, are attached”.
Priced between Rs. 3,000 and 9,000, the chests come in various sizes.
Among other hand-crafted items are light, summery chikankari kurtas (Rs.750-1,800) in lovely pastels and a variety of styles.
Kaushik Kundu’s matka silk sarees (Rs. 1,500 – 2,500) in cream and jewel hues, resplendent with Ari embroidery from West Bengal, and Arshid Kashmiri’s select collection of genuine pashmina (Rs. 4,000 – 9,000) and Kani work (Rs.26,000) shawls are a class apart.
The glossy lacquer and satiny contours of Etikoppaka toys, artefacts, hair clips, bangles, key chains and incense stands hold a unique appeal as do white cedar animal figurines and gilded meenakari elephants and camels.
Elegant hand-block printed canvas totes, water bottle holders and school bags are an eco-friendly alternative, while brocade clutches, potlis and purses from Jaipur vie for attention. An innovative touch distinguishes the lightweight, washable window blinds crafted from Bengal grass (Rs.650) and Pattamadai mats.
Wooden ladles and a host of kitchen ware and utility items from Saharanpur, Rajasthan silk paintings and antique reproductions, black metal, stone and terracotta jewellery complete the range.
The All India handicrafts exhibition is on at the C.P. Arts Centre till June 14 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
