India is a diverse country where every few kilometers, one can find a different culture, language, and community. The country has a rich history of arts and crafts that have evolved over centuries, making it a coveted position in the handicrafts landscape of the world. The traditional Indian handicrafts market has stood the test of time and has withstood foreign invasions and depredation due to the patience and belief of Indian craftsmen to accept and assimilate new ideas.
Here are some of the popular art forms that are indigenously Indian:
Indian paintings have been in existence since the stone age and have evolved from paintings and murals on stones to cloth canvases. Initially, made for religious purposes, these paintings have now turned into great pieces to add character to homes. From the Mughals to the Rajputs, from the British colonization period to the post-independence Modern contextualism period, Indian paintings are truly testaments of time that guide every generation to think, inspire, and realize.
Warli art is an ancient art form that dates back to 3000 BC on the boundaries of Maharashtra and Gujarat. This art form is still prevalent on the red-ochre walls of the villages of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Various geometric patterns are painted in white color illustrating religious activities, flowers, wedding rituals, as well as the day-to-day activities of the tribes of the specific region. In the modern world, Warli art is quite popular and a respected art form among the people of the world and can be seen on vases, pots, and several other accessories of home décor.
Indian Metal Works: The art form of making metallic objects dates back to 5 millennia ago. Metal sculptors used various metals like copper, iron, silver, and various alloys like bronze to make pans, mythological figures, murtis, idols of Hindu gods, animals, drummers, pots, etc. This metalwork can be seen in different parts of the country, but it is mainly home to the central part of India. Indian metalwork is widely used in Hindu religion as many worshipers get idols of Hindu gods in their homes, which is believed to make the home auspicious.
Pottery is practiced by a large number of artisans across the Indian subcontinent and is one of the best representations of Indian culture and heritage among many art forms. Many cultural, economic, and social factors of the present day have influenced the style of pottery work, but the excellent craftsmanship and intricate detailing of the potters are still to the best mark. Initially, pots were primarily made up of clay and used as vessels to extract water from the well or store water, but today, the pottery work has evolved, and porcelain and pottery artforms such as Jaipur Blue Pottery are a big part of home décor.
Indian Woodwork
Indian Woodcraft has become very popular in the international market for its intricate handwork and raw look. Handmade furniture with the combination of high-quality raw materials and exquisite detailing is the mantra for success of the artisans when it comes to this and is gaining huge popularity among people. This art form is practiced in various different parts of India, each region having a specialty in terms of intricacies and also adding a bit of taste of their culture in the art form. One of the famous regions is Mysore, situated in the southern region, known all over the globe for its elegant and rosewood inlay work.
In conclusion, India's rich history and culture have been expressed through various art forms, from times of oppression or civil unrest to festive or auspicious times, each piece is an expression of the time. These handicrafts have evolved with time and technology, and yet, they continue to remain relevant and popular in the modern world.
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