Best 5 Distinct Types of Painting Styles in India

There is a rich diversity of Indian culture and its various folk art forms. This is evidenced by the numerous styles of painting that are prevalent in various regions. While these art forms were once prevalent as wall paintings, canvass, and paper, they are now widely used as art forms by the urban masses.

5 Distinct Types of Painting Styles in India

We express our emotions and thoughts through art forms. There are various types of Indian paintings that depict various aspects of our environment and culture.

Tanjore Paintings

Tanjore Paintings

Thanjavur or Tanjore painting is a folk art form that originated in South India. It is believed that the paintings were first created around 1600 AD.The Tanjore paintings are made from gold foil and use a colorful panel painting on a wood plank. The main theme of these paintings is usually related to the Hindu deities and saints. 

These paintings are made from thick composition and vivid colors. They have a unique appeal due to their surface texture and embellishments. This item makes a statement and adds a special touch to the room. It is made of gold foil and houses colourful paints.

Mysore Painting

Mysore Painting

The style of the Mysore painting is similar to Tanjore paintings. It features scenes from Hindu mythology and involves the use of thin gold leaves.The artist then draws the picture on the base, and they make a paste using various materials, such as Arabic gum and zinc oxide. This step produces a slightly elevated carving style on the various sections of the paint.After the gold foil has been attached to the painting surface, the other materials are used to apply the paint. The artist then uses a soft stone to wipe the paint off completely.

Madhubani Painting

Madhubani Painting

The Madhubani paintings are made by women in the village of Bihar. They are usually done on walls, floors, and holy places. The patterns are characterized by their natural colors and geometric shapes.Themes of Madhubani paintings are usually focused on scenes from nature, mythology, and Hindu deities. They also feature various social events and scenes from Ramayana.

The Madhubani paintings are made up of geometric patterns and are usually done in mud walls or soil ground. They are also done on canvas, paper, and cloth.

Kalamkari Painting

Kalamkari Painting

The art of Kalamkari is practiced in various parts of India. It is mainly practiced by women and families in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.Kalamkari is a folk art form that depicts scenes from epics and other religious festivals. It uses vibrant colors and designs to depict animals, Buddha, and Hindu symbols.

This art form is done by painting on a cotton fabric using a bamboo reed and various natural and earthy colors. The process involves a number of steps and involves a deep soaking in the fabrics.

Patachitra Painting

Patachitra Painting

Patachitra or Pattachitra is a type of cloth scroll painting art form that originated from West Bengal and Odisha. It mainly depicts various religious and mythological themes.The various themes that are represented in Patachitra art form include Krishna Lila, Dasabatara Patti, and Thia Badhia. These are representations of Lord Jagannath and his various powers.

The colors used in Patachitra are bold and vivid. These patterns are made up of various natural and colored pigments. The artists behind this art form are referred to as Mohapatras.