The tradition of painting in Kerala goes as far back as can be conceived. Drawing large figures of deities such as Bhagavathy and Bhadrakali has been in vogue either as Kalamezhuthu or in some other form.

Mylanchi or henna tattooing is an art the women of Kerala have practiced since eternity. Tainting their fingertips and nails and palms with the paste of the Mylanchi shrub’s leaves was heir age old method of beautification. With time they refined this art with intricate designs and assimilated Arabic patterns. They perfected the use of contrasts and floral patterns to give a grandiose effect.

Face and body paintings forms an integral part of Kerala’s performing arts. Dances such as Kathakali, Theyyam and the Ottan Thullal are virtually unimaginable without the fine art of face and body painting.

Mural painting in Kerala has its source in prehistoric rock paintings found in the region. Mural paintings in Kerala took its first steps as an infant in about the 8th century A.D. the art assimilated various influences such as the Pandiyan style of mural painting from Tamil Nadu and northern influences from Maharashtra and yet was only enriched by the association. Kerala never lost its identity and testimony stands in the form of the many palaces, temples and churches which are being studied by artists and archeologists alike.

Water colors and charcoal sketches were the traditional forms of canvas art in the state. Raja Ravi Verma introduced the region to the expansive world of oil paintings. Having won international acclaim the maestro was either being praised or criticized at home. Either ways his presence could not be ignored. He started a lineage which has been taken up in current days by the likes of talented artists such as George Oommen.

Paintings are a part of the Keralan lifestyle. Chedikkalam for example, is a style of floor drawing. The variety, style and innovativeness of Malayali artists in the world of paintings are unsurpassed.

To learn more about the different forms of Kerala Paintings click the following links.

Last Updated on 27 May 2011

Kerala Paintings

Face & Body Painting

Kalamezhuthu in Kerala