Gond art is folk and tribal art practised by the Gond people, one of India’s most prominent tribes. The Gonds are primarily from Madhya Pradesh, although they are also found in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Gond art is distinguished by its bright colours, elaborate patterns, and portrayals of nature and mythology. Gond painters produce their paintings with various natural materials like mud, charcoal, and plant saps. They used to paint on the walls and floors of their homes, but Gond art can now be found on various surfaces such as canvas, paper, and wood.
Types
- Digna: A typical geometric design painted on the walls and floors of Gond dwellings. Nature, such as the sun, moon, stars, and animals, is frequently used to inspire Digna patterns.
- Bhittichitra: Bhittichitra is a more complex type of Gond art that shows natural and mythological scenes. Bhittichitra murals can frequently be found on the walls of Gond homes and shrines.
History of Gond Art
Gond art has a centuries-long tradition. The Gonds have a long oral history, and their art is frequently used to communicate stories about their history, culture, and beliefs. Festivals and ceremonies are often celebrated with Gond art. The outside world began recognizing Gond’s art in the early twentieth century. J.H. Hutton, a British artist and anthropologist, wrote a book on Gond art in 1931, which helped promote it among art collectors and lovers. People throughout the world enjoy Gond art today. It is shown in museums and galleries, as well as in homes and businesses. Gond art is another popular style of Indian souvenir.
Themes and Motifs
Gond art is distinguished by its bright colours, elaborate patterns, and portrayals of nature and mythology. The following are some of the most common topics and motifs in Gond art:
- Nature: The natural world around them inspires Gond artists. Their paintings frequently portray animals, plants, trees, and mountains.
- Mythology: Gond art depicts scenes from Hindu mythology as well. Krishna, Radha, and Hanuman are three of the most well-known mythical figures in Gond art.
- Festivals and Rituals: Festivals and rituals are often celebrated with Gond art. During the Durga Puja celebration, for example, Gond painters frequently paint images of the goddess Durga.
Famous Paintings
- Jangarh Singh Shyam: Jangarh Singh Shyam was a well-known Gond artist of his generation. His large-scale paintings of nature and mythology are famous.
- Durgabai Vyam: It is a Gond artist who has won a National Award. Her paintings are distinguished for their vivid colors and unique patterns.
- Ganga Jangarh : It is a Gond artist well known for his paintings depicting traditional Gond rites and festivities.
