The global art scene is witness to a range of impactful movements, be it socio-political, ecological or ethical. In line with this, a major drift has captured the popular imagination in the recent past. It is the re-interpreting of traditional crafts and reviving them with a contemporary twist. Nowadays, artists from across the world are steadily learning from their predecessors as well as innovating and experimenting with newer techniques.
Many artists in India have been incorporating elements in painting, sculpture, embroidery and pottery, borrowing from the magnificent Warli Paintings, Pattachitra work architecture THIS union has led to the emergence of intricate patterns and vibrant colours in mixed mediums. It has further contributed to adding a ‘fresh paint’ to Indian culture and altered how art is perceived by the viewers.
The delicate pairing of tradition and modernity has redefined public and private spaces, creating occasions for unique collaborations. In congruence with these developments, today, numerous designers, artists and architects are incorporating older art forms into their works. This notable shift can also be attributed to a desire to create spaces that tell a story and provide an enriching experience OF ANCIENT CULTURE AND TRADATIONS TO PRESENT GENERATION.
While traditional crafts shed light on the spiritual and philosophical values of India’s past, they give modern viewers a new lens to comprehend their lives. Likewise, by juxtaposing traditional craft with modern styles, artists have been able to portray personal and culturally rich narratives. Positively, this combination has allowed many to adopt different materials which were earlier unthought-of. As a result, Indian art galleries have been swift to pick on the trend by exhibiting a balance of both for magnified appeal.
Moreover, the blend of such diverse art forms has reached varied audiences, making Indian art popular. For instance, Mahbubani paintings, known for their intricate designs and lively colours, have become a well-liked form of contemporary art. Akin to this, Tanjore art, with its delicate gold work and semi-precious stones, has become indispensable to Indian art exhibitions globally. Indian artists too have earned significant recognition by seamlessly merging ancient crafts with contemporary styles to resonate with modern sensibilities.
Finally, while balancing traditional with modern, artists need to bear in mind that the authenticity or intent of the craft must not be misinterpreted. Several technological advancements can be leveraged while intersecting both, especially for large-scale projects. In the long run, collaboration between artists, designers and architects will prove beneficial in breathing new life into traditional crafts. All in all, the amalgamation of ancient and contemporary is increasingly relevant to preserving local art forms and making them globally accessible.
Shared by : Ms. GR Rajapriya,
Founding Director and Principal Designer, East Craft Designs
