Indian ArtA glimpse of Art in India:Indian art, as we know it now, has its roots spread across thousands of years, the earliest forms coming from around 3500 BC. As a country, India gained massive respect from it's broad cultural heritage acquired over this period.
Read on or follow the links for further information. Art and Indian MythologyAfter it's beginnings as basic wall paintings and it's role in Temples, monasteries, and shrines , Indian Art saw a great transformation in the form of materials used and the message conveyed around 3000 BC. The focus slowly shifted towards the great epics and myths being portrayed on canvas using various and vibrant colours. The primary components are usually of Ramayana & Mahabharat.
Miniature PaintingsThe art of Miniature paintings was a golden era in India’s art history. The art of miniature paintings became popular in India during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The miniature paintings depicted the life and lifestyle of the Mughal and Rajput Kings of the time.
Art and DanceThe existence of various dance forms [Kathakali, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak ..] became very popular. These were brilliantly supported by music and various instruments. The prevalence of various Raga’s and instruments was spread and many students were trained in these forms. Temples acted as the primary grounds of learning and grooming the students. Dancers and musicians were given very high respect in Indian society and were felicitated by the rulers of the country.
During the countries Independence, people saw yet another great transformation in India Art... Moving Forward
During the colonial era, some artists in India developed a style that used Western ideas of composition, perspective and realism to illustrate Indian themes while others like Jamini Roy, consciously drew inspiration from folk art. By the time of Independence in 1947, many schools of art in India started providing access to modern techniques and ideas. Art Galleries were established to showcase the work of these artists. Modern Indian art typically shows the influence of Western styles, but is often inspired by Indian themes and images. Great scholars and artists like Rabindranath Tagore, Raja Ravi Varma and many others saw extensive usage of oil and canvas in India Art. In fact, Rabindranath Tagore is often referred to as the father of Modern Indian Art. There were several schools & colleges who have introduced courses in fine arts as a part of their curriculum. Many students showed interest in the same and have become degree holders from universities in the field of fine art. The government also promoted this greatly and has established several universities for Fine Arts.
Post independence India Art has greatly seen the influence of western culture. The dance forms like rock, disco, salsa and others have become quite popular, especially towards the end of the century. A majority of the local instruments have been replaced by drums, Jazz, Guitar and so on .. Although the impact of these various forms is on the rise, there still exist a lot of Indian population who have nurtured the ancient art of the county and preserved it. Along with preserving, a lot of art exhibitions and shows are conducted to keep the new generation aware of the ancient India Art, which was a unique identity of the country.
Over all, India Art has seen various changes throughout its course. Started way back in approximately 3500 BC with primarily sculptors, evolved to paintings, saw the emergence of various dance forms, musicians and instruments supporting them, which later saw the promotion of local India Art [also known as Folk], and finally the usage of canvas and oil paintings and emergence of modern art. Hopefully I have covered most aspects of Indian Art and its development in the past centuries. As for the future, well who knows! With great pride in the past and hope for the future, Indian Artists stand strong with their head held high. Further ReadingIndia art in Temples, Monasteries and ShrinesIndian Body art Indian art Paintings
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