Located on the western edge of India, Gujarat is the treasure trove of hidden gems — each of its regions is rooted in its unique culture, art and handicraft. Simple and colourful, these folk and tribal Indian art forms are vibrant enough to speak volumes about the country's cultural diversity and rich heritage. Popular and admired across the globe, they have carved a niche of their own in the history of Indian art. Let’s explore the hidden treasures of Gujarat, from Rogan art to tie-dye textiles to Pithora paintings... Read more>>

Undoubtedly, art has been the strongest means of expression since the evolution of mankind. Everyone is familiar with the cave paintings representing some of humanity's oldest stories but what about other paintings? The truth is, thousands of examples of paintings have been found across the world — dating back to thousands of years, these stunning works such as Egyptian, Indian art feature the culture and beliefs (often religious) of the age and civilizations they belong to. So, let’s go back as far as we can and ex... Read more>>

Oil pastel is painting as well as drawing medium with characteristics similar to pastels and wax crayons. These versatile oil crayons consist of pigment mixed with a non-drying oil and wax binder unlike other soft or Japanese pastel sticks, which are made with a gum or methylcellulose binder. The surface of an oil pastel colour painting is, therefore, less powdery, and quite difficult to protect with any fixative. But they pair perfectly with canvas, paper, wood and even glass. If you are new to using these, start out with subjects... Read more>>

Painted mostly on inexpensive mill-made paper or cloth with swift brushstrokes and homemade dyes, traditional Kalighat paintings originated in the 19th century. It is said to be developed in the vicinity of the iconic Kalighat Kali Temple on the bank of the Burin Ganga in the city of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta). Depicting Hindu gods and mythological figures from the religious epics, themes and characters from everyday life, these stunning works were sold to visitors who sought souvenirs to take with them from the religious sanctuary. ... Read more>>

Frida Kahlo, the famous Mexican artist, was known as much for her outlandish and bold self-portraits laden with hidden details and rich symbolism, as she was for her tragic life full of physical and emotional ordeals. Called a ‘natural surrealist’ by some because of her symbolic art that was often bizarre and dreamlike, she considered herself a ‘realist’ painter, wherein most of her artworks were tools of expression and representations of her own tragedies, life and emotions. Here we explore eight of Frida K... Read more>>