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>>

Originated in 2500 BC during the peak of the Indus Valley Civilization, history of Indian art is almost as old as its civilisation! Produced in diverse style and medium, these works of art were often inspired by philosophical musings, spirituality and sensuality. However, the aesthetics and depth of Indian art continue to enthral the connoisseur and common man alike. There are some exceptional artists in India who have manifested the culture and tradition of the country by creating a visual harmony of emotions. It was during the... Read more>>

Diverse in technique, pattern, and design, folk art in the form of mud murals have been an integral part of the domestic architecture of Jharkhand in eastern India for ages! Mud has been used as a building material since ancient times and still continues to be the primary material for the construction of rural dwellings in many parts of rural Jharkhand. The regular maintenance including annual repair and plastering of these mud houses becomes an occasion for creating intricate designs and elaborate patterns in the form of murals am... Read more>>