Indian Art: Meaning, Popularity and Distinct Forms

India- The world's largest democracy inhabits different types of Indian paintings, that belong to different religions and follow various cultures, traditions, and customs. Altogether, this is what makes our country the most diverse of them all in many ways. One of these ways that make the nation diverse is Indian art; it is the abode of various artists that practice distinct art styles and techniques.

That is why we thought of taking you on a walk for tracing the history, meaning and other quintessential things pertaining to it through this blog. Let’s start the ride to get the answers to all the most probable questions that must have buzzed in your head at some point of time in your life if you are an art lover.

What is Indian Art? 

All the art that is originated, developed or practiced within the geographical boundaries of the country is ‘Indian Art’. Earlier, the art forms developed and practiced used to have intricate patterns and an exaggerated depiction of the features and curves of the human bodies. Now, many Indian art forms have got a bit revamped and the art forms that are popular worldwide have now been adopted by the artists of India.

Indian art includes folk and tribal paintings of India, sculptures, handicrafts, jewellery, statues and much more. Names like Madhubani, Gond, Kalamari, Tanjore, Warli, and Pattachitra instantly come to the brain chords of folks whenever any discussion about Indian art comes up. Wall painting, temple art, miniature paintings are also an integral part of Indian art and its evolution over time.

What makes Indian Art so Exclusive and Matchless?

Everyone who has seen Indian paintings even once cannot refuse but agree that these paintings have something in them that makes them completely different from the rest of the art styles across the world. Thus, here is a list of features that give you enough reasons to understand why Indian art is so exclusive and matchless. Take a look.

• They have intricate detailing.
• They show an exaggerated version of bodies.
• They tell a story.
• They have bright colors.
• They have some religious value.

Which Sort of Indian Art Paintings are Loved the Most?

A lot of art styles have come in the art market over the years. While some of them got love and appreciation worldwide, some weren’t even able to garner even half of it. Indian artists understood this change in the preference of art lovers. That is why they either started making changes to their style of art-making or began learning these styles.

So, here is the list of art styles that are loved the most by art enthusiasts.

Indian Contemporary Art

Contemporary art is basically the art of today. It isn’t limited to a particular style. It is a dynamic combination of technology, innovation or both. It requires strong conceptualization, method, and use of materials.

Krishna Painting by Dhananjay Mukherjee

Indian Abstract art

Indian artists usually make abstract art using cubism style. Every abstract style is popular. It is so maybe, because either the subjects are made using patterns and shapes or because they are made with instinct and flow to express the emotions.

Lover - Made for each other Art by Rajesh Shah

Indian Traditional Art

Yes, due to the prevailing art styles the demand for traditional art has seen a downfall but it hasn’t completely vanished. Here, in no particular order, we list the most popular traditional Indian art paintings. Though many tribal and folk art forms have lost their significance and thus existence with time, the ones mentioned below continue to quench the thirst for brilliant artworks even today.

Warli Art

These were first practiced on walls by the natives of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Used to show their lifestyle, this art is made of small shapes like circles and triangles. The art is now used as a print on clothes.

Tribal dance Tarpaa Art by Anil Chaitya Vangad

Madhubani Painting

Madhubani painting is the folk painting of Bihar. It originated in the Mithila region and can be characterized by big eyes and greenery.

Friends Art by Vidushini Prasad

Tanjore Painting

Tamil Nadu which lies in the southern region of India is famous for these paintings. Visitors often take these paintings as a souvenir. They majorly portray lords. The paintings have gold foiling and stones studded on the apparel of the lord.

Rukmini Kalyanam Art by Traditional Indian Paintings

Miniature Painting

Mughals are responsible for making this Indian art form popular. The art form is mini (small) in size but pays high attention to the details. The Mughals have used this traditional art style to get the scenes of their court on the canvases. 

Traditional Art by Gayathri Mantha