TRIBAL ARTS AND ITS IMPORTANCE

India had always been known as the land that portrayed cultural and traditional vibrancy through its conventional arts and crafts. The 35 states and union territories sprawled across the country have their own distinct cultural and traditional identities, and are displayed through various forms of art prevalent there. Every region in India has its own style and pattern of art, which is known as folk art. Other than folk art, there is yet another form of traditional art practiced by several tribes or rural population, which is classified as tribal art. The folk and tribal arts of India are very ethnic and simple, and yet colorful and vibrant enough to speak volumes about the country's rich heritage.

The government of India, as well as other societies and associations, have therefore made all efforts to promote such art forms, which have become an intrinsic part of India's cultural identity. Tribal art generally reflects the creative energy found in rural areas that acts as an undercurrent to the craftsmanship of the tribal people. Tribal art ranges through a wide range of art forms, such as wall paintings, tribal dances, tribal music, and so on. 

These tribal paintings have been taught by one generations to another depicting human cycles and the core of our existence. The main theme of tribal painting in India is our cycle of birth , death, marriage, farming , celebration, harvest and five basic elements of Mother Earth.

Everyone is taking an interest in learning more about Tribal art. Earlier people thought that they too could replicate the work of tribal artists (jewellery or toys). The focus of people promoting is to restore tribal art as a pure art form that has a unique and colorful language. It is an art that informs, entertains and engages. People’s perception is changing with tribal art coming out of the closet. This will help in keeping the legacy alive. 

Buying tribal art should not be looked as an investment that will fetch good prices. The idea of owning a tribal art compared to modern artworks is to preserve it as a cultural embodiment. This art is beautiful, rich and envelopes a tale of a time or region. If this art form is not preserved then it will die a silent death like Singuli art from Maharashtra. It is next to impossible to find this art form as artists have stopped practicing it due to no support. 

Warli Paintings – Universal Tribes

Gond Paintings – Universal Tribes