Indians have made murals in our homes, temples and caves for thousands of years. Today though, when we think of murals, we first think of Ajanta and Ellora in reality there is a perplexing variety of murals that we produce!
Somewhere along the way, we have forgotten them. Our cities have forgotten the beautiful art that was an integral part of our lives and is still seen in some rural locations. Right from Gond art from Madhya Pradesh to Lipaikam from Kutch to Khovar art from Jharkhand, we have a rich history of beautiful interior and exterior murals. There are havelis done up with Shekhavati , Sanjhi and Tikri work in Rajasthan, churches and temples in Kerala are painted with rich murals as well.
These art forms carry a global language- they speak of a visual language that transcends borders. There are many commonalities with some of our mural art forms and ancient Aborigine art or African art. The lines seem to flow right from our roots, which go to a time when there were no boundaries across nations.
Therefore, the art evokes a strong feeling of our roots and the comfort we derive from this. Such murals can also be very contemporary in their expressions, with elongated forms, lines, abstract textures and complex concepts being illustrated.
It is therefore fitting that we make use of this rich variety that is available right at our doorstep. This art can be customized for interiors of today. The artisan skills remain the same, but are armed with new technology. In step with today, they have learnt to use appropriate plastic emulsion paints on the walls. The murals can also be coated with a protective layer for longevity.
The impact that a mural creates is stunning. It can utilize the contours of the walls, beams and ceiling to create a 3D effect. It is versatile- and can convey multiplicity of themes and match with your existing color schemes. Commission a patterned motif in your main living space, a romantic Radha-Krishna on your bedroom wall or a serene mandala in your prayer room. You can choose from a wide variety of styles. The rich murals of Rajasthan include shekhawati/miniature painting on the walls. If you like the intricacy of the Tibeten work, then opt for Mandalas or Thangkas. In 3D surface work you can get Stone Jalli and inlay art, clay and mirror Lipaikam and Bidri from Karnataka. For people who like an earthy but rich look, there are Kerala murals. They come in beautiful colors and with high level of detailing.
A mural can last 3-10 years depending on the care taken for the mural and the exposure it faces with elements. They can be touched up repeatedly, if you wish to keep them longer.
A final suggestion- these art forms will look authentic and truly charming if it’s done by the grassroot artisans themselves. We must remember that it is first and foremost their art. Every such purchase adds to the preservation of their age-old skills and brings them valuable income. However, to create the perfect customised mural where the size, scale, theme and colors are right, you could use the services of a good design house. They can define and sketch an initial concept, supervise the composition, layout and the colors. They will also ensure the appropriate touch-ups and maintenance can be provided whenever required.
So the next time you have a bare wall, think dramatic, think mural. It will be a delight to the visual senses and also a topic of conversation with friends!
— Shibani Jain
Founder and Managing Partner Baaya Design