TRADITIONAL TALES

 My first experience with Mysore Traditional Painting!


It's never too late to learn and pursue your passion! 2022's tick in my bucket list!! 

It all began when I was in awe with the intricate work that goes in, in doing this painting. It just doesn't end there. You get attached to the painting, as if every line is communicating with you. As I listened to Carnatic music while I worked on my passion, the art grew more closer to me. I intend to work more on this art. I cannot comprehend the amount of work that has gone in this art in the history, as it is indeed RICH! Not by just the look of it, but by the amount of story it conveys.

Gratitude: Thank you! A very small word....
I was able to learn this rich art form from one of my friend, Hema, who is a GI (Geographical Indicator) and a certified Mysore and Tanjore artist. She has learnt Mysore Traditional Art from her Guru, Sri Ramanarasaiah, who was an artist at Jagan Mohan Palace, Mysore. Whose works adorn the walls of palaces in Mysore. She is a treasure by herself.. who has indepth knowledge about art forms.. who has a great collection of Mysore Art. She has been mentoring me with all the itsy bitsy details that has to be taken care off. A wonderful guide who goes all the way in imparting knowledge and to restore this art. What was overwhelming was to touch the brushes that were used by these two great artist. Also, was able to see some of the original sketches and strokes of Sri. Ramanarasaiah Sir...

I learnt the art from scratch. Hunting for the right paper (THE most important thing, as it takes upto 7 to 8 layers of steps. Paper plays an important role as it should not tear or curl during the entire process) to fetching the pure gold foils. Making the board which takes about a day as there should be no air bubbles when sticking or drying the work area. Painting the Gesso for the right amount of embossed details and working with the gold foil with a gentle and delicate touch to the lines which define the features, the hues and colors that bring out the intricacies of the art...

Patience is a virtue. You can not hurry in finishing the artwork. Each step and each layer needs to be carefully managed where each line is important. A little thick or a little extra makes a lot of difference. Each hue is important. You need to imagine how your artwork would look by the end of it before mixing the colors in the palette. What makes the painting even more treasured is that you are not using just water in painting it but, soapnut water solution is used for the paints to stick to the Gold foil/Gesso.

I can go on and on about the overwhelming experience I had working on my first treasure. I will save it for later :)

Wishing to keep the art alive and going, I will sign off with few golden brush strokes and hues!