Stylistic Analysis of Space in Indian Folk Painting

Abstract

The paper aims at identifying the design principles of Indian folk painting by analyzing some paintings of master painters from Srikalahasti, Madhubani, and Raghurajpur. The authors further discuss the different initiatives to reinterpret the effectiveness of storytelling through graphic visuals among mass. The age-old chitrakatha tradition of narrative paintings with oration, as an intrinsic part of Hindu folk religion has played a significant role in the proliferation of the doctrines of Hindu epics and moral stories. The space division aims at an optimum clarity for impelling communication. The dimensions are often mandatory rather than arbitrary. Yet, often esthetic overpowers the theme. The authors as evaluators adopt the method of three folded analytical study of semiotic, iconic and thematic aspects. The tradition of narrative folk paintings although has emerged and grew in remote and isolated locations but is not confined to the temples and rituals anymore because of cross cultural exchanges. They are rich as artistic expression and potent enough to amalgamate and evolve with time. The paper, therefore briefly opines on the significance of folk art practice in the changing society.