Bastar Art - A Comprehensive Explanation

Deepak Yadav 08 April, 2023

India has always had diverse art forms, handicrafts, and paintings. In these arts, Bastar art is a form of traditional tribal art from the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India. This art form requires highly skilled artisans to create intricate detailing and an artistic finish. The raw materials for this art form are natural materials like wood and metal.

One easy way to recognise these specimens is from their unique and distinct style. The root of this art form is spread from the era of ancient times. The process of making this art form includes hammering, casting, and engraving techniques. The practitioners and artisans of this art form are known to create motifs that represent flora and fauna of the region. As India is a culturally rich country, people try to incorporate their local culture and motifs of local peacocks, elephants, and other animals in the area.

Bastar art also symbolises tribal identity, as this art form is ingrained in the tribal culture and identity. We can conclude that this art is practised mainly by the tribal people of the area, who have produced these beautiful pieces of art for generations. Artisans and practitioners of these art pieces are known as 'dhokra' artists. One prime feature of these highly skilled craftsmen is they have mastered the art of creating intricate designs.

Bastar art production is a time-consuming and complex process. If we break down the steps involved in making an art piece, The first step is creating a replica of Bastar's art design using wax. Following the replica, this wax model is dried by covering it with clay and hay. Post-drying, the wax is melted to create a hollow design mould.

Molten metal is filled in the hollow mould and left to cool and solidify. After solidification, metal is detached from the mould and polishing and finishing of the piece starts. Following these steps, a finished product is created, thereby showing the artist's skill and creativity.

Bastar art is a unique form of human skill that can produce a significant source of income for the tribal people and artists. The government of India has recognised the art form as a traditional art form and has received support through grants and funding. This tribal art form continues to thrive in the modern era. To support this art form characterised by its intricate designs, use of natural materials, and skilled craftsmanship, you can purchase these art forms to support local artisans and movements like Vocal for Local. To visually understand these art forms, you can check out our website.