KALAMKARI FABRIC ARTWORK
REFERENCE ARTWORK
INTRODUCTION: KALAMKARI AND ITS
ORIGINATION
Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art form involving intricate hand-painting or
block-printing on fabric. Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art form where
intricate designs are hand-drawn on treated fabric using natural dyes. It involves
layering colours and boiling the fabric to fix vibrant, eco-friendly hues,
showcasing India’s rich artistic heritage. This art form originated in Andhra
Pradesh, India, and derives its name from “kalam,” meaning pen, and “kari,”
meaning craftsmanship. Traditionally, Kalamkari was used to depict Hindu
mythology, epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, and nature-inspired
MEDIUM USED
For this recreation, I used poster colours on paper to mimic the traditional look.
The poster colours provide a vibrant finish, closely resembling the original
vegetable dyes used in authentic Kalamkari.
FORM AND DESIGN
The artwork represents a classic Kalamkari neckline design, often used in
traditional Indian garments like kurtas. Vibrant hues of red, blue, green, and
yellow dominate the artwork, with white highlights to enhance the floral details.
The composition maintains a symmetrical layout, although not perfectly, but
overall it has a symmetrical design. This is a key characteristic of Kalamkari
patterns, creating balance and harmony. Floral patterns and a central depiction
of an elephant, symbolize prosperity and strength in Indian culture.
CULTURAL RELEVANCE
This artwork emphasizes India’s rich textile heritage and reflects the deep
connection between art and culture. The use of traditional elements like
elephants and floral designs ties the work to its historical roots, celebrating
India’s legacy.