Pattachitra Art: Evoking India's Rich Cultural Tapestry.

1. Meaning: The word ‘Pattachitra’ is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘patta’, meaning canvas, and ‘chitra’, meaning picture. So, Pattachitra essentially means a picture painted on a piece of cloth.

2. Materials: Artists use natural colors, primarily derived from mineral and vegetable sources. The canvas is traditionally made from cotton cloth, which is soaked in a solution of gum and chalk and then dried.

3. Themes: The paintings are renowned for their intricate details and mythological narratives, and folklore inscribed in them. They predominantly revolve around tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and stories of Lord Jagannath and Radha-Krishna.

4. Characteristics: Pattachitras are known for their rich colorful application, creative motifs, and designs. The borders are particularly intricate and ornate.

5. Process: Before painting, the artists do not draw the sketch. Instead, they directly paint with brushes, which are made from the hair of domestic animals.

6. Associated Art: The art of Pattachitra paintings is closely related to the Jagannath cult and temple traditions. The artists, or ‘chitrakars’, often belong to the region surrounding the Jagannath Temple in Puri.

7. Evolution: While the traditional themes continue to dominate, artists today have also started painting modern subjects and experimenting with new ideas while retaining the traditional techniques.

Pattachitra represents the rich cultural heritage and traditional art form of India, especially the eastern region.

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