Creating Warli Art | #WordlessWednesday

We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.

—Bob Ross

 

Bob Ross was talking of art when he said this. Only recently, whilst engaged in creating art, I realised what he had actually meant. So, here is my recent piece—imperfect, (according to me!) but a “happy” accident, and more importantly, also my very first attempt to create a Warli style art, that I’ve been planning for a long time. I’m just so glad that I didn’t put it off any further and just did what I had in mind. It was so much fun drawing the motifs and the stick figures. Almost like going back to childhood. (The white ink on black paper does work well, doesn’t it?)

For those unacquainted with this indigenous art form, let me tell you, it is a vivid expression of the everyday lives of the Warli tribespeople of Maharashtra, (a state located in the Western part of India) which they do by embellishing the walls of their village homes. Warli Art was first discovered in the early seventies. While there are no records of the exact origins of this art form, its roots may be traced to as early as the 10th century A.D. Historically, the Warli people have always kept their distance from the influences of modern urbanization. For them, their art has been the one and only means of transmitting folklore to a populace not yet acquainted with the written word.

In keeping with one of their most popular themes, I have created a spiral chain of humans around one central motif in the centre of the artwork. This is in accordance with the belief that life is an eternal journey, and it has no beginning and end. While this perspective may be debatable, it is their typical focal point around which their lives and their art continues to thrive even today.

Art cleanses our souls and heals us within. Art entertains us. It even instils in us the mindfulness that only comes from engaging in its’ different forms. It is therapeutic. It is bliss. Art washes off the dust that we tend to accumulate in our everyday lives.

Aren’t these reasons compelling enough for all of us to engage in some form of art? What are your favourites? 

 

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21 thoughts

  1. “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life”
    One must always keep their creative side alive. Its the best healer, as one sub consciously express through it.
    Like I said earlier; brilliant art, art work and artist 🙂
    Have a happy weekend Esha.

  2. Wow! It’s great!
    I like this kind of art. Congratulations! 🙂
    Have a beautiful day!

    P.S. Very interesting information. Thank you!

  3. That is so beautifully done! It looks perfectly done. Art is so important to our lives especially in present times to keep all that anxiety at bay.

  4. This looks so good, Esha. You are talented my friend! You must create more such gorgeous pieces and conduct an exhibition of your artwork. I am glad that you are making time to do art in your busy schedule, Esha. It is commendable. <3

  5. I didn’t even think of white ink as an option, shows what I know. It turned out wonderfully, you must be very proud. Fascinating background on the Warli style. You’re artwork looks so perfect and precise, it’s funny you’re talking about happy accidents.

  6. I did not know about this Warli art, but there are a lot of symbols generally used in folk art.
    What you realized is very beautiful. Excellent work, dear friend. I like also to work different techniques, but I still did not decide my way… You can see if you want, on both blogs.
    Thank you for the linking, dear Esha! Happy WW and be well!

  7. What is life without art? How can one live without it?

    Such a beautiful picture, Esha. You are so talented and everything you do has such a deep inner meaning.

    Much love!

  8. Where is the LOVE button my friend? 😉

    This is such a stunning, and hopeful post.

    “Art cleanses our souls and heals us within. Art entertains us. It even instils in us the mindfulness that only comes from engaging in its’ different forms. It is therapeutic. It is bliss. Art washes off the dust that we tend to accumulate in our everyday lives.”

    These words should be engraved forever. 🙂 As they will serve as a beautiful reminder to keep at it.

  9. Interesting art form! Although only black and white, it is expressive and attractive. Thanks for sharing!

    Stay safe!

  10. Many years ago I use to draw and actually I drew quite a bit. My father use to love my pieces and then my dad past away and I stopped. I haven’t had the… oh, I don’t know… I just haven’t wanted to in a very long time. Maybe I should try… I don’t know, but yes it did make me feel calmer I must say. This artist is very intrigue… nope, I couldn’t do that to say the least!!! Have a great day my friend. Be healthy, Stay safe and be happy. Hugs…

  11. I marvel at how different peoples, prior to the Industrial Age, seemed to have enough free time to express themselves through art – everything from decorated clothing, to decorated tools, and even decorated weapons – and this is a perfect example, even into modern times. I loved it. My artwork is my photography (such as that is) which really is only recording the beauty of our world. I don’t create it. I just record and interpret it.

  12. Art in any form is healing, and this is awesome. Very beautiful artwork on eternal journey.
    I love sketching but lately somehow not able to express with pencil, but I’m rhyming words these days and writing impromptu poetry, yes it surely is helping me sail the anxiety.

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