Gond Artists

This week a visiting artist, Sunil Kumar Dhurvey from a tribal village in central India, taught the fifth graders the history and techniques of Gond Art. Traditionally this form of art was painted on the exterior of buildings by the women. So many people from around the world loved the artwork, that artists like Sunil and his family began painting on paper and canvas to sell.

Sunil demonstrated how the paints were originally made from plants and flowers.Today he uses acrylic paints and special "dot" pens.

First an outline of an animal or plant is drawn, then painted with solid acrylic paints. I was amazed at how both Sunil and his wife simply sat on the floor or on a short stool to do their work.

Sunil added fine dot and scallop details with his pens. This tiger painting was inspired by masked dancers at a traditional wedding party in his village. I purchased this piece, along with 3 others, for 500 Rs each ($10 each!).

 

Another favorite

It is curious how similar the style of art is amongst native people in places like Mexico and Australia.

Sunil's wife was adorned right down to the toes! It was a pleasure to spend time with these humble artists, whose craft has spanned generations.