Unveiling Kerala's Mural Art: Dive into the Rich Heritage & Intriguing Facts! Explore the ancient origins, natural pigments, and hidden symbolism behind these captivating artworks. Venture into temples
as live canvases and discover the art's revival today. Discover more!
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala, God's Own Country, is famous for its backwaters, beaches, and delicious vegetarian food. But did you know about the state's rich tradition of mural art? These stunning paintings, adorning temple walls and palaces, boast of vibrant colours and intricate details.
Kerala murals are not just pretty pictures; they are a window into the state's history, mythology, and culture. Let's explore some fascinating facts about this beautiful art form.
Ancient Origins Rooted in Spirituality
Kerala mural art isn't something new; it's been around for centuries! Historians believe it started around the 9th century AD. These paintings weren't just decoration; they were deeply connected to Hindu temples and religious beliefs.
The artists saw their work as a form of worship, pouring their devotion into every brushstroke. By using natural pigments and traditional techniques, they created art that spoke to the soul, telling stories of gods, goddesses, and epic tales.
The murals served as visual aids for devotees, helping them understand the scriptures and connect with the divine.
The Panchavarna Palette
Forget fancy, modern paints! Kerala mural artists rely on a palette called "Panchavarna," which means "five colours." These aren't just any five colours; they're derived from nature: yellow, red, green, black, and white. Yellow comes from stones. Red is made from laterite soil.
Green is extracted from leaves. Black is made from burnt coconut shells. White is crafted from lime. Artists spend time preparing these natural pigments. The limited palette forces artists to be super creative, mixing and blending the colours to create a wide range of shades and tones.
Shilparatna
The Artist's Guide: Imagine painting without any guide! Kerala mural artists follow a special book called "Shilparatna.
" It's like an artist's manual that tells them everything: right from the type of colours to use and the type of brushes to use, to the different poses and gestures of the characters. Without this guide, it would be chaos!
This ancient text lays down strict rules and guidelines to ensure that the murals are created correctly, maintaining the integrity of the art form and its spiritual significance. It's a legacy that has been passed down from one generation of artists to the next.
Temple Walls as Canvas
Forget paper and canvases! Kerala murals are primarily found on the walls of temples and sometimes, palaces. Artists painstakingly prepare the walls, making them smooth before painting. They clean the walls gently. The walls become a big piece of art.
The scale of these murals is often ambitious, covering entire walls and creating immersive visual narratives. This helps the viewers to get involved and feel connected, thus helping the devotees to connect with the painting. This also helps the visitor to stay in the space longer!
Themes from Hindu Mythology
If you look closely, you will see that the paintings are inspired by Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Gods, goddesses, demons, and heroes come to life on the walls. The murals are a visual representation of these ancient stories, educating and inspiring viewers.
Common figures include Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva, Goddess Lakshmi, and Hanuman, each depicted according to strict iconographic principles.
Hidden Symbolism
Kerala murals aren't just pretty pictures; they are full of hidden messages and symbolism! Every colour, every gesture, every object has a special meaning. For example, the colour yellow often represents divinity, while red can symbolise passion or energy.
Artists use these symbols to add layers of meaning to their work. Understanding these hidden symbols unlocks a deeper appreciation for this art form.
The study of these symbols allows the devotees to stay connected because you will see these symbols that they are trying to convey being practiced in your everyday life.
Gurukula System of Learning
Becoming a Kerala mural artist isn't easy. It takes many years of learning! Traditionally, students learn from a guru (teacher) in a "gurukula" system. They live with the guru, learning the secrets of the art.
This involves studying the Shilparatna, practicing the techniques, and understanding the philosophy behind the art. This close relationship between guru and student ensures that the tradition is passed down without losing its essence.
The guru-shishya parampara continues to be an important aspect of this art form.
A Revival of Interest
For some time, this art was not so famous. Slowly, people are showing interest. Modern Kerala mural artists work hard to keep this tradition alive. They conduct workshops for the public, teaching them about Kerala murals. It is a sign that the tradition is being saved and not lost.
Museums and art galleries promote mural art to a national and international audience.
Explore Kerala's vibrant mural art for cultural insights
So, next time you are in Kerala, don't just admire the backwaters and beaches. Make sure you take some time to appreciate the beauty and depth of Kerala mural art. These stunning paintings offer a unique glimpse into the state's rich cultural heritage, history and spirituality. Keep it alive!
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