Gond Painting

What is Gond Painting?

Introduction to Gond Painting

The aim of this course is to understand and learn the rich tradition, cultural significance and nuances of Gond Painting. Gond Painting is a traditional art practiced by the Gond tribe of Central India, known for its colourful and cultural depictions. In this course, we will explore the history, religious and spiritual elements of Gond Painting, distinctive techniques, contemporary relevance and prominent artists of Gond Painting. Additionally, you will be given projects and assignments for Gond Painting, through which you will be able to personally understand and practice the art.

History of Gond Painting, Religious and Spiritual Elements

The history of Gond painting is also linked to the cultural tradition of this tribal group. This tribal group mainly resides in Central India. Gods and Goddesses, folk tales and religious rituals are depicted in Gond painting. Religious beliefs, cultural beliefs and traditional stories are artistically depicted with dots and small and big lines as per imagination and colors of nature are filled in it. Colors and symbols play an important role in Gond painting.

Introduction and Brief History of Gond Tribe

Gond is an important tribal community of the Indian subcontinent. This tribe mainly resides in the forest areas of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. The historical presence of Gond tribe on the earth is believed to be thousands of years old, because in the past a large part of the earth has been famous as 'Gondwana Land'.

The history of Gond tribe is full of diversity and struggle. In the early period, the social and political organization of this tribe was based on the tribal system, but it was a strong social structure. In that system, every tribe or group had a chief, who had the power to take decisions related to the group. Mention of the Gond tribe is also found in Indian archaeological texts and historical records.

In medieval India, the Gond tribe had relations with various empires and rulers. This tribe, with its wisdom and capability, established the Gondwana Empire and also expanded its power and influence between the 14th and 17th centuries. Various Gond states also played an important role in regional politics. With the expansion of the British Empire, despite the struggle, the Gond states also came under its control, after which the Gond tribe also had to face colonial policies and administrative changes.

The Gond tribal group has been constantly trying to adjust with the modern society, but this tribe has always tried to preserve its traditional cultural identity and customs. This is the reason why the various forms of language, traditional arts and handicrafts of this tribal group are still alive, efforts are being made to preserve them as cultural heritage through various means. Today the Gond tribe is moving towards improvement in the fields of education, health and social welfare. Its effort is to protect the traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage of the community.

Habitats of Gond tribe Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha

The Gond tribe is a major tribal group, which resides in various states of India. It is mainly settled in various forest and mountain areas of states like Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Odisha etc. Let us discuss this topic a little more:

1. Madhya Pradesh: The Gond tribe lives in large numbers in Dindori, Mandla, Betul, Chhindwara, Balaghat,

Seoni, Shahdol, Umaria, Pushparajgarh, Sidhi, Satna, Sagar, Raisen etc. districts of Madhya Pradesh. Here the forest and hilly areas are the traditional habitat of the Gonds, where they earn their livelihood through agriculture, hunting and collection of forest products.

2. Maharashtra The Gond tribe is populated in Gadchiroli, Chandrapur Nandurbar, Amravati etc. districts of Maharashtra. The Gonds here remain engaged in agriculture and forest based activities while maintaining their traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage.

3. Chhattisgarh: The Gond tribe in Chhattisgarh mainly resides in almost all the districts of Bastar division including Surguja etc. The dense forests and mountainous areas of Bastar are an integral part of the traditional lifestyle of the Gonds, where they do traditional farming, collection of forest products and hunting.

4. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: People of the Gond tribe reside in Adilabad, Karimnagar, Khammam, Kurnool, Visakhapatnam, Vijayanagaram etc. districts of present-day Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Here, the main basis of their livelihood is agriculture and forest produce.

5. Odisha: People of the Gond tribe reside in Kandhamal, Navarangpur, Koraput etc. districts of Odisha. Here too, their lifestyle and cultural practices are influenced by the geographical features of those areas.

Apart from these, there is a population of Gond tribal group in some areas of states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal etc. The cultural identity, traditional customs and social structure of the Gond tribe are deeply linked to the geographical features of their place of residence.

Origin of Gond Painting and its Cultural Importance

Gond Painting is the traditional art of the Gond tribe of Central India. The origin of this art lies in the historical and cultural contexts of the tribal communities. This art has been traditionally practiced mainly in the Gond community of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra. Gond painting probably began in an attempt to reflect the characteristics of the tribal lifestyle, struggle, beliefs and environment. From the very beginning, accessible means and natural resources have been used for the expression of this art.

In terms of cultural significance, Gond painting reflects the religious beliefs, traditions, and social structure of the community. These paintings often contain images of nature, plants, animals and mythology, which highlight the deep spiritual and cultural heritage of the Gond community.

In recent years, Gond painting has received recognition at the national and international level. It is not only an important expression of tribal culture, but has also become an important part of Indian culture and art.

Gods, Folklore and Religious Beliefs

The following points need to be considered to know about the gods, oral stories and religious beliefs that are central to the imagination of Gond artists as the subject matter of Gond paintings:

Gods

The images of gods and goddesses in Gond paintings often reflect folk beliefs and their religious faith. Some of the major gods and goddesses include:

• Padapen or Badadev: He is the main deity of the Gond community. He is worshipped as the deity by the Gond tribal group. He is considered equivalent to Mahadev.

• Lingopen: He is the god of arts and a form of Shiva. He is considered the father of all arts including dance and music

• Thakurdev: He is considered the village protector.

Besides these, gods like Hardulala (Patel Baba), Dulhadev, Bhainsasur, Khilamithua, Pathdev, Bhimulpen, Divagongo (Surya), Khanderai, Maradev etc. and goddesses like Kheromai, Gavradai, Chandi, Gangain Mai, Banjarin Mai, Budhi Bhavani, Panghat Dai, Khokhli Dai, Seven Sister Mothers (Chilkan, Chaban, Kodhan, Phodan, Regan, Phoolan and Fulesh) etc. are worshipped. These are depicted in Gond paintings as per the ritual themes.

Oral stories:

Traditional oral stories and myths are particularly important in Gond paintings, as they are part of the memory of the Gond community as well as reflect their cultural identity, religious beliefs, and traditions. These paintings are a medium to artistically depict their history, beliefs, and vision of life. Let us understand some important folk stories and myths in detail:

1. Jal Katha:

According to a traditional story, earlier there was water everywhere. Bhimuldev plowed in that water, which led to the creation of the earth. According to another story, the idea of ​​creating man came to Mahadev's mind. He asked the crow to bring soil! The crow went into the water in search of soil. He saw a crab. The crow said to the crab - Bring some soil from somewhere brother, Mahadev has to make a human! The crab caught an earthworm and pressed its stomach. The crow took the soil that came out of it and gave it to Mahadev. Mahadev made a man's effigy from it, breathed life into it and put an axe in its hand. He was called Baiga. He went to the forest and did not return. Mahadev made another doll from the remaining soil and breathed life into it and gave it a plough. Using the plough, he started farming. He was called Gond. This story is a major traditional story of the Gond community, which tells about the origin of earth and creatures from water and their prosperity.

2. Dhanushkatha:

Dhanushkatha is a mythological or historical story, which symbolizes power, bravery and struggle. There is a main hero or warrior in this story, who displays unique bravery through his arrow-bow. This story represents the stories of those heroes who fought with their courage and patience and protected the society. In Gond paintings, along with this story, images of arrow-bow and those warriors are marked, which represent the culture and social structure of that time. This story reflects the power and spirit of struggle of the Gond society.

3. Vriksha Katha:

Vriksha Katha holds an important place in Gond paintings, as this story depicts the deep connection of the Gond community with the flora. The people of the Gond tribe worship nature. Trees play an important role in their religious and cultural life. In this story, trees are shown as a symbol of life, which not only provide oxygen but also symbolize the spiritual and material prosperity of the society. Various parts of trees, such as leaves, flowers, fruits and roots, are depicted in Gond paintings through different colors and shapes. These paintings tell the importance of trees and spread the message of worshiping and preserving them.

Cultural significance of Gond paintings:

The purpose of Gond paintings is not limited to the expression of art, but they are a medium to preserve the cultural heritage of the Gond tribe and pass it on to future generations. Through traditional stories and myths, the Gond society portrays its beliefs, traditions and principles of life. The colours and designs used in the paintings also reflect the deep connection of the Gond society with the environment.

We can say that the stories and myths depicted in Gond paintings are not just art forms, but they are also an important part of the cultural identity of the Gond community, which keeps their traditions and beliefs alive.

Religious beliefs:

Religious beliefs and traditions are deeply embedded in Gond paintings. These beliefs generally focus on the worship of nature, ancestors and divine power:

1. Worship of Nature: Gond paintings depict the worship and rituals of natural elements such as trees, animals, birds, mountains etc., which are considered an integral part of life

2. Worship of Ancestors: Gond society worships its ancestors and depicts them in their paintings as a tribute.

3. Spirituality: Gond paintings depict spiritual themes, which depict various gods and goddesses and their stories.

Colours and shapes play an important role in Gond paintings. Through this art the religious and cultural identity and traditional stories of the Gond community remain alive.

Depiction of Religious Rituals in Gond Paintings

Gond painting is a famous Indian art form, traditionally practised mainly by the Pardhan community of the Gond tribal group of Madhya Pradesh. This community is art loving and engaged in various traditional arts including dance and music. Religious rituals are also depicted in traditional Gond paintings. The depiction of religious rituals in Gond paintings is based on the following key points:

1. Religious symbolism: Gond paintings use specific symbols and designs to depict religious rituals. It includes symbols of deities, worship of nature, and traditional rituals. For example, the paintings depict figures of deities, puja samagri, i.e., flowers, lamps, and other sacred objects.

2. Style and color: Gond paintings are usually identified by bright colors and traditional style. Depictions of religious rituals often use bright colors, such as deep red, yellow, and green, which reflect religious significance.

3. Nature and myth: Gond paintings are closely related to nature and myth. While depicting religious rituals, artists also include those elements of nature i.e. earth-sky, sun-moon, trees-mountains, animals-birds, rivers etc., which are associated with religious beliefs and myths. For example - some Gond paintings depict the worship of river or mountain deities.

4. Rituals and ceremonies: The depiction of religious rituals in Gond paintings reflects the special ceremonies and worship methods of that community. It depicts the place of worship, the method of worship, and the process of ritual. Such depictions show how religious ceremonies are a part of local life and how they are celebrated.

5. Culture and tradition: The depiction of religious rituals in Gond paintings reflects the cultural and traditional beliefs of the Gond tribe. This art form exchanges social life, religious traditions and tribal beliefs.

6. Traditional Realism: Religious rituals are depicted in Gond paintings not in a realistic manner but in a highly poetic and imaginative manner. This depiction reflects the beliefs of the Gond society and their spiritual experiences.

Thus, the depiction of religious rituals in Gond paintings is important from the cultural and religious point of view, which gives a glimpse of the tribal life and their beliefs.

Characteristics and Techniques of Gond Painting

The characteristics of Gond paintings are vibrant colours, poetic designs and natural elements. The technique involves painting using natural colours and leaf extracts, along with descriptive depictions and traditional symbols. The paintings depict tribal life and religious rituals.

Style and Design

The distinctive style and design of Gond paintings distinguish it from other art forms. Gond painting, done by the Gond tribe of Madhya Pradesh, is famous for its unique imagination, unique philosophy of life and vibrant colours.

Style: The style of Gond paintings is mostly abstract and poetic. In this, objects and figures are presented not in a realistic manner, but with imaginative abstraction and colourful perspective. The paintings often depict natural elements such as plants, animals, birds and human figures in unique forms and patterns.

Design Elements:

The design elements in Gond paintings are very distinctive. Some of the key elements are:

1. Organic design: The paintings use fine details and intricate patterns. Animals, humanoids, and plants are designed using lines and dots, creating intricate, fascinating, and colorful patterns.

2. Use of colors: Colors are of utmost importance in Gond paintings. Traditional colors for painting are made from natural sources, such as leaves, flowers, and minerals. The brightness and depth of the colors add to the liveliness and emotional impact of the painting.

3. Symbols and symbolism: The paintings include religious and cultural symbols, such as images of gods and goddesses, myths, and scenes from traditional rituals. These symbols reflect the beliefs and traditions of Gond society.

4. Carvings: The paintings are often carved in black and white, giving the design an added depth and breathtaking visual imagery.

Thus, the style and design elements of Gond painting express its cultural identity and distinctiveness, giving it a unique place in the world art scene.

Colours and Materials Used

Gond painting is done by the Pardhan community of the Gond tribal group of Madhya Pradesh. This painting is famous for its colourfulness and uniqueness. The choice of colour and material is very important in this art form, as it reflects the liveliness and cultural tradition of the paintings.

Colours:

The use of colours in Gond paintings is very thoughtful. The following colours are commonly used in traditional Gond paintings:

1. Red: This colour symbolises enthusiasm, energy and strength. Red is used in religious rituals, special ceremonies and depictions of deities.

2. Blue: Blue symbolises peace, sky and water. This colour is often used in paintings to depict rivers, sky and other natural elements.

3. Green: Green colour represents nature, greenery and vitality. It is especially used in depictions of plants and wildlife.

4. Yellow: Yellow colour symbolises enthusiasm and wisdom. It is used for brightness and light in deities and religious symbols.

5. White and Black: White colour represents purity and peace, while black colour represents depth and mystery. Black colour is especially used to make the boundaries and designs of the painting clear.

Materials:

The materials used in Gond paintings are traditional and natural. The main materials include:

1. Natural colours: Gond paintings use natural materials such as plants, soil, stones, and minerals to make colours. For example, charcoal is used for black colour, hematite (a type of red clay) for red colour, and turmeric for yellow colour

2. Painting surface: Traditional Gond paintings are done on paper, cloth, and walls. Paintings painted on walls are often used as interior decoration of the house, especially in rural areas.

3. Brushes and tools: Fingers and natural brush strokes are used instead of brushes in Gond paintings. Some artists also paint with the help of stones.

4. Natural gums: Natural gums or resins are used to stabilize the colours in the painting, which helps the colours to stick firmly to the surface.

5. Canvas: Though traditionally the paintings were done on walls or clay, modern Gond artists have started using canvas as well, which helps in preserving and displaying the paintings.

The combination of these colours and materials gives Gond paintings their uniqueness and cultural identity. The choice of each colour and material reflects the cultural beliefs, religious rituals and lifestyle of the Gond tribe, making this art form not only a visual experience but also a cultural document.

Basic Techniques: Simple Techniques and Pattern Making Methods

The basic techniques and pattern making methods of Gond painting are a major part of the uniqueness and beauty of this art. These techniques are simple yet effective and have been developed with traditional knowledge and experience. Here is a detailed description of the basic techniques and pattern making methods of Gond painting:

Basic Techniques:

1. Background Preparation: At the beginning of the painting, the artists prepare the background. Traditional Gond paintings are usually done on walls, cloth or paper. The background is cleaned to make it flat and smooth and is sometimes painted with natural colours.

2. Drawing: The first step of painting is drawing. Artists usually use light colours or natural colours. Drawing includes various shapes, forms, and designs. These lines establish the basic structure of the pattern.

3. Coloring: After drawing, the process of coloring begins. Gond paintings use natural colours, such as red, blue, green, yellow, and black. While adding colours, artists apply colours carefully so that no area is left without colour.

4. Patterns and designs: After coloring, artists add patterns and designs. These patterns can be simple or complex, and often use geometric shapes, dots, and wavy lines. The complexity of the design depends on the story and cultural context of the painting.

5. Finishing touches: In the last stage of painting, artists add finishing touches. This includes correcting the colors, clarifying the design, and sometimes adding additional details. Finishing touches enhance the completeness and clarity of the painting.

Ways to Create Patterns

1. Geometric Shapes: Geometric shapes such as triangles, circles, and squares are very common in Gond paintings. These shapes are often used in depictions of natural forms and deities. These patterns give a sense of balance and beauty to the art.

2. Dots and Lines: Dots and lines are used to create patterns. Dots are used especially in colourful designs, while lines provide structure and direction to the painting.

3. Traditional Designs: Traditional designs depict deities, animals, flora, and religious symbols. These designs reflect the cultural and religious beliefs of the Gond tribe.

4. Natural Elements: Natural elements such as trees, animals, and water patterns are incorporated in the painting. These elements are characteristic of Gond paintings and express the relationship between life and nature.

5. Repetition of Forms and Lines: Forms and lines are often repeated in Gond paintings. This creates a harmony and rhythm in the design, which makes the painting rich and attractive.

These basic techniques and methods of pattern making maintain the uniqueness and cultural significance of Gond Painting. This art form plays a vital role in keeping the cultural heritage of the Gond tribal group alive.

Contemporary Relevance of Gond Painting

The contemporary relevance of Gond Painting is increasing as it presents tribal culture and traditional beliefs on the platform of modern art. Its unique style and colours have given it recognition on the global art platform, giving a new life to cultural heritage and folk art.

Importance of Gond Painting in Modern Society

Gond Painting is the traditional art of the Gond tribal group of Madhya Pradesh, which holds special importance in today's modern society. Its importance is not only limited to its historical and cultural heritage, but this art form is also playing an important role in contemporary art, social consciousness and economic development.

Cultural Identity and Heritage

Gond Painting is an integral part of the cultural identity of the Gond tribe. This art form depicts tribal life, religious beliefs, and traditions. Gond Painting has served to preserve and propagate this cultural heritage in modern society. Many art museums and cultural institutions are exhibiting this art form, thereby increasing the recognition of tribal art at the global level. It not only preserves the cultural identity of the Gond community but also introduces others to their heritage.

Contribution to Art and Design:

The unique style and technique of Gond Painting has become a source of inspiration in modern art and design. Its vibrant colors, traditional patterns, and poetic designs have inspired many contemporary artists and designers. Elements of Gond Painting are being incorporated in various art projects, fashion design, and interiors. This art form not only presents traditional design in a modern context but is also being used in new areas of art and design.

Social and Economic Impact

Gond Painting has also contributed significantly to the economic development of the Gond community. Artists are getting fair price and recognition for their work, which is improving their economic condition. The growing popularity of Gond painting has empowered the local art market and also encouraged various businesses related to it. Promoting this art form has generated employment opportunities in rural areas, thereby improving the economic condition of the community.

Education and Awareness:

Many efforts are being made to spread education and awareness of Gond painting. Through art-workshops, cultural programs, and educational campaigns, people are being told about the technique and importance of Gond painting. This not only increases respect and understanding for the art, but also makes the society aware of the depth and diversity of tribal culture.

Global Recognition:

Global recognition of Gond painting has also increased in the contemporary art scene. Exhibition of Gond paintings in international art exhibitions, museums, and art-fairs has presented it on the global platform. This has not only recognized the uniqueness of Gond painting, but through this, the diversity and richness of Indian folk art has also been recognized.

Ways to promote Gond art

Gond art is an important part of Indian tribal art. There are many effective ways to promote it. These ways help in preserving, promoting and getting recognition for Gond paintings globally. Some of the major ways are detailed here:

1. Social and cultural events:

Art festivals and exhibitions ... Public awareness campaign: Media, social media, and other promotional mediums can be used to increase public awareness about the importance and cultural value of Gond art.

3. Commercial initiatives:

Art markets Special art markets or boutiques for Gond paintings need to be set up where art lovers and collectors can purchase Gond artefacts. This will help make the art form economically stable. Commercial partnerships: Incorporating Gond painting designs into various commercial products, such as fashion, home decor, and stationery, will increase the popularity of Gond art and make it accessible to different audiences.

4. Cultural Preservation

Documentation and Archiving

Document the style and technique of Gond paintings and preserve them in museums and archives. This will preserve the history and evolution of Gond paintings.

Preservation of Traditional Techniques

Ensure preservation of traditional colours and techniques. Maintain the use of natural colours and materials so that the uniqueness of traditional art is maintained.

5. Economic and Community Support

Art Training and Employment

Provide training and employment opportunities to artists for Gond painting. This will provide economic benefits to local artists and preserve the art

Governmental and Non-Governmental Support

Promote government grants and support from non-governmental organisations for Gond art. The progress of art can be promoted through financial assistance and resources.

6. Presentation on the Global Platform

Participation in International Art Fairs

Present Gond paintings in international art fairs and exhibitions. This will increase the recognition of art at the global level and establish contact with international audiences.

Contribute to diversity: Connecting Gond Painting with other global arts and culture, allowing it to gain recognition in different cultural contexts.

7. Digital Platforms and E-commerce:

Online Galleries and Sales: Exhibiting and selling Gond Paintings on online galleries and e-commerce platforms. This will help reach international audiences and gain global recognition for the art. Social Media Promotion Promoting the depiction style and technique of Gond Painting on social media, including sharing stories of artists, work process and gallery showing. Promoting Gond art in these ways will not only protect its cultural heritage but will also help the art form establish its identity on the global platform.

Need for Conservation

Gond Painting, a unique style of tribal art of India, is famous for its distinctive depiction style, traditional symbols and cultural heritage. This art displays the cultural identity and social history of the Gond tribe. However, the need to preserve this amazing art form is of utmost importance and there are many reasons for this:

1. Preservation of cultural heritage

Gond paintings are an important part of the lifestyle, beliefs and traditions of the Gond tribe. Stories, myths and religious beliefs of the tribal community are depicted through this art. By preserving it, we can not only save the art form but also preserve the cultural heritage.

2. Protection of traditional techniques

The techniques and materials of Gond painting are traditional and use natural colours, clay and natural brushes. Preservation of these techniques not only saves the tribal form of art but also provides education about these traditional skills to future generations.

3. Global recognition and respect

The growing global recognition of Gond painting has brought it to an international platform. By preserving it, we can keep this art preserved and respected globally. It encourages artists and increases the value of the art.

4. Economic incentives

Initiatives related to the preservation of Gond paintings can provide economic benefits to local communities. This will enable Gond artists to get proper recognition and compensation for their work, thereby improving their lifestyle and economic condition.

5. Educational and Cultural Initiatives

Efforts to conserve Gond paintings can be aided by education and promotion of art through educational programs, workshops and exhibitions. It makes the younger generation aware of their cultural heritage and enhances the understanding of art.

6. Environmental and Cultural Heritage

The use of natural colours and traditional techniques also reflects environmental balance. By conserving Gond paintings, we can protect not only cultural but also environmental heritage.

• Conservation Measures: Educational initiatives Art education through workshops, educational programs and dedicated art schools.

• Digital Preservation: Saving art on digital mediums and showcasing it through online galleries.

• Financial Support: Financial incentives and government support for local artists and art projects.

• Exhibitions and Art Shows: Organizing exhibitions of Gond paintings and using various platforms to promote art.

By conserving Gond paintings, we can preserve the invaluable heritage of this art and keep it alive for generations to come.

Prominent Gond Artists and Conclusion

Among the prominent Gond artists, Late Jangarh Singh Shyam has been very famous. He is remembered as the renaissance of Gond Painting. Jangarh ji's distinctive dot and line style is famous. Ms. Durga Bai Vyam and Mrs. Nankushia Bord Shyam, wife of Late Jangarh Singh Shyam, are other popular names. These paintings bring myths and folk tales to life. Shri Bhajju Singh Shyam is one of the young artists who has earned international fame through Gond Painting. For his outstanding achievements in this art, he has been honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India. Apart from him, Shri Anand Singh Shyam, Shri Gariba Singh Tekam and Venkat Singh Shyam are also known for their vibrant and unique style. Let us know about them in detail:

Their Contribution and Style - Late Jangarh Singh Shyam, Durga Bai Vyam, Bhajju Singh Shyam, Gariba Singh Tekam

Late Jagad Singh Shyam:

Contribution:

Late Jangarh Singh Shyam is considered to be the renaissance of Gond painting. He has given recognition to Gond painting not only in India but also at the international level. The famous painter J. Swaminathan brought him from village Patan of tribal dominated district Dindori to Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal. After that he gave a new perspective to his traditional art and started painting it on canvas. His efforts gave Gond painting a place in mainstream art.

Style:

Jangarh's style has a distinctive use of dots and lines. His paintings typically feature intricate and detailed patterns, depicting stories of nature and tribal life. His work prominently features animals, trees and tribal myths, which are important elements of Gond culture.

Shri Durgabai Vya

Contribution:

Ms. Durga Bai Vya is one of the leading female artists of Gond painting. She has depicted the struggles and sufferings of Gaud women in a narrative manner through her art. Her paintings showcase the roles of women and their contributions. Her art has given a voice to the women of the Gond community and helped improve their social status.

Style:

Ms. Durga Bai Vya is characterized by the extensive use of colors in her style. Her paintings are a contemporary depiction of traditional Gond myths and stories. She uses animals, deities, and elements of nature in her art, which reflect the religious and cultural beliefs of the Gond tribe.

Shri Bhajju Singh Shyam

Contribution:

Shri Bhajju Singh Shyam is a disciple of Late Jangarh Singh Shyam. He has followed in the footsteps of his guru and has given Gond painting a global recognition. His art has won him many international awards and honors. His book "The London Jungle Book" has particularly attracted the attention of the international community. He has been awarded the Padma Shri for his outstanding achievements in establishing Gond traditional painting on the world stage with his extraordinary talent.

Style:

Shri Bhajju Singh's style involves deep effects of details and intricacies. He presents modern themes using traditional Gond patterns. His paintings use unique color combinations and eccentric symbols, which symbolize his creativity and cultural heritage.

Shri Gariba Singh Tekam

Contribution

Shri Gariba Singh Tekam is one of the leading artists of Gond art. He has kept alive the traditions and religious beliefs of the Gond tribe through his art. His art has given a new perspective to the life of the Gond community and has earned him recognition at the national and international level.

Style:

Shri Gariba Singh Tekam's style combines the elements of traditional Gond painting with modern techniques. His paintings have vibrant colors and intricate designs, which depict Gond myths and stories. They depict the relationship between nature and human life in a wonderful way, which makes their art unique.

Apart from these, there are many other artists who have not only carried forward the traditional art heritage of Gond painting but have also enriched it by developing their own original style and given it a new identity. Certainly, Gond painting has established it as an important art form by presenting the culture of this community on the global stage.

Differences between Old and New Gond Painters

There are several significant differences between the old and new painters in the world of Gond painting, which are reflected in their style, technique, and subject matter.

Old Gond Painters

The old Gond painters painted their art traditionally on walls and floors, using natural colors and materials. Their paintings mainly depicted religious and cultural stories, tribal myths, and elements of nature. Paintings were then often done during religious rituals and festivals, with each painting having a specific cultural significance. Traditional Gond painters saw their art as a means of keeping the stories of their culture and community alive.

New Gond Painters

The new Gond painters have adapted the traditional style and combined it with new mediums and techniques. Paintings are now done on canvas, paper, and other modern surfaces. Modern Gond painters such as the late. Jangarh Singh Shyam, Shri Bhajju Singh Shyam, Ms. Durga Bai Vyam, Shri Gariba Singh Tekam etc. have brought global recognition to their art by their new and original experiments in traditional art. Their paintings depict traditional themes as well as contemporary life and social issues. The use of colours has also become more vibrant and elaborate and more attention is paid to details.

Differences in technique and style

The technique of the old Gond painters was mainly based on dots and lines, using geometric patterns and traditional symbols. The new painters follow these techniques but present them in new ways, such as the use of mixed colours, elaborate designs and modern painting styles.

Contemporary significance

The new Gond painters have presented their art not only at the Indian but also at the international level, giving Gond painting a new identity and respect. Their contribution has played an important role in the economic and social development of the Gond community.

Thus, the difference between the old and new Gond painters can be clearly seen in their style, technique, and subject matter, which reflects the evolutionary journey of Gond painting.

Conclusion

Gond painting is a distinct and rich style of traditional Indian tribal art, developed by the Gond tribe living in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Odisha. The main attraction of this art is its vibrancy and skill expressed through traditional symbols. It is the cultural identity of the Gond community. The most prominent feature of Gond painting is its style, which uses dots, lines, and geometric shapes. This art uses natural colors, such as flowers, leaves, and clay, which give the paintings a special kind of natural glow and beauty.

Gond paintings depict natural elements, such as animals, trees, and landscapes, as well as cultural and religious symbols. These paintings often include traditional oral stories and myths of the Gond tribe, reflecting various aspects of the community's life. Through these symbols of art, the Gond people keep their traditions, religious beliefs, and social structure alive.

The preservation of Gond painting is extremely important as it not only preserves the cultural heritage of the Gond tribe, but also maintains the rich and diverse form of art. Several steps have been taken towards its preservation, such as educational initiatives, workshops, and art exhibitions, which have proved to be helpful in bringing this art to the global stage. In addition, digital archiving and global recognition have promoted the dissemination of this art, leading to Gond painting gaining international recognition.

The future of Gond painting requires continued financial support, educational programs, and conservation efforts. It is important to encourage local artists and give due recognition to their art, so that they can continue their traditions and their passion for art. Thus, Gond painting is not only an art form but also an integral part of the cultural identity and historical heritage of the Gond tribe, which we need to preserve and promote.