Objective

The objective of this class is to understand the tradition, technique, and cultural significance of Bhil Painting. We will discuss the introduction, features, materials, techniques, major artists, contemporary influences, folklore, and fusion art of Bhil Painting, so that you can get a deeper understanding of this unique art form. First of all, let’s know where Bhil Painting is made.

History of Bhil Painting

The history of Bhil Painting is centuries old and it is deeply connected to the cultural heritage of the Bhil tribe. The Bhil tribe, one of the oldest tribal communities in India, has been depicting their stories, beliefs, and traditions through their art and culture. Bhil painting began with the use of natural colors and simple tools, using colors made from tree bark, clay, crushed colored stones, flowers of plants, etc.
If we put Bhil painting and prehistoric painting together, we find many similarities.Initially this art was made on walls during religious, social rituals and festivals, in which stories of gods and goddesses, nature, and tribal life were depicted. Dots, lines and geometric shapes have special importance in the style of Bhil painting, which makes it different from other tribal arts. Lines have special greatness in Bhil paintings of Rajasthan. Today Bhil painting is not only an important part of Indian art, but it also reflects the depth of tribal life and its traditions.
Although the history of Bhil art is not clear, it is believed to be a centuries-old tradition. Over time, Bhil painting has evolved from being a household art to a popular art form. It is an art passed down from one generation to another, with most painters learning it from family members and elders, adding to its uniqueness. The traditional art of the Bhil community adorned the walls of mud houses in their villages. Beautiful paintings were made from branches of neem, bamboo, date palm, khakhra and other trees, and natural colours were used. Turmeric, flour, vegetables, leaves and oil were used to make bright colours, which were used to paint attractive paintings on floors and walls. It was a language that Bhil artists developed to express their experiences.

Introduction to Bhil Tribe

The Bhil tribe is one of the major tribal communities of India, whose history and culture is extremely rich and ancient. This tribe mainly resides in the forests and hilly areas of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra. The Bhil tribe is known for their bravery and love of freedom. In ancient times, Bhils were warriors, who were known for protecting their territory. Along with this, Bhils are experts in wild herbs and plants and Ayurvedic doctors (Bhil Tribal Medicine).
The lifestyle of the Bhil tribe is based on deep relations with nature. They depend on agriculture, hunting, and forest products. Traditional religious beliefs have an important place in Bhil society, in which nature, ancestors, and various gods and goddesses are worshiped. The art and culture of the Bhil tribe, especially Bhil painting, expresses their life stories, beliefs, and traditional knowledge. This tribe is also adapting to modernity while preserving its cultural heritage. Due to language change, the Bhil community uses various forms of Indo-Aryan languages, which are collectively called Bhil languages. The Bhil community is divided into several regional groups, which are further subdivided into various gotras and lineages.The Bhil tribe is listed as a scheduled tribe in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra. All these states are located in the region of western Deccan and central India. In addition, they also have a presence in the areas of Bengal and Tripura in eastern India, which are located near the border with Bangladesh. Today many Bhils now use the major languages ​​of their region such as Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Rajasthani, or a local Bhil dialect.

Characteristics of Bhil Painting

• Use of dots, lines and patterns: Bhil painters take out some time from their busy life to express community feelings, joy and entertainment moments through painting. Bhil painters have the freedom to create their own form, so their style of painting is also individual.
• Use of dots and lines: In Bhil painting, pictures are made through small dots and lines (dots and lines). These dots are of different colors and they are decorated in a specific pattern. Bhil painters easily find the subject matter for their paintings in physical, biological and environmental things.
• Use of patterns: Patterns are used in Bhil painting mainly to depict natural and geometric forms. These patterns include branches of trees, leaves, flowers and various geometric shapes. These patterns in a way reflect the life of the Bhil tribe and their deep connection with the environment. They do not make any special preparations to make their paintings, rather they absorb whatever they see in their surrounding environment and put it into their paintings.

Colour Selection: Natural and Synthetic Colours

Colour selection is an important aspect of Bhil painting, which adds vibrancy to the painting and adds to its cultural identity. Traditionally, Bhil artists used natural colours, but in modern times, synthetic colours have also started being used. Let us see how natural and synthetic colours are selected:

• Natural Colours:

  Traditional Bhil paintings used natural colours, which were obtained from plants, soil, and minerals. For example,

  • Red colour - from ochre (red soil),
  • Yellow colour - from turmeric,
  • Green colour - from leaves or flowers,
  • White colour - from lime or mortar,
  • Orange colour - from flowers of teshu (khakhara),
  • Black colour - from coal or burnt wood.
  • Some colours are also obtained from minerals.
• Synthetic colours:

  Not only are the colours easily available to them, but they also reflect the deep connection of the Bhil tribe with nature. The use of natural colours gives the painting a traditional and cultural look.
  Nowadays, Bhil artists have also started using synthetic colours. These colours are easily available and can be used with different depths and sheen. Synthetic colours, such as acrylic paints, watercolours, have a long-lasting durability and a wide variety of shades, allowing artists to expand their creativity.The use of synthetic colours makes the painting more bright and vibrant, but at the same time it also takes it away from the legacy of traditional natural colours.

Common Themes: Animals, Birds, Nature, Religious Depictions

The common themes of Bhil paintings reflect their tribal life, deep connection with nature, and religious beliefs. Let us discuss these themes in detail:

• Animals: Bird Paintings: The depiction of animals plays an important role in Bhil paintings. Usually, local wildlife such as deer, tiger, elephant, goat, cow, horse, and other animals are depicted. These paintings depict the Bhil community's traditional relationship with animals and birds and their lifestyle. Animals in the painting are often decorated through dots and lines and patterns, making them look lively and attractive.Depiction of birds is also a common theme of Bhil painting. Peacock, parrot, rooster and other birds are prominently depicted in the painting. The birds are presented colorfully and in detail, which highlights their natural beauty. The depiction of birds symbolizes the Bhil tribe's deep sensitivity towards nature and their religious beliefs.
• Nature depiction:  Nature is the focal point of Bhil painting. Trees, plants, flowers, rivers, mountains, etc. are depicted very beautifully. The depiction of trees, especially through dots, lines and patterns, is a distinctive feature of Bhil painting. This depiction not only shows natural beauty, but also reflects the deep relationship of the Bhil tribe with nature.
• Religious depiction: Religious and spiritual themes figure prominently in Bhil paintings. Gods and goddesses, Kalash, Nag Devta, Shiv Parvati, Swastika, Durga Mata, Panja, Trikon Puja rituals, and mythology are presented through paintings. This depiction reflects the religious beliefs and traditions of the Bhil community. Religious depiction uses traditional motifs and symbols, which gives spiritual depth to the art.

Through these common themes, Bhil painting not only narrates the stories of their lives, but also celebrates their cultural heritage and spirituality.

Materials and Technique

Colours, Brushes and Other Tools Used

• Colours:
  • Natural colours: Traditional Bhil paintings use natural colours obtained from plants, soil, stones and minerals. These colours usually include red, yellow, green, blue and black.
  • Synthetic colours: Contemporary Bhil painting also uses synthetic colours, which are more vibrant and stable. These colours increase the durability of the painting and provide brilliant effects.
• Brushes:
  • Handmade brushes: Traditional Bhil painting uses brushes made from bamboo cane or other natural materials such as Tesu Palash (Khakhra). The size of these brushes is individually customized according to the artist's needs.
  • Style and size: Painting techniques and patterns are created using different brush styles and sizes, such as small dots and intricate patterns.
• Other tools:
  • Pens and pencils: Pencils and other writing instruments are commonly used to help outline an image in sketching.
  • Metal and stones: Some traditional artworks also use metal objects and stones to apply color or decorate the image.

Method and process of painting

The method and process of Bhil painting is part of a rich tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. The process of creating this art requires patience, precision, and creativity. Let us understand the method and process of Bhil painting in detail:

• Surface Preparation: Before creating a Bhil painting, the surface on which the painting will be done is prepared. Traditionally, walls, walls of mud houses, or cloth were used. In modern times, artists use canvas, paper, or other surfaces. After the surface is smoothed and cleaned, a base color is applied, which is usually white or light.
• Sketching: The process of sketching involves lightly sketching the main subject of the painting. This sketch determines the structure of various elements of the painting, such as animals, birds, trees, or religious symbols. Traditionally, coal or charcoal was used for sketching.
• Dotting: The most distinctive process of Bhil painting is the creation of dots and lines. These dots (dots and lines) give liveliness and depth to the painting. Artists carefully apply tiny dots and lines in a pattern that spreads across the surface of the painting. The colours used for the dots and lines were traditionally natural, but nowadays synthetic colours are also used. A thin needle or brush is used to create the dots and lines.
• Colouring: After the outline and dots and lines are applied, the process of colouring the painting begins. The choice of colours depends on the theme of the painting and the creativity of the artist. Different parts of the painting are filled with different colours, making every part of the painting look special and vibrant.
• Patterns and Final Touches: After colouring, patterns are created. These patterns are in the form of geometric forms, natural shapes, or traditional motifs. The beauty of the painting is highlighted through these patterns. Finally, the painting is given final touches, in which necessary corrections and details are brought out.
• Drying and Preservation: Once the painting is ready, it is left to dry completely. After the drying process, the painting is preserved so that it remains durable for a long time. In traditional Bhil paintings, the painting was protected using ghee or natural varnish.

Layering and Sketching Techniques

Layering and sketching techniques play an important role in Bhil painting, as these techniques provide structure and depth to the painting. Let us learn about these techniques in detail:

1. Sketching Techniques:

Initial Sketching:

• Bhil painting begins with sketching, in which artists make a light outline of the pre-decided subject.
• Traditionally, charcoal or a thin stick was used for sketching, but in modern times pencil is also used.
• During sketching, artists determine the position and size of the main elements of the painting such as animals, birds, trees, and religious symbols.

Planning the Motifs and Designs:

• Sketching involves planning the motifs and designs for dots and lines and patterns.
• Bhil artists create preliminary designs using geometric shapes, circles, triangles and lines.
• This process of sketching serves as a guide for the final form of the painting, in which artists put their ideas into a concrete form.

2. Layering Technique:

Base Layer:

• After sketching, the first layer of the painting is prepared. In this layer, artists use a base color, which is usually white or a light color.
• This base layer helps to connect all the elements of the painting and provide them a uniform background.

Layering the Dots:

• The most important process of layering is the creation of dots and lines.
• Artists create multiple layers of dots and lines in different colors.
• In each layer, the dots and lines are arranged in a specific pattern, which brings out the depth and detail of the painting.
• During layering, the dots and lines are gradually increased, which brings variety and liveliness to the painting.

Layers of Colors and Patterns:

• In the process of layering, the artist gradually adds layers of colors and patterns.
• Patterns and shapes are highlighted using different colors in each layer.
• This process gives depth and detail to the painting, so that each layer is placed on top of the previous layer, and ultimately a rich and complex picture is created.

Final Layer and Touches:

• In the final process of layering, final touches are given to the painting.
• In this, the details of dots and lines, colors and patterns are further highlighted, so that the painting looks complete and lively.

Prominent Artists and Contemporary Influences

Here we will highlight those artists who have created Bhil paintings and have been awarded the Padma Shri award, as well as the names of some artists who have taken this art forward.

Famous Bhil Artists: Some Prominent Names and Their Contributions

Many artists have contributed significantly in getting Bhil painting recognized at the national and international level. Some of these artists have also been awarded prestigious awards like Padma Shri for their excellence. Let us take a look at these artists:

Padma Shri Awarded Bhil Artists:

• Padma Shri Bhuri Bai: Bhuri Bai is a prominent Bhil artist who took Bhil painting to new heights through her unique style and creativity. She was born in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh. She was the first female Bhil artist to create Bhil paintings on paper and canvas. Bhuri Bai was honoured with the Padma Shri award in 2021, which is a testimony to her contribution and bringing recognition to Bhil art worldwide.
• Padma Shri Lado Bai: Lado Bai is another famous artist of the Bhil tribe, whose painting style has special use of dots, lines and colors. She was born in Madhya Pradesh, and gave a new direction to Bhil painting. She has also been awarded the Padma Shri Award for her remarkable contribution.
• Padma Shri Jivya Soma Mashe: Jivya Soma Mashe is a leading artist of Bhil painting, who was awarded the Padma Shri Award for his excellent work. He is a resident of Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh and preserves the traditional style of Bhil painting. His work has a unique use of dots, lines and colors, which makes his paintings vibrant and distinctive. Jivya Soma Mashe's art has played an important role in giving global recognition to Bhil painting.

Prominent Bhil artists of Rajasthan

• Dimple Chandat (Adi Gaurav Award recipient artist): Dimple Chandat is a prominent Bhil artist of Rajasthan, she has given a unique identity to her traditional Bhil art in the country and abroad. In the year 2024, she has been awarded the Adi Gaurav Award by Her Excellency Madam President for outstanding work in the field of art.
• Phulaji Pargi: Phulaji is the most senior artist of the Bhil tradition style. He mainly does wall painting work. He is a leading artist of depiction of tribal daily life.
• Gomaji: Gomaji is a resident of the remote Aravalli region of Udaipur. He has created Bhil paintings based on subjects contained in nature.

Place of Bhil Painting in Modern Art

The place of Bhil painting in modern art is important and unique. Traditional Bhil painting, which is an integral part of the tribal art of India, has now gained an important place in the global art scene. Its contemporary influence and acceptance can be understood through the following points and lines:

• Preservation of Cultural Heritage:Bhil Painting has preserved the cultural heritage of Indian tribal art in modern times. This traditional style still enjoys high recognition among art enthusiasts and collectors, which preserves it as a living cultural heritage.
• Fusion in Contemporary Art: Modern artists have presented a new approach by combining the elements of traditional Bhil Painting with contemporary art. In this fusion art, traditional dots and lines and patterns have been combined with modern colors and techniques, giving birth to new art styles.
• Art Exhibitions and International Platform: Bhil Painting has been displayed in many international art exhibitions and galleries. These exhibitions have brought Bhil Painting to a global audience, increasing the international recognition of its art and culture.

Conservation and Future of Bhil Painting

1. Conservation

Several efforts are being made to conserve Bhil painting, which is an important part of Indian tribal art. These efforts include the following aspects:

Preservation of traditional techniques:

• Workshops and training programmes are being organised to preserve and teach traditional techniques of Bhil painting, such as the use of dots and lines and patterns, and the use of natural colours.
• Young artists and community artists are being taught these traditions so that the art can survive from generation to generation.

Social and cultural initiatives:

• Bhil painting is being included in cultural programmes, performances and fairs. This creates awareness about the art and helps in its preservation.
• Communities are being encouraged to maintain their cultural heritage so that they can preserve their traditional art.

Use of science and technology:

• Modern techniques are being used to conserve colours and materials. The paintings are being stored and preserved in a proper manner so that they do not get destroyed with time.
• A digital archive of Bhil painting is being created using digital technologies, so that it can be stored and preserved online.

2. Future

The future of Bhil painting is bright, and there are many possibilities and directions for its development:

Modern and traditional styles:

• In the future, Bhil painting can prosper by combining modern techniques and traditional styles. New experiments and fusion art methods can give it a new direction.
• Young artists can develop new styles and methods by combining traditional techniques with a modern approach.

Global recognition and market:

• The recognition of Bhil painting is increasing in global art forums and galleries. Its demand and popularity in the international market may increase in the future.
• The global reach of Bhil painting will increase through art fairs, exhibitions and online platforms, which will provide new opportunities to artists.

Educational and Research Initiatives:

• Education and research of Bhil painting can be promoted in educational institutions. This will make the new generation aware about the importance and techniques of this art. The Government of India is also trying to promote its online education by creating a portal.
• Research and documentation will help in understanding the depth and diversity of Bhil painting.

Community Development and Art Opportunities:

• Community development programs and incentive schemes can be implemented to encourage Bhil painting.
• Financial assistance and support for art will help Bhil artists to develop and promote their work.
• Through these efforts and possibilities, Bhil painting will not only preserve its cultural heritage but will also create an important place in the world of art in the future.

Religious and Cultural Beliefs

Bhil Painting is not just an art form but it also symbolizes the religious and cultural beliefs of the Bhil tribe. The cultural identity, religious beliefs, and traditional beliefs of the tribe are expressed through this art. Let us discuss the religious and cultural aspects of Bhil Painting in this section:

1. Religious Beliefs

Serpent God (Naag Devta):

• Worship of the snake god is an important religious practice in the Bhil community. It is believed that the snake god provided agriculture and other essential knowledge of life to humanity.
• In the painting, the snake god is particularly depicted with colorful patterns and elaborate designs. In this depiction, various colors and symbols are used to show the religious significance of the snake god.

Ancestor Worship:

• Ancestor worship also has an important place in Bhil Painting. It is believed that the spirits of ancestors are important for the direction and preservation of life.
• In the painting, images of ancestors and scenes of their worship are depicted, which reflect the religious beliefs of the tribe.

Natural and Religious Rituals:

• Bhil paintings also depict religious rituals and ceremonies, such as places of worship, images, religious songs, and rituals.
• These paintings depict the process of traditional religious rituals and their significance.

2. Cultural Beliefs

Worship of Natural Elements:

• The cultural beliefs of the Bhil tribe show a deep connection with nature. Natural elements such as trees, mountains, and rivers are worshipped.
• In the painting, these natural elements are depicted with special colors and patterns. This depiction expresses the reverence and respect of the Bhil society towards nature.

Community and Traditional Life:

• Bhil paintings also depict aspects of the traditional life and society of the tribe. This depiction shows the diversity of tribal life and community cultural activities.
• The paintings depict traditional costumes, folk dances, and scenes from daily life, which cherish the cultural identity of the Bhil tribe.

Festivals and Celebrations:

• Festivals and celebrations are also depicted in Bhil paintings. These paintings depict the joy of festivals, cultural traditions, and mass celebrations.
• Scenes from major festivals such as Haat, Teej, and other cultural celebrations are depicted, which reflect the vibrancy and tradition of the tribal society.

 Fusion Art

Fusion art is a contemporary art trend in which traditional and modern art styles are combined. In this art trend, different art forms, styles, and techniques are combined to create new and unique art forms. In the context of Bhil painting, fusion art has provided a new way of presenting this traditional tribal art from a modern perspective.

Elements of Fusion Art

• Blend of traditional and modern styles:
  • Fusion art combines the distinctive styles of traditional Bhil painting, such as dots and lines and patterns, with modern art forms to create new designs.
  • Modern techniques and colours are used in traditional painting, giving rise to new forms of art.
• Use of new techniques:
  • Natural colours and techniques used in traditional Bhil painting are combined with modern art materials and techniques.
  • Bhil painting is given a new direction by using digital media, stencilling, and other modern techniques.
• Inclusion of social and cultural themes:
  • Fusion art depicts social and cultural issues through art. In Bhil painting, traditional stories and myths are depicted in the context of modern issues.
    
  • Social messages and cultural identity are expressed through art.

Examples of Fusion Art

• Bhil elements in modern painting:
  • Many contemporary artists have incorporated traditional elements of Bhil painting into modern painting. New colour schemes, contemporary designs, and stylistic changes are used.
  • For example, traditional dots and lines and patterns are combined with graphic design and abstract art.
• Mixed Media and Installation Art:
  • Fusion art also uses mixed media and installation art. Bhil paintings are combined with various media such as paper, cloth, and metal to create new artworks.
  • These artworks combine traditional techniques of Bhil painting and modern art forms.
• Digital and Virtual Art:
  • Fusion art of Bhil paintings is displayed on digital platforms. Traditional art is reimagined through digital illustration and animation.
  • Interactive art experiences are created using Bhil paintings in virtual reality and augmented reality.

Summary and Conclusion

Bhil Painting is a distinctive style of Indian tribal art created by the Bhil tribe of central and western India. This art is an important part of ancient traditions and cultural heritage. The characteristics of Bhil Painting, such as the use of dots and lines and patterns, use of natural colours, and socio-religious depictions, make it distinct from other art forms.

Key Points :

• History and Significance of Bhil Painting: Bhil Painting is deeply rooted in tribal traditions. This art form represents social and religious beliefs that are deeply embedded in the lives of the Bhil tribe. Since ancient times, this painting has evolved as an essential part of their lives, where it not only portrays their experiences but also reveals the cultural values ​​and beliefs of their community.
• Religious and Cultural Beliefs: Religious and cultural beliefs have a prominent place in Bhil Painting. The paintings emphasize the worship of the snake god, ancestor worship, and natural elements. The image of the snake god, which symbolizes the cycle of life and protection, is prominent in these paintings. Along with this, worship of nature is also deeply manifested in these artworks, such as trees, animals, and water sources. These beliefs reflect the cultural and religious significance of Bhil painting, which distinguishes it from other art forms.
• Folktales and Myths: The folktales and myths of Bhil painting, such as "Goda and Mandavi" and "The Myth of the Snake God", add deep narrative and cultural layers to the art. These tales are not only a means of entertainment, but they also reflect the moral values ​​and beliefs of life. The depiction of these tales in the paintings provides the viewer with a wonderful visual experience, which is not only visually but also intellectually rich. This interaction increases the depth of the art and involves the viewer in the rich culture of the Bhil tribe.