Reviving India’s Timeless Artforms: How Our DIY Art Kits Bring Tradition to Your Home
Overview
India’s artforms are more than just decorative, they are living stories, passed down through generations, holding deep cultural meaning. From the intricate lotus patterns of Pichwai to the earthy textures of Lippan, each form reflects the spirit, traditions, and soul of its region. At Doodlez, we have woven these traditions into easy-to-use DIY art kits, making them accessible for everyone, regardless of skill level. And because we believe in preserving these traditions, we have also started an Instagram playlist series to educate our audience about the history, significance, and unique techniques of each artform. This blog will take you through the rich heritage of the artforms we use, their importance, and why it is vital to keep them alive, one kit at a time.
Pichwai Art
History & Significance: Pichwai originated over 400 years ago in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Traditionally painted on cloth, it depicts intricate scenes from the life of Lord Krishna, especially around festivals like Janmashtami. The art form is known for its detailed lotus motifs, vibrant colors, and deep spiritual meaning.
Why We Preserve It: Pichwai is a fading artform due to its complexity and time-consuming process. By bringing it into our kits, we ensure that more people can experience the meditative beauty of creating Pichwai-inspired pieces while learning about its cultural roots.
Warli Art
History & Significance: Warli, from Maharashtra, is one of the oldest tribal artforms in India. Its simple geometric figures tell stories of village life, harvests, and celebrations, all painted in earthy tones.
Why We Preserve It: Warli’s minimalism is perfect for beginners, yet its storytelling depth makes it universally captivating. By including it in our kits, we help ensure this artform continues to inspire beyond its traditional village walls.
Gond Art
History & Significance: Gond art, rooted in the tribal communities of Madhya Pradesh, is vibrant and full of intricate patterns. It often depicts nature such as animals, trees, and rivers in a highly stylized manner.
Why We Preserve It: Every Gond piece reflects harmony with nature. Bringing Gond art into DIY kits lets people reconnect with the environment while appreciating indigenous culture.
Mandala Art
History & Significance: The Mandala, meaning "circle" in Sanskrit, is an ancient symbol representing balance, unity, and harmony. Though rooted in spiritual traditions, it has gained global appeal as a meditative art form.
Why We Preserve It: In our fast-paced lives, Mandala drawing oers a calming, mindful experience. Our kits make it easy for anyone to start, even without prior experience.
Lippan Art
History & Significance: Lippan Kaam, or mud-mirror work, comes from Kutch, Gujarat. Traditionally used to decorate homes, it is known for its textured clay designs and shimmering mirrors that reflect light beautifully.
Why We Preserve It: By transforming Lippan into easy-to-create kits, we allow people to experience the tactile joy of working with clay while keeping this unique architectural art alive.
Attangudi Tiles
History & Significance: Attangudi tiles, from Tamil Nadu’s Chettinad region, are handmade terracotta tiles with intricate geometric or floral patterns. Their bright, glossy finish is instantly recognizable.
Why We Preserve It: While originally an architectural craft, we have adapted Attangudi-inspired patterns into art projects, so people can engage with this heritage from the comfort of home.
Kalighat Painting
History & Significance: Emerging in 19th-century Kolkata, Kalighat paintings are bold, colorful, and often satirical, depicting social themes, gods, and goddesses.
Why We Preserve It: Kalighat art’s vibrant style and storytelling flair make it ideal for creative exploration. In our kits, it inspires people to think, paint, and reflect on both tradition and modernity.
Why Education Matters
While selling these kits is part of what we do, our deeper goal is to educate. Through our Instagram playlist series, we break down the history, symbolism, and techniques of each artform, making them approachable for all. When someone understands the story behind the pattern, every brushstroke feels more meaningful.
The Bigger Picture: Preserving Heritage Through Play
Traditional artforms often face the risk of being forgotten as modern lifestyles shift. By making them hands-on, fun, and functional, we keep them relevant in today’s world while helping people slow down and create something lasting.
Bring the beauty of India’s traditions into your home. Shop our DIY Indian artform kits today and create something that is not just art, but history in your hands. Whether for yourself or as a gift, every kit is a journey into culture, creativity, and connection.