The history of origin of paintings dates back to
prehistoric times when ancient civilizations were still exploring new
horizons in various arenas. From the earliest Bhimdetka paintings found
on caves in Madhya Pradesh, to extremely meticulous expressions of this
fine art today, paintings reveal an undying spirit of creative genius
inherent in man.
Depending on different cults, beliefs, lands and philosophies followed
by men folk of varying eras, the art of painting has been divided into
myriad schools or types. Madhubani, Kangra, Pichwais, Kalamkari, Warli
folk, Phad, Thanka and Pata Chitra are a few schools of art that boast
of patronage since the Mughal era. Each of these traditional paintings
depict images of gods and goddesses, excerpts from mythological stories,
scenes pertaining to erstwhile royal houses and portrayals of scenes of
everyday life. The techniques of rendering colors, the type of colors
used, the base material used for painting and the varying effects
employed to embellish diverse images, is what imparts a distinct style
and ornamentation to these paintings.
The traditional Indian paintings have carved a niche for themselves as
they not only embark the beauty but also the aesthetic value of the land
to which it belongs. They place themselves at the highest position when
it comes to the export of Indian art and crafts in the international
domains.







