Kalamkari Painting 4

alamkari is an art that involves weaving and hand block printing apart from painting. The figures with rounded shapes and border designs are typical of Kalamkari. Wall hangings, prayer mats, waist bands and dress materials like women's petticoats, children garments, and caps are popular Kalamkari products.

The Kalahasti tradition which developed in the temple region mostly concentrated on themes form Hindu mythology, epics (Ramayana, Mahabharatha), images of Gods and heroes. The art practiced in Masulipatnam is influenced by the Persian and British patterns. The two cities are still the major centers of the ancient art.

Masulipatnam style is more famous for the home furnishings, bed covers and curtains but the traditional Kalahasti style is more prominently seen in wall hangings and dress materials.

The basic technique for both the forms is same except that Kalahasti style uses only the Kalam i.e. the pen and Masulipatnam uses hand blocks and Kalam both. The cloth and color are first decided. The cloth is first bleached with goat or cow dung and then treated with Myrobalan and milk solution to avoid the color spreading.

The painting is done using iron acetate resist for solid spaces or outlines and alum is used as mordant. Color dyes are all natural. Wax resist is used for dying the cloth in different colors. Since the whole process involves natural colors and chemicals, the art has fast gained a place for itself in the international markets. Murals, wall hangings, paintings, household linen, and scarves are treasured possessions of any household in India.

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