Kalamkari is one of the most ancient Indian art forms which got its identity from the art of storytelling on cloth. There are two styles of Kalamkari and the Srikalahasti style of Kalamkari is where a “kalam” or pen is used to create freehand drawings which are filled in with colours like blue, yellow and green. To give our Circle Members the experience to learn and enlighten themselves about this ancient art form, Rajasthan Studio curated a Kalamkari Painting Workshop and invited Manasa Shastry. 

Manasa’s love affair with art dates back to her school days which had to suffer a halt for her studies. She has a degree in Digital Media and Animation. She has worked as a motion graphic artist. Later falling back to her art and making it her full time profession. She says that acrylic, watercolour, traditional and wall art are her preferred medium these days. She was always been fascinated by traditional art and took up Kalamkari as a medium. 

Kalamkari Painting Workshop Began

The workshop began with Manasa Shastry introducing herself and how she was going to educate the participants about the art of Kalamkari while they created the intricate art form with her. She spoke about the forms of Kalamkari and other literary details about the traditional art form while guiding everyone through each step towards the final product. 

While Mansa went forward with the workshop she spoke about how important it is to adopt and promote traditional art. Also, how everyone can contribute to it even by spreading awareness about Kalamkari to two or three people around them. She slowly taught everyone present about strokes and painting the artwork after the sketch was complete. 

Towards The End Of The Workshop

While moving towards the end Manasa Shastry explained how each traditional art has its own version of the tree of life. She also explained how they can create different forms in their own style. The workshop ended with everyone showcasing their work. 

The attendees were also from different parts of the country. Also, they belonged to different age groups but their love for art brought them together on a single platform. Rajasthan studio as always was successful in connecting artists and curating a magical and positive vibe together. 

On this note, here’s us signing off until next time!

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