Chapter 1: Madhubani Painting Multi-Level Course

1. Artist Introduction – Padma Shri Dulari Devi

This module introduces you to the master artist, Padma Shri awardee Dulari Devi Ji, who is well known for her experience and work in the field of Bihar Madhubani painting.

2. Phase of Learning

Dulari Ji teaches techniques to draw simple Madhubani borders and lines, sharing her experiences from the beginning stages of her artistic career.

3. Padma Shri Award Story

Dulari ji recounts the story of how this great honour was bestowed upon her, and shares the joy and disbelief she felt during the occasion.

4. Present for the Prime Minister

Dulari ji touches upon the painting she had created as a present for Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, and what it felt like to meet him and give him her present.

5. Overcoming Challenges

Dulari ji opens up on the challenges she faced as a domestic servant when she began learning Madhubani art for the first time.

6. Artistic Journey

Dulari Devi talks candidly about her path as an artist and the importance of Madhubani painting in her life.

7. Hobbies and Teaching Experience

Dulari Devi shares some of her experiences as a teacher and talks about fostering the creativity of aspiring artists.

8. Musical Performance

Dulari Devi sings a rich and touching folk song from the Mithila region.

 

Chapter 2: History of the art form

1. Introduction of the Historian

In this module you will be introduced to Soma Gosh, Librarian and Social Media officer at the Salar Jung Museum. She will explain the origin, evolution, and cultural significance of the Madhubani art form.

2. Origin of the art form

Soma Gosh shares the etymology of Madhubani and the fascinating legend associated with it.

3. Development in art form

Soma Gosh talks about the significant artists who have shaped the growth and development of Madhubani art. She chronicles the evolution of this art form from its simple origins to its current complex and colourful form.

4. Theme of the art form

Soma Gosh explores Madhubani painting’s rich themes, variety of styles, and complex techniques, highlighting the diversity of Bihar Madhubani art.

 

Chapter 3: Artist Experience

1. Travel Experience

Dulari Devi shares her joy of travelling for the purpose of recording this series of lectures with Rooftop and expresses her gratitude for this opportunity.

2. Discovering Artists

Dulari Devi encourages us to embark on a journey of discovering new Madhubani artists and welcoming them into the vibrant world of this art form.

3. Mithila Art Institute

Dulari Devi recounts her time at the Mithila Art Institute. She expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow as an artist in such a nurturing and supportive environment.

4. Themes

In this video, Dulari Devi opens up about her artistic inspirations and the themes that have captivated her in her painting journey.

 

Chapter 4: History of Artform – Dulari Devi

1. History and Culture

Dulari Devi shares the extensive history of Madhubani folk art. Her storytelling unveils the layers of folk history, creating a deeper understanding of this cherished art form’s cultural significance.

2. Composition & Themes

Dulari Devi describes how she finds the inspiration she draws from her daily surroundings.

3. Mithila Experience

Dulari Devi warmly shares anecdotes that illuminate the colourful tapestry of Mithila’s local culture and traditions.

4. Biography of Dulari Devi

Dulari Devi fondly recounts the publication of her biography, “Following My Paint Brush,” by Tara Books. Through captivating folk art Madhubani-style illustrations, the book beautifully captures significant milestones from Dulari’s life.

5. Contemporary Forms

Madhubani painting has evolved from a sacred art form depicting deities and mythological stories to being expanded to include contemporary themes and social issues.

 

Chapter 5: Borders

Madhubani borders are intricate and vibrant patterns known for their geometric designs, floral patterns, and cultural symbols. These borders enhance the overall beauty of the artwork and have gained international recognition for their unique aesthetic.

 

Chapter 6: Basic Course

1. Chhath puja Madhubani painting

In the first module of Madhubani painting, the artist will teach you to make a chhath puja Madhubani painting. Using a pencil, you will carefully outlines the composition, capturing the essential elements and details of the traditional Madhubani style.

2. Step 1 – Outline of Main Image (Outlining)

After creating the pencil sketch, the artist proceeds to outline it with black colour paint.This step helps define the shapes and forms of the artwork, giving it a distinct Madhubani style. As she works, the artist also shares the significance of the Chhath festival, highlighting its cultural and religious importance to the Mithila community.

3. Step 2 – Adding elements (Outlining)

As the outlining progresses, the artist meticulously adds more elements, showcasing the intricate details that Madhubani painting is renowned for.

4. Step 3 – Decorating Borders (Outlining)

As the artist adds the final elements to complete the image outline, she devotes attention to decorating the border of the painting with intricate patterns. She shares the variety of designs that can be used to embellish the borders of Madhubani paintings.

5. Step 4 – Finishing Touch (Outlining)

As the artist adds the final few elements to complete the image outline, she carefully selects each element with cultural significance in mind.

6. Part 1 – Colouring Main Image and Background (Detailing)

You will learn to colour-block and apply solid blocks of colours to establish the overall composition and colour scheme.

7. Part 2 – Colouring Elements of the Image (Detailing)

You will learn to colour the various elements of the image.

8. Part 3 – Border and Finishing Details (Detailing)

In the final part of the process, the artist works on the border of the painting, adding intricate patterns and designs. You will learn how to highlight specific elements and ensure a harmonious and balanced composition.

 

Chapter 7: Intermediate Course

1. What will we learn?

In the intermediate level of Madhubani painting, we will explore the creation of a vibrant artwork depicting a regional deity and a festive celebration deeply rooted in folk traditions.

2. Intermediate Sketching

We first begin by creating the first sketch that narrates the captivating story of the folk deity. Through careful strokes of the pencil, the artist brings to life the essence and symbolism associated with this revered figure. 

3. Step 1 – Outlining the Main Image

In this step, the artist carefully outlines the main image using a fine brush or pen. This helps to define the shape of the subject, giving the artwork a clear and distinct appearance.

4. Step 2 – Outlining the Borders

In this step, the artist focuses on outlining the borders of the artwork. Using a steady hand and a fine brush or pen, she creates bold and defined lines along the edges of the painting.

5. Step 3 – Outlining the other Details

In the third step, the artist proceeds to outline the details with the main image. By outlining these details, the artist brings clarity and definition to the overall painting, elevating its visual impact.

6. Let’s start with Greens

In the fascinating world of Madhubani painting, colour is an essential element that brings vibrancy and life to the artwork. We embark on our colourful journey by exploring the lush greens. 

7. Paint it red

Next, we immerse ourselves in the captivating power of red. This passionate color evokes strong emotions and adds a dynamic energy to our artwork. As we carefully apply the rich red tones, our painting will begin to come alive.

8. Orange is the new black

Orange takes its turn on the canvas. This warm and vibrant colour brings a sense of warmth and radiance to the composition. With each delicate brushstroke, we layer the orange hues, creating depth and dimension, and infusing our artwork with a captivating glow.

9. Bright Yellow

Lastly, we embrace the brightness of yellow, like rays of sunshine illuminating our creation. This cheerful colour symbolizes joy and optimism, and it adds a sense of playfulness to our Madhubani masterpiece.

10. Adding the colour details

You will learn to add intricate colour details to enhance the overall composition. This involves carefully selecting and applying different hues and shades to specific areas, bringing depth and dimension to the artwork.

11. Part 1 – Detailing & Outlining

The next steps involve detailing and outlining different parts of the artwork. This meticulous process adds fine lines, patterns, and textures to further enhance the visual appeal and bring the artwork to life. 

12. Part 2 – Detailing & Outlining

We continue with the detailing and outlining of different parts of the artwork. This meticulous process adds fine lines, patterns, and textures to further enhance the visual appeal and bring the artwork to life.

13. Part 3 – Detailing & Outlining

We continue with the detailing and outlining of different parts of the artwork. This meticulous process adds fine lines, patterns, and textures to further enhance the visual appeal and bring the artwork to life.

14. Part 4 – Detailing & Outlining

We complete the detailing and outlining of different parts of the artwork. This meticulous process adds fine lines, patterns, and textures to further enhance the visual appeal and bring the artwork to life.

15. Adding the Finishing Touches

Lastly, you will add the final touches to complete the artwork. This may include adding any remaining details, refining the outlines, and making any necessary adjustments to achieve the desired aesthetic effect.

 

Chapter 8: Advanced Course

1. What will we learn

In the advanced level of our Madhubani painting journey, we delve into the story of King Janak’s discovery of Sita while ploughing the field. With this enchanting theme as our inspiration, we embark on a creative exploration of intricate details and expressive storytelling.

2. Advanced Sketching

Using the techniques mastered in the previous levels, we begin by sketching the key elements of the narrative, capturing the essence of the scene. We carefully outline the figures, capturing the emotions and dynamics of the characters involved. 

3. Step 1 – Outlining the Animal

The artist’s creative process in Madhubani painting begins with the crucial step of outlining the main animal in the composition. With meticulous precision, the artist carefully traces the contours of the animal, capturing its essence and bringing it to life on the canvas. 

4. Step 2 – Outlining the Pot and Sita ji

Next, the artist turns their attention to outlining the pot and the figure of Sita ji. These elements play significant roles in the narrative of the painting, and the artist’s skilful outlining ensures that their shapes and forms are clearly defined. 

5. Step 3 – Creating the borders

In this step, the artist focuses on creating decorative borders around the main image. These borders add an aesthetic element and enhance the overall composition of the artwork.

6. Step 4 – Outlining the villager

The artist proceeds to outline the villager in the painting, capturing the details of their attire and features. This step brings the character to life and adds depth to the narrative of the artwork.

7. Step 5 – Drawing Janak ji and few details

In the next step, you will learn to draw Janak ji and adds further details to the painting. This may include intricate patterns, accessories, or elements that contribute to the overall story being depicted.

8. Step 6 – Finishing touch

The final step involves adding the finishing touches to the artwork. The artist ensures that all the outlines are refined and precise, making any necessary adjustments to create a visually appealing and cohesive composition.

9. Let’s Begin the Magic of Colours

The artist begins by adding colours to the main image. This involves filling in the different areas with appropriate colours to bring the subjects to life. The artist carefully selects and applies colours that align with the desired visual representation of the image.

10. Add finer details

After completing the base colours, you will learn to add finer details. By carefully layering colours and adding subtle variations, the artist brings out the nuances in the artwork, creating a visually captivating and engaging piece.