Padma Shri Bhuri Bai is a celebrated artist who has won accolades for her artistry, and this painting by her is a beautiful addition to any home. In this Bhil artwork, a four-headed blue serpent stretches across the canvas in a protective embrace, shielding her delicate eggs as they rest within. Her flat, elongated form exhibits power and grace. This is a symbol of maternal instinct. The intricate patterns and bold hues reflect the rich traditions of Bhil artistry, where nature and mythology intertwine. Measuring 22x15 inches, the painting is easy to display in any setting. This size allows the detailed patterns and storytelling to be appreciated, bringing a unique cultural touch to the space.
As the unhatched lives rest safely under her watchful gaze, the painting speaks of protection, patience, and the eternal cycle of life. If you are looking for eclectic Indian artwork to enhance your space, this Bhil Masterpiece is a win! Open to interpretation and endless observation, with this painting, you bring home a timeless piece of Indian art.
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This product cannot be cancelled once the order is placed. This item is non-returnable.
$ 249
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"Are these Indian paintings handmade?
Yes. Indian Art Paintings on Rooftop are hand-painted by master artists across the country. This one is made by Padma Shri Bhuri Bai
Where can i learn more about Bhil art?
You can learn more about Bhil art with our Artventure Books, Courses By Bhuri Bai herself and through an encyclopedia of knowledge on Artwiki by Rooftop.
Do artists get Royalty for their paintings?
Yes, absolutely! At Rooftop, we believe in supporting our artists and preserving traditional Indian art. Each time a painting is sold, the artist receives a fair share of the proceeds. We also collaborate directly with artists to ensure they are compensated for their skill, time, and cultural contributions. By purchasing a painting from Rooftop, you are not only acquiring a beautiful piece of art but also helping to sustain the livelihoods of talented Indian artisans.
Are frames included with the painting?
No, frames are not included with the paintings. The frames in the images are for representational purposes only.
Bhuri Bai
Bhil Artist || Tribal Storyteller || Global Inspiration
The first Padma Shri awardee from the Bhil artist community, Bhuri Bai started painting at the age of 10. A native of Pitol village in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh, she was discovered by Jagdish Swaminathan, artist and co-founder of Bharat Bhavan, who became her mentor and led her to start her artistic career.
Bhuri Bai found her love for painting right in her childhood, she would find herself in awe of the beautiful figures and elements being painted on walls on festivals and marriages and even special rituals. Her curiosity and admiration of the art had a strong grip on her and led to inculcating a deep love for it. Married at the age of 14 to Jor Singh, she moved to Bhopal and started working as a waged labourer along with her husband to build the Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal. Here, her paintings on stones were discovered by Swaminathan, who encouraged her to start painting on paper. Her first set of paintings fetched Rs.50. Here on, started a journey which took her around the world where she shared about her tribe, her art and made her a global persona.
Bhuri ji not only started her practice but also started training others in the art. Interestingly her first student was Jor Singh! She recalls that he was a quick learner since he had a good understanding of the themes and could relate to it.
After she began working as an artist full time for the MP State Tribal Museum she developed her own style and a celebrated body of work. Used to making her own colours from flowers and leaves she also learnt how to use new mediums and began colouring with synthetic colours. Her works include her life in the village, her childhood, rituals of the community and more. Characterised by bold and vibrant colours, multicoloured dots and compositions comprising nature, humans and often both together with modern day cars, her work is truly one of a kind.
In her work, aside from traditional compositions on nature, tribal rituals and Bhil deities one also sees her experiences around the world. She was the first from her community to paint on paper and canvas and continues to set precedents in her field, inspiring several artists, especially women from other tribal communities.
Her works have been displayed in many exhibitions, galleries and museums not only in India but also internationally such as in Australia and the United States. Her painting ‘Story of the Jungle’ was auctioned at Sotheby’s New York in 2007. She has also illustrated for various publications such as Bhili Kathayein, Bhil Janjateetya Geet and Lok Akhyan in addition to being a regular contributor to Chaumasa magazine. Bhuri bai also illustrated a children’s book, A tree, by Klara Kottner-Benigni. She has also co-authored an autobiographical work, Dotted Lines, with Debjani Mukherjee.
Bhuri Bai continues to light the way for others in her community to pursue art. It is our honour to have her as a member of the Rooftop Artists network and Indian art course programs. Her love for the art, her storytelling and the determination to take the humble artform to heights is truly inspiring.
Unique Practice
One of the first Bhil artists to paint on paper and canvas
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