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Tribal Art
The Friendship of Owl and Snake
Created by Ramesh Katara
Sold by Rooftop Collections
Description
In Bhil art, the friendship of Owl and Snake by Ramesh Katara blends strength, mystery, and agility in a captivating way. The majestic owl spreads its wings wide. It stands tall on long, snake-like legs. This bird symbolizes the strong link between wisdom and resilience. The bold colors and patterns make the artwork lively. They show the balance between nature's opposing forces. This captivating work shows the joy of surprising friendships. It celebrates the connections found in nature.
Non-cancellable
This product cannot be cancelled once the order is placed. This item is non-returnable.
$ 159
In Stock
What is Bhil art?
Bhil art is a traditional folk art form from the Bhil community in India, known for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and storytelling elements. It often depicts themes from nature, mythology, and daily life.
Who is Ramesh katara?
Ramesh katara is a renowned artist from the Bhil community, celebrated for his unique style that blends traditional techniques with contemporary themes. He has gained recognition for his contributions to Indian art and has showcased his work nationally and internationally.
What materials are used in Bhil paintings?
Traditional Bhil Paintings typically uses natural pigments derived from minerals and plants, along with handmade paper or cloth as canvas. This commitment to traditional materials adds authenticity to the artwork.
How can I care for my Bhil painting?
To preserve your painting, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid using harsh chemicals for cleaning; a soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient for dusting.
Are Bhil paintings suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! Bhil paintings make thoughtful and unique gifts for art lovers and those interested in cultural heritage. Each piece tells a story, making it a meaningful present for any occasion.
Ramesh Katara
Ramesh Katara, a Bhil painter from Madhya Pradesh, is a self-taught artist who, despite having no formal training, inherited a remarkable sense of form and colour that defines his mesmerising artworks. Inspired by pioneering Bhil artists such as Gangu Bai and Bhuri Bai, Ramesh reimagines his community’s belief in the world of gods and demons, transforming these oral and ritual traditions into visual narratives. A recurring focal point in his work is the sacred hill of Kokkida, with motifs drawn from the Bhil pantheon and folk tales.
His initiation into painting began at home, observing his mother create shapes on the walls of their house—forms that the family worshipped during rituals. Encounters with the traditional Pithora paintings and figures such as Likhandara further deepened his fascination with shapes and storytelling. Over time, Ramesh developed his own visual vocabulary, drawing from everyday life, community rituals, and festivals. His works frequently depict subtle yet extensive representations of rites, ceremonies, and seasonal festivities, embedding the collective memory of his community into his art.
What makes Ramesh’s art distinctive is his unique ability to translate the imagery and stories of festivals into paintings. His dotted compositions, executed with rhythmic precision, embody the Bhil aesthetic tradition while also expanding its expressive range. He has actively participated in several painting camps and exhibitions across India, where his works have gained recognition for their vibrant yet contemplative quality.
His skilful use of multihued dots creates wave-like ripples that echo both indigenous symbolism and contemporary visual appeal. Known as “Dotted Diamonds”, Ramesh Katara has adopted a unique technique of using rhythmic clusters of diamond-shaped dots to form shapes and patterns. They employ shades of pink, orange, and brown on a blush background, while Sunbeam radiates with pastel yellows and greens, each adorned with delicate metallic finishes. These compositions not only affirm his rootedness in Bhil traditions but also demonstrate his ability to innovate within them, carrying indigenous brilliance from generations past into the present.
Unique Practice
A symphony of multicoloured and rhythmic dots