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The Ketha Tree and the Tortoise
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The Ketha Tree and the Tortoise

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Hema Baiga

From the lesser-known Baiga community of Madhya Pradesh comes Hema Baiga, one of the rare practicing voices preserving the fragile art of Baiga painting. Born into a family that lived close to the forests, Hema grew up deeply immersed in the rhythms of nature, seasonal festivals, and rituals that defined Baiga culture. While Baiga traditions have historically been preserved through oral storytelling, Hema found her canvas to be a medium to record and express these sacred memories. Her paintings are characterized by earthy motifs, sacred animals, and forest deities, all depicted with an immediacy that feels raw and authentic. Unlike Gond or Warli, Baiga painting remains vastly undocumented, making Hema’s work even more significant as it safeguards a cultural practice at risk of being forgotten. Over the years, she has participated in national exhibitions, taking Baiga art beyond her community for the first time. Through her work, she not only creates visually striking paintings but also documents the lived experiences, rituals, and spirituality of her people.

Description

The Ketha Tree and the Tortoise by Hema Baiga, created in the traditional Baiga art style, beautifully illustrates themes of strength, patience, and the steady journey of life. The painting features a Ketha tree growing on top of a tortoise, surrounded by a squirrel and a parrot. The tree symbolises endurance and stability, while the tortoise, with its slow and steady movement, represents wisdom, longevity, and the natural rhythm of life. The tortoise’s unhurried pace serves as a reminder that growth and change occur gradually, in harmony with nature’s cycles. This artwork reflects the Baiga people's deep connection to time, balance, and the natural world. The intricate patterns and earthy colours bring the scene to life, emphasising the beauty of slow and steady progress. Through this painting, the artist encourages us to embrace patience, trust the journey, and find wisdom in the gradual unfolding of life.

$ 529.99
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What is Baiga painting?
Baiga painting is a traditional art form created by the Baiga tribe in central India. It features nature-inspired designs like animals, trees, and geometric patterns, often symbolizing spirituality and harmony with nature. The paintings are made using natural materials such as clay or rice paste and are used in rituals and ceremonies.
What materials are used in the creation of your Baiga paintings?
Baiga paintings are made using white clay, rice paste, and natural pigments from plants and earth. Artists use brushes made from twigs or other natural tools.
How should I care for my Baiga painting?
To care for your Baiga painting: 1. Keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. 2. Store in a dry place to avoid moisture damage. 3. Dust gently with a soft cloth or brush. 4. Frame it to protect it from dirt and damage. 5. Avoid touching the painted surface to keep it clean.
Are the paintings framed or unframed?
Baiga paintings are usually unframed but can be framed for display and protection if desired.
Can I commission a custom Baiga painting?
Yes, you can commission a custom Baiga painting. Many artists are open to creating personalized works based on your preferences, such as specific themes or designs, while still following the traditional style.