India is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage. This involves differences in nearly everything – from food to language and art to attire. Notably, every nook and corner of the country has its own distinctive art form. Moreover, different regions have their own unique style of dressing that represents their culture. Every form of art found in India is undeniably mesmerizing. Imagine these unique art forms meeting the sophistication of the fashion industry. Undoubtedly, the results are astonishing and absolutely unique. Lets take you through 9 Indian art forms that are used in fashion.

1. Madhubani Paintings

Born in the Mithila region of Bihar, Madhubani paintings are also referred to as Mithila art. The art form depicts scenes from Indian mythology. It uses eye-catching geometrical patterns and vibrant colours. Additionally, Madhubani paintings involve different characters, and elements from nature. Generally, these paintings have intricate details. Leaves and flowers adorn the paintings, leaving no blank spaces. Madhubani art is used on sarees, kurtis, dupattas and more. Madhubani paintings on outfits give a very distinctive and defined look to any apparel. 

Institutions across Mithila actively practice the art form. Some of these include Vaidehi and Benipatti in Madhubani, Kalakriti in Darbhanga, and Gram Vikas Parishad in Ranti. 

2. Pattachitra Art

The history of Pattachitra goes back to over 1000 years. It is known to be one of the oldest Indian art forms. In essence, Pattachitra is popular for its use of vibrant colours, attractive motifs, gorgeous depiction of mythological characters and intricate detailing. Today, the artwork is paving its way into the Indian fashion industry to create eye-catching apparel. From traditional outfits such as sarees and ghagra-cholis to modern tops and dresses, designers are exploring the versatility of this art form. This integration is blessing the world with unique and absolutely stunning garments. 

Today, you will find the best Pattachitra art done around small villages. Some of them are Raghurajpur, Paralakhemudi, Chikiti and Sonepur. 

3. Kalamkari Artwork

‘Kalamkari’ – the word literally translates to art with a pen. This art form was born to illustrate stories that could be carried around on a canvas. In contrast to being painted on stone structures or the walls of historic monument. This form of painting involves earthy colours such as green, brown and black, and designs such as leaves, trees and flowers. Consequently, today the fashion industry rightly recogises Kalamkari. Moreover, the outfits with Kalamkari designs give you the perfect balance of ethnic elegance and modern charm. You will find Kalamkari art done in Srikalahasti of the Chittoor district, and Machilipatnam of the Krishna district in Andhra Pradesh. 

4. Kalighat Art

Native to the Kalighat region of West Bengal, this art form was developed in the mid-19 century. Even today, the art is practiced in the Medinipur and Birbhum regions. It represents different deities from Hindu mythology and scenes from epics like Ram Charitra Manas and more. However, the distinctive characteristic of this art form is its flawless stroke, brushwork and bold designs. Consequently, in the modern world Kalighat art is considered abstract. Printed on T-shirts, shirts, sarees, kurtis and other apparel, Kalighat art is a precious gem for the Indian fashion industry. 

5. Bagh Prints

Bagh is a traditional form of hand block prints that holds a reputed place in the fashion realm. This form of handicraft originated in a village on the banks of the Bahini river in Madhya Pradesh. The practice is still alive in this region. It uses prints and motifs such as floral, paisley and geometric designs. As a matter of fact, the artists extract the paint pigment from vegetables. Fashion enthusiasts love Bagh prints for the soft sophisticated look and feel. 

6. Chikankari 

This intricate art of shadow embroidery originated in the city of nawabs – Lucknow. You will find Chikankari artisans flourishing in every corner of the city. It is among the most loved fabrics by the ladies as it gives an elegant and contemporary look. In addition, the fabric is so light and comfortable that you can wear it any day, anywhere, without any hassle. Artists use Lucknowi Chikankari embroidery to design ethnic dresses.

7. Mughal Painting

This form of painting is exhaustive. It depicts not just the the Mughal kings and queens, but also bouquets of flowers, and other flora in a distinctive style. This came in as a fresh form of art in India. Nonetheless, it is beautiful and gripping. This form of art came to India with the reign of the Mughal empire and stayed forever for good. Today, one can find outfits and accessories adorning Mughal paintings. The look makes for a bold statement. You will find the sight of original Mughal paintings in museums as only some artists in Lahore have kept the art alive. However, in cities like Mumbai and Delhi, one may fid modernized version of the art .

8. Warli Painting

Warli painting is a tribal art form that is native to the state of Maharashtra primarily found in the Sahayadri region. The painting, correspondingly resembles the everyday life of the people of the Warli community. Moreover, they showcase social rituals and is heavy in natural elements. Furthermore, these paintings consists of rice paste on mud walls. Therefore, they have a distinctive brown and white combination. The fashion world has adopted this Indian art form to create stunning outfits. Moreover, the traditional combination of brown and white compliments nearly all Indian attires, making it a perfect fit for all.

9. Gond Painting 

Not just the flora but the fauna also are perfectly balanced with clam earthy tones are the prime elements in Gond art. The Gond tribe of Madhya Pradesh developed this intricate art form. Subsequently, it is primarily practiced in Patangarh Village in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh. Gond art is part of following states Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. In essence, the beauty of the art lies in it’s use of fine dots and lines. Gond art form when used in beautifying fabrics results in timeless pieces of clothing.

The Indian subcontinent is home to numberless unique art forms, which are bold and simply compelling. These traditional art forms are now paving their way into the fashion world. Furthermore, they are aiding the fashion revolution. These art forms give traditional outfits a modern charm. Consequently, with the help of designs adopted from these traditional art forms, Indian fashion looks skillful and exceptional.

Also read : The Tales Of The Chikankari Artist Community & Their Art for a detailed look into the art of Chikankari

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