Aipan- part 2

Art is an expression of life. From long time human beings exalted moments of happiness. Their feelings and emotions were reflected in different activities namely dance, music, lyrics, paintings, costumes etc. These are the areas where they have contributed well and found happiness and solace. Initially all these forms of art were in very primal form, just like a sprig which sprouts in rainy season at its own. In certain cases it was simple and earthen also. Gradually its canvas expanded but beauty of the folk art, still remain untouched.

In my last blog I wrote about Aipan. Aipan design changes according to the occasion it is made for. Here I am showing Dhuli Arghya Chowki .This aipan made on small stool at the time of wedding when the bridegroom is introduced and welcomed by the bride's family, he stands on the Chauki (small stool) only. Painted in a tree like figure with branches coming out on the top it resembles a pitcher with Shiva's Trishul or Trident on the top. At the base is Bramha the creator and in the middle Vishnu. In case the Aipan of a particular occasion is not known, a swastika is drawn. Swastika symbolizes creation and growth and encourages people to move ahead in the search of success.

You can see below how it take shape.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

step 5

close view

Aipan - Traditional art of Kumaon

Aipan is a traditional art (painting form) of Kumaon,Uttrakhand, India. The traditional aipan of Kumaon are drawn in linear art, geometrical design mostly drawn for religious and decorative purpose. Made with geru(ochre) and biswar(rice paste) Aipan is an integral part of kumaoni culture and its designs carried on from generation to generation

I grew up watching Aipan everywhere in my grandparents house .It was there at the main doors of the house and in the front courtyard ,mandir ,even the Tulsi pot was covered with Vasudhara(vertical lines,in odd numbers 5,7,9,11).Every Deepawali, I remember my grandmother making marvellous designs at the doorsteps using last three fingers of her hand . She would let me make circle with geru on the stairs and would follow making tiny foot prints of Lakshmiji and telling me that goddess will come at night to bless us with wealth and prosperity. My love for painting started with making those circles of geru with her and there she passed on me the tradition of Kumaon.

I have used acrylic paint to make the aipan shown in above pictures.