| The traditions of Indian painting go back many | | | | medieval times Color is an important element to |
| centuries and can be seen in the cave murals of | | | | Indian art and various techniques are used to produce |
| Ajanta, the Buddhist palm leaf manuscripts, and the | | | | the most intricate designs that are so exquisite. The |
| Kangra schools of miniature Indian painting. Indian | | | | themes of much of their work are based on Kings |
| painting was a common practice within many | | | | and other rulers of their country and the Gods and |
| households who would paint their walls and doors | | | | Goddesses of their religion. |
| with exquisite natural scenes. Indian paintings are rich | | | | Thanka Painting revolve around Buddha and ritual |
| in color. They are bold and vibrant, yet refined and | | | | works. In these works the dragons dominate both in |
| sophisticated. There is an aesthetic pleasure that can | | | | flow and form. It dates back to the 10th century and |
| be found in modern day art and the art of civilizations | | | | became a popular form when Buddhism began to |
| of the past. From the beginning of time Indian Art | | | | spread beyond Tibet. Glass painting dates back to |
| has been steeped in the religions of the Indian culture. | | | | the 16th century were they were first used to adorn |
| Over the years various traditions have merged to | | | | places of worship. Using semi precious stones, gold |
| form a compelling modern art form that still is rich in | | | | leaf, and gilt metals they were able to produce some |
| cultural and religious traditions of the Indian people. | | | | of the most magnificent glass paintings known to |
| Miniature paintings have a long history in India. At first | | | | man. Kalamkari is another popular Indian technique |
| glance these small paintings would seem to be | | | | which uses burnt tamarind twigs dipped in molasses |
| nothing more than a clutter of masculine and feminine | | | | and iron fillings to create the outline. Then varying |
| figures. Yet there is so much more to these | | | | shades of vegetable dyes are used to paint the |
| miniatures. They are actually an expression of the | | | | scenes. Many works of Kalamkari are based on |
| basic movements of Indian dance. They are | | | | mythological themes with figures that are larger than |
| emotional creations that depict the musical modes of | | | | life. |
| classical music in India, and they date back to | | | | |