MURAL PAINTING, KERALA
Mural painting in Kerala is a distinctive and vibrant art form that has a rich historical and cultural heritage. This traditional form of painting is primarily found on the walls of temples, palaces, and churches in Kerala. Here are some detailed aspects of Kerala mural painting:
Historical Background
Origins:
Kerala mural tradition began in the 8th century AD, with early examples found in the temples of the region. The art form was influenced by the Dravidian style of South India, evolving uniquely over time.
Development:
The period between the 15th and 18th centuries is considered the golden age of Kerala mural painting, particularly during the reign of the Chera and later the Travancore kings. These rulers were great patrons of the arts and commissioned many temples and palaces to be adorned with murals.
Influences:
Kerala murals show a synthesis of local artistic traditions with influences from the Ajanta cave paintings, which are considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art.
Themes and Subjects
Religious Themes:
Hindu Mythology: The majority of the murals depict stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Key scenes include the battle of Kurukshetra, the abduction of Sita, and the divine exploits of Krishna.
Deities: Gods and goddesses such as Vishnu, Shiva, and their various avatars and consorts are prominently featured. Each deity is depicted with specific iconographic attributes that signify their divine qualities.
Secular Themes:
Some murals reflect everyday life in historical Kerala, including scenes of farming, royal courts, festivals, and nature. These provide a valuable glimpse into the socio-cultural life of the time.
Symbolism:
The use of color and composition in Kerala murals is highly symbolic. For instance, the color red often symbolizes valor and sacrifice, while green represents prosperity and fertility. The positioning and gestures of the figures also convey deeper philosophical and spiritual meanings.
Techniques and Materials
Surface Preparation:
Walls are coated with a special mixture called ‘aruval’ plaster, made from lime, sand, and plant extracts. This creates a smooth, durable surface ideal for painting.
Pigments:
Natural Sources: Colors are derived from natural materials: red from laterite soil, yellow from turmeric, green from leaves, blue from indigo, and black from soot or burnt rice husks.
Binding Agents: Traditional adhesives such as plant resins and coconut water are used to mix the pigments and bind them to the wall.
Brushes:
Brushes are traditionally made using the fine hair of squirrels or mongoose, which allows for intricate detailing.
Painting Process:
Sketching: The design is first sketched onto the prepared wall using a basic outline.
Layering: Colors are applied in layers, starting with the lightest shades and gradually adding darker tones for depth and detail.
Final Touches: Fine details and intricate patterns are added last, bringing the figures and scenes to life.
Preservation and Revival
Challenges:
Environmental Factors: Humidity, rain, and temperature fluctuations in Kerala’s tropical climate can damage murals.
Neglect and Modernization: Many murals have suffered due to neglect or have been destroyed during modern renovations.
Restoration Efforts:
Institutions like the Kerala Mural Painting Institute in Guruvayur and various NGOs are dedicated to preserving and restoring these artworks. They train artists in traditional techniques and undertake restoration projects.
Contemporary Adaptations:
Modern artists are incorporating traditional mural techniques into contemporary artworks, blending old themes with new mediums and formats.
Cultural Significance
Kerala murals are not just artistic expressions but also serve as a repository of the region’s religious and cultural history. They play a crucial role in keeping alive the stories and traditions of ancient India, offering insights into the region’s past. The murals are celebrated for their aesthetic value and their ability to convey complex narratives through visual art.
Conclusion
Kerala mural painting is a vibrant testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. The detailed craftsmanship, vivid colors, and profound storytelling captured in these murals make them an invaluable part of India’s artistic legacy. Ongoing efforts to preserve and revive this art form ensure that it continues to inspire and educate future generations.
