Kerala Mural - Astonishing Painting Process of this World-Famous Art

Kerala murals are a vibrant and intricate form of art that originated in the Indian state of Kerala. With roots dating back to the 8th century, these murals adorn the walls of temples, palaces, and churches, narrating mythological tales, religious themes, and cultural traditions. Famous for their distinctive style and rich detailing, Kerala murals are created using a unique process that showcases the perfect blend of skill, tradition, and devotion.

What Kerala Mural Painting Art is all about?

Leading contemporary artist and painter Shantala Palat shares some interesting aspects of these wonderful paintings

The Essence of Kerala Murals

Kerala murals are renowned for their bold lines, elaborate patterns, and harmonious color palette. The themes often depict Hindu mythology, with gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana taking center stage. These murals not only serve as decorative art but also as visual storytelling that embodies Kerala’s cultural heritage.

What sets Kerala murals apart is their adherence to traditional methods and materials, which have remained largely unchanged over centuries. The process, deeply rooted in ancient practices, is as fascinating as the artwork itself.

The Preparation of the Surface

The mural painting process begins with preparing the surface. Traditionally, walls made of lime plaster are used as the canvas. This plaster is a mixture of lime, powdered seashells, and natural adhesives. The surface is carefully polished to create a smooth base that can absorb the natural pigments used in the painting.

Modern-day artists sometimes adapt the technique to work on other surfaces like cloth or canvas, but the foundational preparation remains the same.

Outlining the Design

The next step involves sketching the design directly onto the surface. Artists use a charcoal stick or a mixture of natural dyes to outline the figures and patterns. This step requires precision and expertise, as the entire composition must adhere to strict rules of symmetry and proportion.

The intricate details in the sketches highlight the artist’s mastery over anatomy and geometry, ensuring every figure and motif is visually balanced and aesthetically pleasing.

Natural Pigments and Colors

Kerala murals are celebrated for their vibrant colors, derived entirely from natural sources. The five primary colors used are red, yellow, green, black, and white. These are extracted from minerals, vegetables, stones, and other natural materials.

For example, red is derived from red laterite stones, yellow from turmeric or yellow ochre, and black from burnt coconut shells. The pigments are mixed with a binding medium like tree resin to ensure they adhere well to the surface.

Layering and Detailing

The painting process involves layering these natural colors onto the outlined sketches. Each layer is meticulously applied to build depth and vibrancy. The colors are carefully blended to create gradients, giving the mural its signature ethereal look.

Once the base colors are applied, fine detailing begins. Artists use delicate brushes to add intricate patterns, facial expressions, and ornamental elements. This step can take weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the mural.

Final Touches and Preservation

The final step involves adding finishing touches, and enhancing the overall composition. To protect the artwork, a thin coat of natural varnish is applied. This not only preserves the painting but also enhances its colors, ensuring its longevity.

The creation of a Kerala mural is more than just an art form; it is a labor of love and a testament to the region’s cultural legacy. The astonishing process, rooted in tradition and nature, has earned Kerala murals global recognition as a symbol of timeless artistry. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a cultural explorer, experiencing these masterpieces is nothing short of awe-inspiring.