Discover different forms of Indian Folk Art – You have to see the Folk Paintings like Kalamkari, Tanjore, Madhubani, Warli, Pattachitra, Pahari and more
Folk Art of India is a posh expression of creativity that gives more importance to tradition than style. It exhibits our cultural identity and community values. If you are an art enthusiast, then indulge in the joys of Indian Folk Art. You see, the folk arts are a treasure trove that has been passed down for many ages. India is a land of diversities with a rich culture and heritage. Each state has its distinct form of art which speaks volumes about its values and traditions.
Folk art India
The different forms of Indian Folk Art are Folk Paintings, Folk Dances, clothes and ornaments with its significance. Folk dances like Bhangra from Punjab, Dandiya from Gujarat are viral forms. They are so popular that people forget their regional differences and take part in these performances. It is heartwarming to see most of the types being untouched by modernization, though a few have evolved.
| Region in India | Folk Art Paintings | Popular forms |
| Himalayas | Kangra or Pahari | Miniature Paintings, Pictorial art |
| Bihar | Madhubani, Manjusha, Tikuli | Paintings, Home decor, Traditional fashion |
| Odhisa | Pattachitra | Palm leaf panels, Canvas paintings |
| Bengal | Kalighat | Paintings, Scrolls |
| Maharashtra | Warli, Paithani | Wall decor, Serveware |
| Karnataka | Surpur, Gessoo | Home linen, Fashion |
| Tamil Nadu | Tanjore | Calligraphy, Paintings |
| Gujarat | Pithora, Mata ni Pachedi | Cloth or Paper pictures |
| Telengana | Batik, Nirmal, Cherial Scroll | Natural materials canvas |
Folk Paintings
The paintings were unique in their beauty in spite of the common themes of nature and mythology. Their eye for detail and combination of colours will leave you in awe of the rustic charm. Let’s learn a little more about forms prevalent in different parts of India.
a. Madhubani from Bihar
b. Pattachitra from Odhisa
c. Tanjore from Tamil Nadu
d. Warli from Maharashtra
e. Pahari from the Himalayas
f. Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh
g. Kalighat from Bengal
Do you know our Government of India and other organizations are putting their constant efforts to revive these folk-art forms? Make in India is one such great initiative by the Indian Government that promotes our art and culture. It has given a boost to our traditional folk artists to save the dying art forms.
Madhubani Painting
Mostly women of Bihar keep this art form alive. Paintings of deities like Rama, Krishna, Shiva and natural objects like Sun, Moon are a common sight. Empty spaces are filled with flowers, animals and geometric patterns.
Madhubani by Deepti Mittal 
Pattachitra Painting
This art form of Odhisa comes from the Sanskrit word “Patta” means Canvas and “Chitra” means picture. The canvas prepared using tamarind paste, soft clay and cloth. Jagannath Temple, Krishna Lila, incarnations of Vishnu and depiction of Lord Ganesha were their interests.
Pattachitra Painting
Kalighat paintings
Kalighat Pat is rooted in the 19th cen. Bengal by British patrons. And again embraced by the Indian modern artist Jamini Roy. The style emerged to depict Hindu gods. With the course of time, the style is diversified in many different styles.
Tanjore Paintings
It is an art of story-telling that will transport you back in time to catch a glimpse of the culture. A powdered limestone coated canvas was dried and used. This popular form is from Tamil Nadu.
Tanjore painting 
From Artzolo
Warli Paintings
With origins around the borders of Maharashtra and Gujarat, this form is popular for the use of white paint. Traditionally, Warli is the decoration of the walls of the village houses by women during festivals and marriages.
Pahari Painting
It originates in the Himalayan Hills region. The Rajput Kings patronized this form and created the intricate Kangra paintings.
Kangra Painting 
Kalamkari
Native to the state of Andhra Pradesh, it is a way of story-telling. The large canvas is made by dipping the cloth in buffalo milk and stiffening it. Then, wax covers the fabric which is then dipped in dyes. A bamboo or date palm sticks are used as brushes.
Kalamkari 
By Anuradha Sengupta
Folk Art designs for home
You can leave hints of traditional art forms in your personal spaces to enhance the look, for example:
- Use printed Tanjore or kalamkari silks and other fabrics for cushions, rugs, curtains, etc.
- Include folk painting wall art to give an exciting touch
- Strike a statement by placing a side table or a dressing table with beautiful artwork
- Let antique statues, doors and window panel adorn your home to get a luxurious and elegant look
Tips to a Folk decor
Here is a key decor pointer for you – folk art is not only about the decorative items, but it also includes our everyday objects. Coasters, food boxes, key chains and more are available where ancient art form meets and fulfils modern needs. You can opt to possess these contemporary pieces to accentuate your style statement.
Follow specific ground rules like researching the types of art forms, choosing the one that suits your taste, and purchase from the budget-friendly options available. Dedicate a room to folk art completely. But remember not to go overboard and keep the style quotient intact.
How to select Folk art for home decor?
Folk art is not only about decorative items like paintings and sculptures. Indian fold art is found in everyday objects like coasters, keychains, food boxes and more.
- Choose a culture and heritage from a region of India
- Browse the types of art forms in the Folk art offered in your selected region
- Now, select a room in your home for the Folk art
- Choose a size or use of the art form, keeping in mind the colours and style of your chosen Folk-art style.
- Check the budget options – mostly the level and delicacy of artist work defines the price
- Check out the available art pieces to match the style and size requirements of your existing decor. Choose your favourite one and install.
- Remember not to crowd – too much of Folk-art can make your room look a bit rural