---
title: "Traditional Mysore Painting Process | Hand-Drawn & Gold Leaf Art"
description: "Explore our 35-year legacy of Mysore painting. We use traditional freehand sketches, gesso embossing, and pure 24kt gold leaf to bring divine figures to life."
canonical: https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/our-process-sketch-to-gold
last_updated: 2025-09-04
---

# The Art of Mysore Painting: Our Traditional Process

Tribe Verified · Karnataka State Award-winning traditional artistry

By [Raghavendra B B](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart) · Ships across India; Studio in Bengaluru · ₹8,500 per artwork (unframed) (estimate)

Part of [Custom Mysore Paintings](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/gallery)

Go behind the scenes to see how I bring divine figures to life using 24kt gold leaf, traditional gesso, and 35 years of artistic discipline.

## Photos and videos

- [Video: Every custom painting begins with a freehand sketch. We specialize in crafting unique postures for deities without any tracing, ensuring each artwork is one-of-a-kind.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a5441cf6-7c47-4d30-935a-405141472948)
- [Video: Line drawing in motion. This is the foundational step where the entire composition is carefully laid out on the board before any gesso or color is applied.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d8af170d-a130-4186-a98f-44cb2fffaa4e)
- [Video: A glimpse into the divine sketches of Lakshmi, Saraswathi, Muruga, and Rama Sita as they are prepared to take shape in the exquisite Mysore painting style.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9247f114-fac1-4cab-ba18-2bb644043dea)
- [Video: We are excited to be working on a customized, very small Mysore painting sized at 10x8 inches. This video shows the initial sketches for the set.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/748b34b0-00d3-4d41-a016-c3d304bd9a1f)
- ![We’re working on a compact 11x8 inch board of Lord Balaji. The process starts with this detailed line drawing, which serves as the blueprint for the entire painting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bd12e3b4-7e7e-4388-96d5-866a55de24d4)
- [Video: Here is the new line drawing of Lord Krishna, a creative piece by Artist Raghavendra B B. The intricate details are all drawn by hand before the next stages begin.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/53626a40-5250-49a3-828c-75b8fb282b44)
- [Video: The gesso work is the most intricate part of a Mysore painting. Here you can see the process on a small-sized Lord Ganesha, where we bring depth and elegance to the artwork.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6f0a8e4b-fa53-4847-a4ea-04b65f061679)
- [Video: Intricate gesso detailing in progress for a Lord Ganesha painting. This paste creates the raised, 3D effect on jewelry, crowns, and architectural elements.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f7db23d7-10d7-410f-9d8d-1ab34a29569c)
- [Video: A close-up of the gesso detailing in progress. This foundational step is crucial for creating the rich, sculptural elegance that Mysore paintings are known for.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5bde68dd-0d0a-4ef5-8fae-fbfed8b256af)
- [Video: Watch as intricate gesso work brings this painting of Lord Balaji to life. The delicate sculptural effect adds depth, turning the divine form into a masterpiece of grace.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1a8b0303-6e0a-452f-a715-b2d48464d473)
- ![This is how the intricate gesso work looks under a spotlight. The raised details create a stunning 3D effect that will later be covered in gold leaf.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5fcc8f64-8fd3-4b73-8699-b5d0f6a22a2a)
- [Video: Mastering the art of texture and depth with intricate gesso work. This is a sneak peek into the meticulous process behind our paintings.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e8b1bf5a-9013-4ab5-b99d-ace550c7a59d)
- [Video: A new customized Lord Perumal and Thayar painting is in the works. This video shows the gesso application, which is the first step towards the 3D gold embossing.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/531a6fb0-4b1b-40ed-a307-2de5cd882e81)
- [Video: Starting the new year with devotion and artistry. Here is a peek at the meticulous gesso detailing on a large-scale classic painting of Vinayaka.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2de861ce-e296-423c-bba0-bc650ddbd967)
- [Video: We are recreating our adored Lord Ganesha painting. This video shows the gesso work, which is essential for the traditional texture and feel of the artwork.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2400b2ec-179e-4b34-b072-b06bd2641d7b)
- [Video: Work in progress on a Lord Shiva painting. The gesso has been applied to the Himalayas, his ornaments, and the surrounding celestial beings, preparing them for the gold leaf.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cc371bab-1290-464e-9b7d-36ffd0a679fa)
- [Video: A glimpse of the gold leaf application on one of our Mysore paintings. This delicate process uses real 24kt gold to give the artwork its divine and lasting glow.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/340bf356-63af-4368-8fea-d90d0556267c)
- [Video: The richness of 22kt gold work enhances the divine aura of this Lord Ganesha Mysore painting. Stay tuned for the final reveal.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f5ad055f-4773-4400-952c-f35118549a3a)
- [Video: This video shows the application of gold leaf and the initial coloring stages on a Lord Murugan painting, highlighting the transition from gesso to gold.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e8db2a0a-5b76-4375-ad70-e8dc5a7e099b)
- [Video: Embracing the richness of tradition, where every stroke of gold leaf tells a story of elegance in Mysore painting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/87cb36cc-8e44-433b-800b-c3e57be6db62)
- [Video: A look at the rendering process, where fine lines are drawn over the gold leaf to create texture and detail on the ornaments and clothing.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/492fc2ec-a85e-4188-9ed7-36e621eba5fb)
- [Video: A sneak peek into the intricate rendering process of a Lord Ganesha Mysore painting after the gold leaf has been applied.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6e4059e3-6618-4974-a92c-db2519eb8051)
- [Video: Rendering is the stage where we meticulously accentuate the delicate sculptures and intricate embossing, adding depth and allure to the artwork.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/092e8553-cf13-4cee-9571-19c198593885)
- [Video: Intricate gesso work in progress on a Goddess Lakshmi painting. Here, the artist is adding the final touches to the gold before the coloring begins.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/18c97ec8-7769-4482-b4e1-bc1336ed59cd)
- [Video: A divine glimpse of a Lord Ganesha painting in progress. Adorned with pure gold leaf work, every detail is being carefully brought to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6bea61f7-5fcb-414e-ab33-a7c3956c24fd)
- [Video: A beautiful glimpse of creating a peacock in a Goddess Saraswathi Mysore painting. Every brushstroke of watercolor adds to its elegance and charm.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0e8b629c-c679-4526-be1d-d4cf5f5bd3b7)
- [Video: Our best-selling Mysore painting of Lord Ganesha is being recreated. This video shows the coloring of the background and the figure after the gold work is complete.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bb2f2f19-fd8e-4e29-b78f-d03869c33c64)
- [Video: A glimpse of our ongoing Ganesha workshop painting nearing completion. The brilliance of pure gold leaves brings divine elegance to every stroke.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ea4d0142-55ee-48fb-90f5-72e8f7e4b62e)
- [Video: This 10x12 inch Mysore painting of Goddess Lakshmi with a Kalash is still in progress, yet its charm shines through as the colors are being filled in.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/691a6a75-687c-4908-a384-0ac5aec46cfd)
- [Video: Work in progress on a stunning Mysore painting of Lord Narasimha Swamy and Lakshmi Devi, showing the application of watercolors.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a401eddb-3891-47fe-a115-aaa15793e2e7)
- [Video: Our Shiva painting is nearing completion. Here’s a glimpse of the intricate details and divine aura taking shape as the colors are added.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b75447be-d5eb-403a-8e51-0012a234f594)
- [Video: The artist at work on a stunning Mysore painting of Lord Shrinathji. Each brushstroke of color brings the divine elegance to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fe3361ac-14ee-4502-a919-17a151e0f565)
- [Video: A montage of our paintings in progress. Each piece is taking shape beautifully, and we can’t wait to see them completed.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/420f2b2e-6e7e-4aaf-9623-7e0706ef21e9)
- [Video: A new work in progress painting with intricate detailing of gesso work and pure gold leaves. This Radha Krishna piece is just starting to come to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2c1aefea-4687-496e-8c35-97e658ae957f)
- [Video: This beautiful painting featuring seven deities is nearing completion. The best part is having the creative freedom to bring any Mysore painting to life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5c42b179-01a8-4b7d-aa27-113b826451bb)
- [Video: Presenting our exquisite Mysore paintings in progress, featuring Lord Ranganathaswamy, Lord Murugan, and Goddess Madurai Meenakshi, customized for a client.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d5a2d1e9-1808-4bd5-a65b-e0f5b2291be2)
- [Video: A look at our Mysore paintings in progress. Each one features unique elements customized to our clients’ needs.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d2908720-9c30-4718-ae2e-f03717753fd2)
- [Video: The divine is taking form. A glimpse into our latest Mysore painting featuring 7 deities, showing the initial color blocking.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/873fc6b2-bc91-482a-86eb-c201c2f5a5ed)
- [Video: Lord Krishna playing the flute in a peaceful garden. This video shows the artist adding the final touches to the serene scene.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/11dfb033-967f-41fd-9fea-16305ecb2d6b)
- [Video: Chamundeshwari Mahishasura Mardhini in all her glory. This video shows the coloring process, capturing the moment of victory.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b7ad8280-cbe6-483e-9af3-65072bc5a1c2)
- [Video: Work in progress on our upcoming Rama Pattabhishekam painting, featuring subtle colors and exquisite gold leaf embossing.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5617287a-44f4-412f-a400-1681d9f74c24)
- [Video: We are in the process of creating another customized Shiva Kutumba painting, with dimensions of 12x18 inches.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/132458dd-65fe-4007-add8-5b8fb4826fc6)
- [Video: This artwork by artist Raghavendra B B is a creative depiction of Lord Balaji with his consorts. This video shows the coloring stage.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2d9839e6-e4fa-49b0-bdb5-37ca7ea65a80)
- [Video: Excitement is in the air as we approach the final strokes of our long-awaited Mysore painting of Goddess Kali.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/482ae6bb-5764-4ccc-9ccc-4a8631eabe3d)
- [Video: In honor of the goddess of knowledge, this Mysore painting of Goddess Saraswathi is a blend of elegance and cultural richness.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/10468bde-acf0-4885-bdf6-ff7ae61511b7)
- ![Creating a divine legacy: the initial sketch and gesso work for a Shiva Parvathi Kutumba painting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/17d85ca7-2a26-4404-b662-9ca376651ea6)
- [Video: This video shows the remarkable effort and dedication behind creating a stunning 4.5x3.3 feet Mysore painting of Lord Ganesha, from start to finish.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b19a40e4-8cce-45d5-9192-f0e29f25d796)
- [Video: A detailed video showing the step-by-step process of creating our Mysore paintings, from the initial stages to the final completion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/afd4447a-2353-4dca-bb87-06257ebbcd2a)
- [Video: Bringing life to every stroke, crafting depth in colors. A glimpse into the work in progress of a customized Lord Venkateshwara painting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/05687277-dfc3-4b53-b8c5-9d8cc9da1ac9)
- [Video: Putting the finishing touches on this beautiful folk-style painting. We can’t wait to share the completed artwork.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1fa0f9dd-c445-4040-811a-8d3c257e9f16)
- [Video: Diving deep into the intricate details of Mysore artistry. Every stroke on this folk painting tells a story of tradition and beauty.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ffc29fd3-a2ae-48b8-9679-6042f69f28a6)
- [Video: This brief video illustrates the journey and effort put into completing a large-scale painting of Lord Ganesha with a beautiful smiling face.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8fe5ed39-241e-406f-b66b-978b4b54d77f)
- [Video: Mysore paintings are renowned for their intricate details and vibrant colors. This video shows the process of blending watercolors over the embossed gold work.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b556a580-cabe-40c6-a1d1-407f4fe8a7cf)
- [Video: A work-in-progress shot of a large Ganesha painting, showing the artist meticulously adding color to the background elements.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fc9510c0-32ba-444c-a1c3-f2aaf28a9659)
- [Video: Sri Rama Pattabhishekam Mysore painting work in progress. This shows the early stages of coloring the figures.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1b2fe954-c904-4480-a294-b26c587aa102)
- [Video: An artistic offering to the divine. This video shows the coloring process of a Lord Sathyanarayana Swamy painting with delicate gesso and pure gold work.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6a3bf337-e6b7-42d2-a505-2b551bffbd8b)
- [Video: A video promoting our Saraswathi workshop, showing the artist demonstrating coloring techniques on a beautiful painting of the goddess.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e244ea2a-78c9-4bbd-851c-436c9830c1d5)
- [Video: Divine grace in progress. A glimpse of our round board Ashtalakshmi painting, showing the embossed gold leaf work before coloring.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/28c08298-12af-4bb4-8eb9-463c7fdaa770)
- [Video: A set of six exquisite Mysore paintings being created for a client’s pooja room. This video shows the artist adding final details to a painting of Lord Murugan.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7f6013a0-82c0-4972-85a8-fa60cbf6758f)
- [Video: We are creating six divine forms for a Pooja room. This video shows the paintings after the gesso and gold work, with some initial coloring.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a80b0411-0341-4793-a348-f43b673695f8)
- [Video: A glimpse into the heart of our workshop, showing various paintings at different stages of completion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/69430491-1097-4803-9867-df59faadcb4c)
- ![Welcome to our creative haven. This image shows our art studio with a new piece in progress on the easel and finished works on the wall.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5538405b-d576-4c37-8a60-56252725aa54)
- [Video: An album showcasing our past artworks, functioning as a catalogue of painting prints to exhibit our collection of various deities and scenes.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2e907382-d26b-4fcb-882c-ac951b464eb1)
- [Video: A journey through the colors and culture of Mysore Paintings, showing finished pieces hanging in our gallery and a new Lakshmi painting being created.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9a314513-f684-4a99-a06d-f793418a4891)
- [Video: A sneak peek of our work in progress and completed paintings from the month of August, all customized for our clients.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/705a829b-2184-4cf4-a092-9fb32ac61b8a)

## About Our Process: Sketch to Gold

I never use stencils or tracing. Every single line—from the initial pencil sketch to the 3D gesso relief—is drawn freehand to ensure the divine proportions remain authentic and uniquely yours.

When you commission a painting, you are receiving the result of a process I have practiced for over three decades. It begins with the sketch. I draw the deity's form directly onto the heritage mounting board, adjusting the proportions to ensure the posture and mudras are traditionally accurate. There is no printing or tracing involved; my hand is the only guide.

Next comes the gesso work, which gives my paintings their signature depth. I apply a paste to create raised architectural details—the crowns, the jewelry, and the pillars of the mandapa. This requires a steady hand and precise timing, as the height of the embossing determines how beautifully the gold will catch the light later. 

Finally, I apply the 24kt pure gold leaf. This is an offering, not just a decoration. The leaf is delicate and requires immense patience. I layer it carefully over the embossed gesso areas to create that radiant, permanent glow that Mysore paintings are known for. Once the gold is set, I use watercolors to paint the expressions, skin tones, and background details using techniques passed down through generations. The entire process, from the first sketch to the final varnish, is a meditative practice. Whether it is a small 10x12 inch portrait or a 5-foot heirloom commission, the method remains the same: meticulous, traditional, and devoted.

## About Raghavendra B B

I have spent 35 years refining the art of Mysore painting, treating every brushstroke as a form of meditation. My daughter Amulya helps me connect with you since I speak only Kannada, ensuring that your vision is translated perfectly into gold and pigment.

[See all of Raghavendra B B's services](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart)

## More from Custom Mysore Paintings by Raghavendra B B

- [Featured](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/featured)
- [Deities & Divinities](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/deities-divinities)
- [Grand Narratives & Cultural Epics](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/grand-narratives-cultural-epics)
- [Our Art in Your Sacred Space](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/our-art-in-your-sacred-space)
- [Unique & Fusion Creations](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/unique-fusion-creations)
- [The Artist & His Legacy](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/the-artist-his-legacy)
- [Learn the Ancient Art: Workshops](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/custom-mysore-paintings/learn-the-ancient-art-workshops)

## More services by Raghavendra B B

- [Online Mysore Painting Classes & Workshops](https://mytribe.in/divinemysoreart/online-mysore-painting-classes-workshops)

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## Book

To book Raghavendra B B, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Namaste!%20I%20am%20interested%20in%20a%20custom%20Mysore%20painting.%20Could%20you%20tell%20me%20more%20about%20the%20process%20and%20pricing%20for%20a%20piece%20like%20the%20ones%20in%20the%20'Sketch%20to%20Gold'%20gallery%3F)