The Art of Mysore Painting: Our Traditional Process
Every Mysore painting is a meditative journey. I walk you through my process, from the first freehand sketch to the final touch of pure 22-carat gold leaf.
Our process always begins with a freehand pencil sketch, never tracing. This allows us to create unique compositions and capture the divine postures of gods and goddesses with authenticity and artistic freedom.
The initial sketch for an epic Mahabharata Kurukshetra scene. Capturing the emotion and action of thousands of warriors requires careful planning and detailed freehand drawing before any color or gold is applied.
Here you can see the fine line drawing stage for a large, complex piece. Every character and detail is carefully outlined with red ink, setting the foundation for the gesso work and coloring that will follow.
A close-up of the line drawing process in motion. Using a fine brush, we create the permanent outlines that will guide the entire painting, ensuring every element is perfectly placed.
This video shows the intricate gesso detailing in progress. Gesso, a special paste, is applied to create a raised, 3D effect for ornaments and architectural elements, which is a defining characteristic of Mysore paintings.
Here I am applying the delicate gesso work for a classic Vinayaka painting. This meticulous process builds up the texture and dimension of the artwork, preparing it for the application of gold leaf.
The gesso work on this Lord Balaji painting is complete, showcasing the sculptural effect it creates. This traditional technique adds depth and brings the divine form to life even before color is added.
A close-up look at the gesso work under different lighting. You can see how the texture and depth are meticulously crafted, creating a visual masterpiece that is rich in detail.
This clip shows the careful application of pure gold leaves onto the painting. This is a delicate step that brings a divine radiance and richness to the artwork, highlighting the sacredness of the subject.
The brilliance of 22-carat gold work is evident in this Ganesha painting. The gold leaf is carefully applied over the gesso, enhancing the divine aura and making the ornaments shine.
About The Art of Mysore Painting: Our Process
Before any color touches the board, I spend hours on the freehand sketch and gesso paste. This isn't just prep work; it's the foundation of the 3D relief jewelry that makes a traditional Mysore painting feel alive. You won't find any tracing here—every line is drawn by hand, just as my ancestors taught me.
True Mysore painting is a labor of devotion, not speed. My process begins with the initial pencil sketch on the board. Unlike mass-produced prints, I never use tracing. This allows the proportions of each deity to breathe, reflecting their specific, authentic posture.
Once the layout is set, I prepare the gesso paste. This is crucial for the 3D relief effect. I apply this mixture meticulously to create the raised jewellery and architectural arches. This step is the soul of the work; if the gesso isn't balanced, the gold leaf won't catch the light correctly. I let this dry thoroughly before applying the delicate 22-carat gold foil.
Finally, I use poster colours and watercolours to fill in the figures. I often get asked why I still use these traditional brushes and methods after 35 years. The answer is simple: the soul of the work lies in the imperfections of the human hand, not the precision of a machine. Whether you are ordering a custom deity portrait or joining my online workshops, you are learning the same Karnataka State Award-winning techniques I have practiced my entire life.
Raghavendra B B
I am Raghavendra. For 35 years, my workshop in Bengaluru has been a space for nothing but Mysore painting. I don't just teach or create art; I pass on the specific techniques of gold leafing and gesso that keep our tradition breathing.
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