Mastering the Sacred Tanjore Painting Process
Tanjore painting is a meditative journey from initial pencil sketches to the final layer of 24k gold foil. We break down these 400-year-old techniques into simple, step-by-step stages that anyone can master.
Every great painting begins with a sketch. Here, we are preparing the initial drawing for a Lakshmi workshop, ensuring the proportions are perfect before we begin.
This video shows an easy way to create a symmetrical Kirthi Mukha sketch, a protective face often seen in temple architecture.
Kundan stones, resembling rubies and emeralds, add a royal look to Tanjore paintings. Here we are carefully placing them to create a symmetrical and traditional border.
Look at these beautiful red and green Kundan stones. They are an integral part of Tanjore paintings, and here you can see them being laid out before being stuck onto the canvas.
It started with real emeralds and rubies centuries ago. Today, we use high-quality Kundan stones to continue the rich heritage of this art form.
Our students enjoying the process of sticking Kundan stones for their Balaji painting. This step adds so much richness and grandeur to the artwork.
Come learn this beautiful Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi. This video shows the initial stage of sketching and placing Kundan stones.
Every step in creating art is important. Sticking Kundan stones adds grandeur to Tanjore paintings, as seen in this Balaji painting in progress.
Do you want to add depth to a painting? This video explains the technique of embossing, or gesso work, which creates the unique 3D effect in Tanjore art.
Gesso work is absolutely meditative. This paste, a mixture of chalk and edible gum, is used to give depth to the painting, as shown here on a Lakshmi Narasimha piece.
About The Sacred Process: A Step-by-Step Journey
The most transformative part of this art form is the 'muck work'—the 3D embossing that gives a Tanjore painting its characteristic depth. It isn't just about applying a mixture of chalk and gum; it’s a meditative practice that demands patience and a steady hand. When you start building these layers on your board in our Basavanagudi studio or at home, you’ll find that the process becomes as rewarding as the final gold-leafed masterpiece.
From Sketch to Gold: Our Method
We believe that anyone can create art. Whether you are a total beginner or looking to refine your craft, we guide you through the traditional workflow, ensuring every detail is respected:
- The Foundation: We start with a pencil sketch, focusing on proportions and layout. If you think you cannot draw, don't worry—we help you build the structure from scratch.
- The 3D Embossing (Muck Work): This is where the painting gains life. We use a traditional, handmade paste of chalk and gum to build relief. This requires practice and precision, as each line must be consistent and clean.
- Stone & Detail: Adding Kundan stones or semi-precious gems is when the piece starts to look royal. We focus on symmetry and balance, placing each stone carefully to complement the embossed areas.
- The Gold Application: The final step involves applying genuine 24k gold foil. It is a delicate process that requires patience, as the gold is incredibly thin and requires a steady hand to lay perfectly over the embossed muck work.
Why This Process Matters
In Tanjore art, this isn't just a painting project; it is Sadhana, a spiritual discipline. By slowing down and focusing on each step—the smell of the gum, the texture of the paste, the shine of the foil—students often tell us that the class feels more like a meditation session than a workshop. You aren't just learning to paint; you are connecting with a 400-year-old tradition passed down through generations.
FAQ
Do I need prior drawing experience? Absolutely not. We teach everything from how to hold a brush to the final shading techniques.
Is the material provided? Yes. Whether you join our online classes or visit our studio in Bangalore, we provide a complete kit, including the gold foil, boards, and specialty stones.
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