Eco-Pattachitra: Save the Earth

Nature conservation themes in traditional art.

Natural Pigments

• Green (Forests, trees, nature): Extracted from neem, spinach, or other green leaves

• Brown (Tree trunks, soil, tribal skin tones): Made from natural clay or bark powder

• Blue (Rivers, sky): Derived from indigo plant

• Yellow (Sunlight, flowers): From turmeric or haritala

• White (Sacred symbols, animal markings): Ground conch shell powder

• Red (Borders, flowers, nature symbols): Extracted from hingula (cinnabar)

• Black (Outlines, details, animals): Produced using lamp soot or burnt coconut shells

All colors are bound with tamarind seed gum, making them eco-friendly and long-lasting.

🖌  Brushes

• Handmade brushes using squirrel or mongoose hair set into thin bamboo sticks

• Used for:

  • Delicate line work

  • Detailed patterns on leaves, animals, and natural textures

  • Fine border designs

🌿  Decorative Borders

• Traditional Pattachitra borders include floral creepers, peacocks, elephants, and water motifs to reinforce themes of biodiversity and sacred ecology.

✨  Protective Finish

• A coating of natural resin (lacquer or shellac) is applied to:

  • Protect against dust and humidity

  • Enhance the vibrancy and lifespan of the artwork