The Child of the Forest: Tribal Innocence

A tender portrayal of tribal children playing with handmade toys.

Natural Pigments

• Black: Made from lamp soot or burnt coconut shells, used for outlines.

• White: Derived from crushed conch shells, ideal for highlights.

• Red: From hingula, a red mineral pigment.

• Yellow: Sourced from haritala or turmeric.

• Green: Made by mixing indigo and yellow pigments.

• Brown/Earth Tones: Created from clay, bark extracts, or red ochre, often used for skin tones, soil, and natural elements.

• All pigments are blended with natural tamarind gum for adhesion and durability.

3. Brushes

• Handmade from fine animal hair (e.g., squirrel or mongoose), attached to bamboo sticks.

• Used for fine detailing, including expressions, clothing patterns, and toys.

4. Framing Material – Kashadandi Wood

• The final artwork is framed using Kashadandi wood sticks, a traditional, sustainable wood known for its strength and rustic beauty.

• The sticks are trimmed, sanded, and polished to form a natural border, highlighting the tribal theme.

5. Adhesive (Binder)

• Boiled tamarind seed paste serves as the natural adhesive for both pigment mixing and canvas preparation.

This blend of eco-friendly, handmade materials and tribal framing traditions brings warmth, culture, and authenticity to the portrayal of childhood in rural India.