The Sacred Totem: Tribal Ancestors

A symbolic painting of tribal totem poles with Pattachitra’s intricate borders.

1. Natural Pigments

   • Black (used for totem outlines and symbolic patterns): Made from soot or burnt coconut shells.

   • White (for highlights and borders): Created from ground conch shells.

2. Brushes

   • Handmade using fine animal hair (squirrel or mongoose) attached to bamboo sticks.

   • Thin brushes are ideal for the intricate border designs, while broader ones are used for bolder tribal motifs.

3. Natural Adhesive (Binder)

   • A sticky paste made by boiling tamarind seeds, used to prepare the canvas and to mix with pigments for painting.

4. Burnishing Tools

   • Smooth stones, glass pieces, or shells are used to polish the completed painting, giving it a glossy, finished look.

These materials not only help preserve the traditional methods of Indian folk and classical art but also elevate the spiritual and cultural symbolism embedded in the tribal and Pattachitra fusion style.