Have you ever come across a fascinating form of art called Rajasthani Phad paintings?
These are remarkable large-scale horizontal artworks on cloth portraying local hero-gods and their extraordinary lives. Phad paintings are like visual storytellers, capturing complex narratives through a unique style filled with figures and pictorial incidents. These paintings create a captivating backdrop for all-night performances, where they are unveiled after sundown. Isn’t it intriguing how they are tied to the time of day?
TALENTED ARTIST
Meet Kalyan Joshi, a talented son of the famed Phad painter Shree Lal Joshi. Kalyan has embraced his family’s creative legacy and has become a remarkable Phad painter in his own right, following in his father’s footsteps. Kalyan, who has a genealogy stretching back to the 13th century, continues on his heritage with his extraordinary skills and ingenuity. He has received national recognition as a National Awardee for his creative approach and contemporary aesthetic.
ABOUT THE ARTFORM
The word “Phad” refers to their uniqueness. “Phad” signifies folds in Rajasthani, probably because these paintings are usually unfolded or unrolled only during the performance. It’s as if they have a secret that needs to be revealed! Phad painters are painters that specialize in this art style and are dedicated to bringing these amazing narratives to life.
Phad paintings depict the stories of Rajasthani heroes such as Pabuji and Devnarayanji, who are revered as avatars of Lord Vishnu and Laxman. These bright paintings reflect the lives of Ramdev Ji, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and Mahaveera while displaying a distinct iconography. The parallels among Phad’s are amazing!
Phad paintings, with their own narratives and attractive aesthetic, have a special position in the world of art. Kalyan Joshi displays his amazing talent as a Phad painter, continuing his father’s artistic history. He promotes the incredible stories of Rajasthani warriors while preserving this old art form through exhibitions and workshops. Both current and future generations are enthralled and inspired by Kalyan’s achievements.
Kalyan keeps the art form alive through exhibitions and workshops, ensuring its preservation and inspiring future generations. Explore Kalyan Joshi’s extraordinary talent as he carries on his father’s artistic tradition.
