Kerala Mural Paintings and Art Collection

Kerala mural art is a traditional form of painting that originated in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Rooted in religious narratives, Kerala mural art has evolved over centuries to become a celebrated cultural heritage of India.

History and Tradition

The history of Kerala mural art can be traced back to the ancient temples and palaces of Kerala, where these magnificent paintings adorned the walls as expressions of devotion and artistic excellence. Dating back to as early as the 9th century CE, Kerala murals can be seen in places like Thirunadhikkara cave, Vaikom temple, Padmanabhaswamy temple etc.

 Themes

Generally, Kerala mural paintings are inspired by Hindu mythology, depicting scenes from the epics Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. These paintings often portray gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and mythological creatures in elaborate detail, conveying stories of love, valor, and divine intervention reflecting the rich tapestry of Indian mythology and spirituality.

Techniques and Details

Kerala mural art is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, vibrant colors, and beautiful compositions. At first, artists prepare the wall with layers of lime and sand mixture. Natural pigments derived from minerals, plants, and metals, are used to draw outlines and later fill the colors, using brushes made from natural fibers. Artists skillfully incorporate architectural features such as pillars, arches, and doorways into their compositions, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality. The paintings are often adorned with decorative motifs and geometric patterns, adding to their visual appeal.