‘Miniature art is expensive and time-consuming’

Thirteen painters from Jaipur are treating the city to a miniature painting exhibition, works for which were created using squirrel hair brushes. Organised by Swasti Vinayaka Art and Heritage, the unique art form is currently displayed at Cymroza Art Gallery in an exhibition titled Rhythms of Brush and Pigment.

Divided into three parts, the first showcases a brief history of Indian miniature styles, centred on a religious theme, with the much-loved god Krishna as a recurrent motif. Artist Rajeshkumar Kumawat says, “Miniature art in its true form is very fine, precise and difficult. It becomes expensive and very time-consuming.”

The second part of the exhibition showcases portraits of historical and spiritual personalities. A series of three paintings featuring Hanuman and Durga Devi is the highlight of this section.

Trying to focus on modern developments in the art form, the third part of the exhibition will focus on works of Suresh Chandra Sharma, Shakir Ali, Kumawat, and Babulal Marotia. “Miniature art can never be like pop art,” insists Kumawat. “The government should provide a degree in Indian miniature art at schools across the country. This will help bring about a new generation of skilled artists in this ancient Indian art,” he adds.