Revitalizing Kurumba Paintings With Screen And Block Printing

Abstract

In many places of the world, art is a means for communication that transcends time. Artists have produced a vast array of works, including paintings and sculptures, to support causes, explore deeply personal issues, and challenge preconceived assumptions. Kurumba tribal art from the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu is one such disappearing art tradition.

The Kurumba tribes are found in the western central region of Tamil Nadu state, southern India, and the Nilgiris highlands. Originally, they were pastoralists and were most likely related to the Pallavas, who ruled Southern India in the early 4th century. Kurumba, a tribal group living in the southern part of India in the state of Tamil Nadu, has a rich heritage of painting. Many organizations are coming forward to preserve this art. Based on the facts mentioned above and with a keen interest to revive Kurumba art, the researcher has created various styles of sarees with Kurumba paintings which indeed empower the Kurumba society with surface design techniques. This project helped to uplift their lifestyle and gave them an opportunity to honor and popularize their traditional art. In the last few years, the concept of fashion has changed and people love to get products with traditional values which in turn supports society.