Tribal Art and Environmental Awareness: Insights from Baiga and Bhil Art

The Indian tribal art is quite rich in history and depicts cultural heritage and different traditions found among the people. It comes through in the daily life activities, rituals, and customs of these tribes. Tribal arts are not for ornamentation alone but also fulfil ceremonial, ritual and spiritual purposes. Every region of our country has its unique art form, be it the ceremonial wall paintings of the Warli tribe or the vibrant puppetry traditions of Odisha. India has a very rich cultural heritage, and each region has its representation, whether in art or any other visual expression. For the Indigenous people, these art forms promote ecological balance within their communities. Deep-rooted in history, art forms like Baiga and Bhil reflect their connection with nature and have great cultural and spiritual value. For sustainability and ecological balance, the methods and materials used in these kinds of art are equally vital. In this article, we will explore the importance of Baiga and Bhil art for the environment, and how their age-old traditions play a crucial role in sustainability.

Woman in Baiga art by Manoj Tekam

Baiga and Bhil art are predominant in Central India, and each carries a profound cultural and environmental significance. The vibrant art of Baiga is rooted in the traditions of Central India's Baiga tribe, their art is mainly focused on their natural environment and cultural heritage. Similarly, Bhil art, with its vibrant colours and intricate dot patterns depicts everyday life and rituals. Both Bhil and Baiga artists often portray elements from the natural world such as human figures, flora and fauna.

Techniques and Environmental Awareness in Art

Bhil art is known for its vibrant wall paintings, decorated with dots which reflect a deep spiritual connection of the tribe with nature. Bhil artists mostly depict mythology, folklore and daily life; dots not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also hold symbolic meanings. The techniques are detailed and materials such as pigments are derived naturally, mostly from plants and various stones, further emphasising eco-friendliness and sustainability. The dots used in Bhil art are often compared to pointillism, these dots symbolise kernels of maize and are associated with harvest and bountifulness. Bhil paintings revolve around rituals, especially the worship of Pithora Dev (a deity prominently worshipped for rainfall and prosperity).

Baiga art, on the other hand, is also known for its connection with nature and spirituality, this art form is known for its unique patterns and is characterised by human figures and trees. Baiga artists use natural materials derived from nature such as clay, and pigments from various sources like, turmeric, soil, and charcoal. Ink is often gathered from tree saps, especially Kohla trees (indigenous to central India). Brushes are handmade from twigs and other materials obtained locally. Most patterns and motifs feature animals and plants showing the interconnectedness to our environment.

Deer and Birds in Bhil by Shersingh Bhabor

Both tribes have deep respect for their surrounding environment and are focused on sustainable living, this is reflected in their art as well. Both art forms use sustainable materials and pigments from flowers and plants, this reliance on their local resources shows their sustainable practices and peaceful coexistence with nature. They also have a deep spiritual connection to the deities associated with the environment which makes both Bhil and Baiga art more sustainable and eco-friendly art forms. According to Baiga legends, the Goddess Mavai descended from heaven to reward the tribe for their love and respect for nature, the Goddess also taught them to create art by using materials which are obtained naturally such as clay, flowers and plants. This mythological association of art with divinity suggests the high status the indigenous people have given to the art.

A close spiritual connection to nature is also reflected in the Bhil tribe, they worship spiritual forces that govern the world around them. The Bhils believe the spirits and deities dwell in the forest, mountains and rivers, this makes them respect their nature even more.

Contemporary Relevance

Baiga and Bhil art has received contemporary relevance, tribal art has gained global interest because of environmental awareness and sustainability of the arts. Art forms which follow sustainability and environmental friendliness reflect the modern age problem of biodiversity and its preservation. Some Bhil artists particularly explore issues like climate change and deforestation through their artworks, this shows their adaptability to contemporary issues.

These unique artistic expressions are being preserved and promoted by several NGOs, governmental organizations, and online platforms. These programs significantly contribute to the support of regional artists, they provide a platform for Baiga and Bhil artists to increase their visibility and reach a larger audience.

Conclusion

As the issues of climate change and global warming grow, Baiga and Bhil's paintings remind us of how closely humans are connected to nature. Their paintings reflect a deep respect for the environment and urge us to live in harmony with it. Both Baiga and Bhil artists with their work provide sustainability and the preservation of our natural world. Supporting local artists is crucial, it not only provides a livelihood but also safeguards their invaluable traditions and knowledge. Thus, by promoting NGOs as well as online portals, we ensure these unique art forms continue to educate future generations about the urgent need to protect our planet.

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