Tribal art includes the artistic expressions and material possessions of native communities. Often imbibed with ceremonial or spiritual significance, tribal art predominantly emerges from rural settings, including the themes and craftsmanship found in artifacts from various tribal cultures. Different regions across India boast their unique social and traditional identities, with each of them showcasing its distinctive style in the form of folk art. This simple yet captivating piece of art, reflects the richness of the country’s heritage. Examples of Indian tribal art include Tanjore art, Warli Paintings, Pattachitra, and numerous others.
The amalgamation of tribal art in modern fashion has resulted in an intrinsic wearable art that expresses the nomadic roots of a civilisation that is often overlooked. A lot of tribal communities, renowned for their intrinsic, artisanal designs, have extended their branches into the fashion world. The use of tribal art in fashion not only celebrates these artistic traditions but also fosters cultural appreciation and provides economic opportunities for tribal communities.
Anindita Sardar, Head of design and curation, Taneira said, “Within the rich tapestry of tribal and folk art lies a profound connection to heritage and identity, where utilitarianism merges seamlessly with decorative expression. Artists draw inspiration from the landscapes of their lives, weaving motifs of forests, animals, and daily rhythms into vibrant narratives that resonate deeply with personal and communal stories. In our ever-evolving modernity, the integration of tribal prints into fashion serves as a poignant reminder of our cultural origins, fostering an appreciation for craftsmanship and nurturing our ties to tradition. As global markets expand, designers are offered the opportunity to explore and integrate diverse cultural elements, enriching the fabric of fashion with unique patterns, colours, and techniques.”
Tribal Prints For Summer Season:
The summer season presents tribal art an intriguing opportunity to delve into the fashion world, often embodied in delicate, colourful embroideries and mirror work.
“The use of motifs inspired by nature, such as animals, flowers, and geometric patterns adorned in spring colours like vibrant greens, pinks, and yellows seamlessly blend into the seasonal spirit of spring,” said Asha Patil, Founder, Banjara Kasuti
Talking about some tribal prints, she added:
- The incorporation of comfortable, breathable fabrics is an integral part of summer fashion – pairing textile fabrics like cotton and silk, adorned with geometric patterns inspired by Madhya Pradesh’s unique Gond art is a popular choice among consumers today.
- Warli design, an art form from the Warli community in Maharashtra is also a famous for its incorporation of simple geometric shapes and scenes from daily lives, such as huts and animal and human figures – typically used in an array of modern-day clothing.
- Similarly, Lambani embroidery is known for its exquisite use of embroidery and mirror, beautifully reflect the sunlight and further illuminate the entire outfit.
Tribal Art In Ethnic Wear:
Tribal art holds a special place in the heart of Indian culture, with its intricate patterns, vibrant colours, and symbolic motifs telling stories of ancient civilizations and indigenous communities. By incorporating these elements into designs, we not only pay homage to our cultural roots but also celebrate the diversity and beauty of India’s tribal heritage.
Raghav Mittal, MD & Creative Director, The House of Surya said, “Tribal-inspired prints adorn luxurious fabrics, transforming sarees into works of art that are both timeless and contemporary. The rhythmic swirls of tribal motifs dance across the drape of a saree, infusing it with a sense of movement and energy that is both captivating and enchanting. Similarly, lehengas are embellished with geometric patterns and tribal symbols, adding depth and texture to the silhouette while honoring the craftsmanship of artisans.”
“Renowned techniques like ‘batik’, screen printing, discharge print, lehariya-bandhej, and block printing on indigo colours infuse garments with a rich tapestry of craftsmanship and cultural heritage,” he added.
Tribal prints go beyond being merely a fashion preference. In a society where individuality often aligns with advocating for something, tribal prints provide a means to achieve both grace and confidence, serving as a platform for personal expression and celebrating our rich culture.