SYNOPSIS

In this documentary, we have combined interviews of various Warli artists from the Ganjad village of Palgarh distinct, Maharastra, the birthplace of Padma Shri awardee Warli artist Jivya Mashe. Ganjad village nurtures many new artists and serves as the epicenter of Warli art for both the country and the world. Warli art has always been integral to the lives of the Warli tribe in the village, forming part of their daily rituals and practices. Warli paintings evolved as a form of storytelling and expression of everyday lived experiences by the artists (“a true Warli artist can tell the story behind their art”). Gradually, the art shifted from the use of rice paste and wall paintings during weddings and harvest season to the use of cow dung, acrylic paints, and canvases for paintings that are sold across the globe. “Warli kala hamari lipi hai,” said Anil Vangad, an international artist from the Warli tribe and an important character in the film. Here, we see glimpses of tribal life and the roots of Warli art. We explore Warli art through the journey and understanding of a few selected artists of different ages and exposures. Another interesting angle the film takes is from the point of view of the women of the tribe. Initially, Warli paintings were solely an expression of art by women, practiced without interference from men. However, after Jivya Ji, men have taken over, especially since the art became monetizable. This shift can be explored both positively and from a feminist perspective.

GÉNÉRIQUE

• Director

  Apoorva Singh

• Production

  Mariam Hassan

• Referent

  Mariam Hassan

• Sales

  Mariam Hassan