Gond Paintings

The term ‘Gond’ originates from the Dravidian word ‘Kond’, meaning ‘green mountains’, encapsulating the lush surroundings that have shaped the Gond community’s identity. As one of India’s largest tribal communities, the Gonds have deep roots in Madhya Pradesh, the heart of Incredible India, where their rich artistic legacy has flourished for approximately 1400 years. Dating back to the Mesolithic Period, Gond art represents a significant cultural heritage of India, blending intricate patterns and vibrant colors with their reverence for nature. For the Gond tribe, art is not confined to special occasions but permeates every aspect of life, adorning their bodies with tattoos and embellishing everyday items like baskets and pottery. This art in modern times, has been transcended to canvas.
The essence of Gond paintings lies in their portrayal of the surrounding nature, featuring animals, birds, and human figures engaged in activities like hunting and dancing. What sets Gond art apart is its diverse array of individual styles, while adhering to the core principles of the art form.