WARLI WHISPERS A solo show by Amit Dombhare

WARLI WHISPERS

Warli art is a traditional tribal art form from the Warli tribe, located in the northern outskirts of
Mumbai, India, in the state of Maharashtra. This art form dates back to around 2500 to 3000 BCE
and is recognized for its simple yet profound visual language.

Characteristics of Warli Art:

1. Themes and Subjects:

• Warli paintings typically depict daily life, social rituals, and cultural practices of the Warli tribe.

• Common themes include farming, hunting, festivals, dancing, and various social activities.

2. Style and Technique:

The paintings are characterized by their use of basic geometric shapes: circles, triangles, and

squares.

• Circles represent the sun and moon, triangles depict mountains and trees, and squares often

symbolize sacred enclosures or human creations.

• Human and animal figures are typically made up of two triangles joined at the tip, giving

them a dynamic, almost abstract appearance.

3. Medium and Materials:

• Traditionally, Warli art is created on the walls of houses made of a mixture of branches, earth,

and cow dung.

• The paint is made from a mixture of rice paste and water with gum as a binder.

• A bamboo stick, chewed at one end to make a rough brush, is used to apply the paint.

4. Cultural Significance:

• Warli art is not just an aesthetic tradition but a vital part of the tribe’s cultural and spiritual

identity.

• It is often created during special occasions like weddings and harvests, serving as a form of

visual storytelling and a means to preserve the tribe’s history and beliefs.

Warli art has gained international recognition for its simplicity, earthy aesthetic, and profound
cultural significance, making it a celebrated form of Indian folk art.

He is the receipt of the D.K. Jain Art Prize.

Amit Mahadev Dombhare was born on August 17, 1985, in Devgaon, Maharashtra.

He is a tribal Warli painting artist. He calls it his family art, and has learnt it from his grandfather. He started learning
Warli art in 2001 and has 18 years of experience.

He has participated in exhibitions organized at Crafts Museum (New Delhi), Dilli Haat, Shilp Bazar (Gwalior), Kala
Ghoda Festival (Mumbai) and Shilp Mela (Jaipur). Apart from this, he has visited many cities like Goa, Shimla, Bhopal,
Pune, etc. to showcase his work.

Amit Dombhare is a contemporary artist renowned for his expertise in Warli art, a traditional form of tribal art from
Maharashtra, India. Warli art is characterized by its simple yet elegant patterns, usually depicting scenes of rural life,
animals, and nature using basic shapes like circles, triangles, and lines.

Dombhare's work stands out for its meticulous detailing and the infusion of modern elements while preserving the
essence of traditional Warli art. He skillfully blends traditional themes with contemporary issues, offering a fresh
perspective that resonates with both local and global audiences.

His artistic journey reflects a deep commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous art forms. Through his
artworks, Dombhare not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Warli tribe but also raises awareness about
the importance of preserving traditional art amidst modern influences.

Dombhare's art has been exhibited widely, both in India and internationally, garnering acclaim for its artistic merit
and cultural significance. His pieces are often sought after for their unique blend of tradition and innovation, making
him a leading figure in the contemporary Warli art movement.

Overall, Amit Dombhare's contribution to Warli art not only enriches the cultural tapestry of India but also serves as a
bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that this ancient art form continues to inspire and captivate
audiences worldwide. He is the receipt of the D.K. Jain Art Prize.

AMIT MAHADEV DOMBHARE