Penkraft

Monday, 27 February 2023

From mud huts to paper: The story of Madhubani painting

Looking at the bright colors and intricate designs of Madhubani paintings, it's hard to believe that they originated from simple mud huts. But that's exactly where this unique form of painting began, and it has since evolved into a popular form of art that is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ilmi-e-Nagari, or the art of Madhubani painting, has its roots in the Mithila region of India and Nepal. The Madhubani paintings are done with natural dyes and pigments, and depict scenes from Hindu mythology.

The women of the region have been painting these murals for centuries, handed down from generation to generation. In the past, the paintings were done on the walls and floors of mud huts. But nowadays, they are done on paper, cloth and even towels.

The colors and patterns used in Madhubani paintings are very intricate and detailed. It is said that each painting is a representation of the cosmos.

The paintings are done using a variety of techniques, including finger painting, brush painting, and stencilling. The women of the region are very skilled in this art form, and their paintings are highly sought after by collectors.

Madhubani paintings are a unique and beautiful art form, and it is fascinating to see how they have evolved over time.

Madhubani painting is a form of Indian folk art that dates back centuries. Madhubani paintings are characterized by their brightly colored, intricate patterns.

Madhubani paintings are traditionally done on the walls of homes, as they are believed to bring good luck and protect against evil. Today, Madhubani paintings can be found on a variety of surfaces, including cloth, paper, and even wood.

If you're interested in trying your hand at Madhubani painting, there are a few things you'll need to get started. First, you'll need some supplies. Madhubani painting is typically done with natural materials like cow dung, soot, and vegetable dyes. You'll also need a brush, preferably one made from a bamboo reed.

Once you have your supplies, you're ready to start painting! The first step is to draw your design on the surface you're painting. You can use a pencil or charcoal to make your drawing, but be sure to make it as light as possible. Once you're happy with your design, you can start painting.

Madhubani painting is all about color and pattern, so don't be afraid to experiment. Work in small sections and build up the colors slowly. As you paint, you can add more details and patterns.

When you're finished, your Madhubani painting will be a beautiful and unique work of art!

The Madhubani painting tradition is over 3,000 years old, and the paintings are still created using the same techniques today. The paintings are created by women, and depict scenes from Indian mythology.

Penkraft conducts classes, course, online courses, live courses, workshops, teachers' training & online teachers' training in Handwriting Improvement, Calligraphy, Abacus Maths, Vedic Maths, Phonics and various Craft & Artforms - Madhubani, Mandala, Warli, Gond, Lippan Art, Kalighat, Kalamkari, Pichwai, Cheriyal, Kerala Mural, Pattachitra, Tanjore Painting, One Stroke Painting, Decoupage, Image Transfer, Resin Art, Fluid Art, Alcohol Ink Art, Pop Art, Knife Painting, Scandinavian Art, Water Colors, Coffee Painting, Pencil Shading, Resin Art Advanced etc. at pan-India locations. With our mission to inspire, educate, empower & uplift people through our endeavours, we have trained & operationally supported (and continue to support) 1500+ home-makers to become Penkraft Certified Teachers? in various disciplines.    

Abacus : Calculation at your fingertips

The term ‘Abacus’ has been derived from the Greek word, ‘ABAX’ which means counting table. It was invented by Tim Cranmer. The discovery of this tool has proven to be a boon for those who struggle with number crunching. Many of us, including me feel quite nervous or lack confidence when doing simple & basic Math calculations like, 8+6 or for that matter, simple multiplications. When you are not able to ace a particular task, doesn’t mean that you are weak at it, you just need to put in more effort.

I remember, on very first day of school & college during the Math lecture, the very first question that our subject teacher used to ask was, “How many of you are SCARED of Math” and almost 60% of the class had their hands raised up. When we are scared of something we find an excuse to run out of the problem, because we are not sure about the outcome. The same theory goes for Math, it seems that the subject conveys a powerful message like, you can love me, you can hate me but you can’t ignore me, true that! In every career choice, at some point you will be asked for application of math, you can’t run away from it, just find a way to deal with it. Make learning fun by using Abacus for it.

Abacus helps you to solve basic and complicated math at your fingertips. The Abacus tool has beads & a rod, it represents the units’, Tens, Hundred’s. It makes a process easier, and once you get the hold of that tool and with thorough practices, you can even do mental calculation, making the calculation process lot faster. The Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication & Division at your fingertips plus fun guaranteed. Be clear with basics and Abacus will definitely help you to overcome the fear of Math as a subject and will boost your self-confidence.

Benefit of using Abacus tool:

1. It helps you to get command on Math:

Math is not a subject, where you can just learn the formula and boom you become a professional, it takes time and rigorous practice because different sums require different application. Abacus teaches you techniques which can be universally applied thereby giving you an upper hand to have command at it.

2. Increases the retention power & improves concentration:

At the very beginning of Abacus class, you are asked to solve some exercises which includes, using both your hands to write number, several images are to memorized. When you constantly work on these things, you generate a photographic memory which helps in improving concentration and memorize images.

3. Boosts Self-Confidence:

Abacus system has a global approval because of which there are various competitions which are conducted at State level, National level & international level. When you enroll for the Abacus class, you are being trained to participate in such competitions. It offers you a platform to showcase your skills, thereby boosting your confidence.

4. It improves speed and accuracy:

When you visually solve a math problem, automatically your speed increases, and with the right amount of practice, you deliver the accurate results. As mentioned earlier, there are various exams which are conducted, the purpose of the exam is to test your speed and accuracy, you are asked to solve a certain set of sums within a stipulated time period and Abacus helps you to optimize your time in solving those questions.

5. Enhances your listening skills:

Mental calculations are the part of Abacus training, students need to pay a closer attention to the numbers & on the mathematical expression which teacher dictates. It further enhances the listening ability.

Penkraft conducts classes, course, online courses, live courses, workshops, teachers’ training & online teachers’ training in Handwriting Improvement, Calligraphy, Abacus Maths, Vedic Maths, Phonics and various Craft & Artforms — Madhubani, Mandala, Warli, Gond, Lippan Art, Kalighat, Kalamkari, Pichwai, Cheriyal, Kerala Mural, Pattachitra, Tanjore Painting, One Stroke Painting, Decoupage, Image Transfer, Resin Art, Fluid Art, Alcohol Ink Art, Pop Art, Knife Painting, Scandinavian Art, Water Colors, Coffee Painting, Pencil Shading, Resin Art Advanced etc. at pan-India locations. With our mission to inspire, educate, empower & uplift people through our endeavours, we have trained & operationally supported (and continue to support) 1500+ home-makers to become Penkraft Certified Teachers? in various disciplines.

DIY ideas for room décor

Looking to add a little personality to your living space without spending a fortune? Check out these DIY ideas for room décor! From simple projects that can be completed in a few hours, to more involved undertakings that might take a weekend to complete, there’s sure to be a project here that’s perfect for you. So get creative and start decorating!

Decorating your room doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little creativity, you can DIY your way to a stylish space. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Create a gallery wall: Start with a blank wall and build up a collection of art, photos, and other objects.

2. Display your favourite photos or wall stickers: Photos are a great way to personalize your room and show off your favourite memories. You can display them on your walls or on a photo collage. Arrange them in a way that pleases you, and don’t be afraid to mix and match frames and sizes. Use wall stickers or decals. Wall stickers and decals are a great way to add personality to your room without spending a lot of money. There are a variety of designs and colour’s to choose from, so you can find the perfect ones for your room.

3. Make your own headboard: Get creative with an old door, some wood, or fabric to create a one-of-a-kind headboard for your bed.

4. Get organized: Organize your space with some stylish storage solutions. Consider floating shelves, baskets, or apothecary cabinets.

5. Hang tapestries or curtains: Adding a tapestry or curtain can add visual interest and a touch of colour’s to your room. You can find affordable tapestries and curtains at most stores, or if you’re feeling creative, you can make your own.

6. Custom curtains: Custom Curtains can really make a difference in a room. You can make them yourself using fabric and a sewing machine, or you can buy ready-made curtains and add your own touches, like tiebacks or trim.

7. Bring in nature: Use plants or flowers. Add plants or flowers to your room to add a touch of nature. Adding them to your room can add a touch of nature and freshness. You can also use live plants or flowers.

8. Add some colour: You can create your own wall art using colours, posters, photos, or even fabric. Get creative and frame your favourite pieces or create a collage. Paint an accent wall or add colour-ful accessories to make your room pop.

9. Throw pillows: Personalized throw pillows are a great way to add some style to your room. You can use old clothes or fabric to make them, or you can buy some cute pillowcases and embroider them with your initials or a design.

10. Home Made Scented Candles: Scented candles are really easy to make at home. It can really help to set the mood in a room. You can make your own candles by melting down old candles and adding your own essential oils.

Whether you’re on a budget or just want to get creative, these DIY room decor ideas are sure to inspire. There are endless possibilities when it comes to decorating your room. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform any space into a stylish and inviting space. If you’re looking for some easy and affordable DIY ideas for your room décor, check out these posts for inspiration! Plus, don’t forget to start decorating today!

Penkraft conducts classes, course, online courses, live courses, workshops, teachers’ training & online teachers’ training in Handwriting Improvement, Calligraphy, Abacus Maths, Vedic Maths, Phonics and various Craft & Artforms — Madhubani, Mandala, Warli, Gond, Lippan Art, Kalighat, Kalamkari, Pichwai, Cheriyal, Kerala Mural, Pattachitra, Tanjore Painting, One Stroke Painting, Decoupage, Image Transfer, Resin Art, Fluid Art, Alcohol Ink Art, Pop Art, Knife Painting, Scandinavian Art, Water Colors, Coffee Painting, Pencil Shading, Resin Art Advanced etc. at pan-India locations. With our mission to inspire, educate, empower & uplift people through our endeavours, we have trained & operationally supported (and continue to support) 1500+ home-makers to become Penkraft Certified Teachers? in various disciplines.

Scandinavian art – its origin, nuances, and the recent surge in its popularity

Clean, basic lines, minimalism, and functionality are the hallmarks of Scandinavian Art. A nature touch, refined detail, thin, light, and transparent designs are some of Scandinavian Art’s Styles. Scandinavian Art is one of the popular modern art forms. It is a nordic style that is also known as scandi.

Scandinavian art is simple, with clean lines and bright colors. This art emerged alongside the Modernist revolution in Europe and America. The word Scandinavian Art emerged in the 1950s. According to a survey, there was functionalism in Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, and Danish Art Styles. While popular in Europe Scandinavian Art got fame in North America
too. The exhibition showcased Nordic Art to the audience of the United States and Canada. Art styles have become very popular in Urban society. And people are liking it enormously and widely. Scandinavian Art releases a kind of happiness, calmness and gives peace to mind. Its simple design and colors make people attracted to it. Scandinavian art is so elegant and
beautiful and makes people happy with its outlook. The design itself has so modernity that people prefer this artform a lot and that is why it is very famous among modern art enthusiasts. Scandinavian art has little and simple natural elements such as trees birds, trees, animals
plants, and flowers. Scandinavian Art is not only about art, but it is also about designs such as interior designs and architect. It also includes furniture, Textile, and lighting. Its warm and clean theme and calming
nature is the reason why it is so popular in urban areas. It is full of life without any chaos. In the stressful world, Scandivnian art is one of the things that free everyday stress. Its interior designs create stress-free areas and provide relief and peace. Scandinavian Art now has become one of the of modern-day life’s parts

Penkraft conducts classes, course, online courses, live courses, workshops, teachers' training & online teachers' training in Handwriting Improvement, Calligraphy, Abacus Maths, Vedic Maths, Phonics and various Craft & Artforms - Madhubani, Mandala, Warli, Gond, Lippan Art, Kalighat, Kalamkari, Pichwai, Cheriyal, Kerala Mural, Pattachitra, Tanjore Painting, One Stroke Painting, Decoupage, Image Transfer, Resin Art, Fluid Art, Alcohol Ink Art, Pop Art, Knife Painting, Scandinavian Art, Water Colors, Coffee Painting, Pencil Shading, Resin Art Advanced etc. at pan-India locations. With our mission to inspire, educate, empower & uplift people through our endeavours, we have trained & operationally supported (and continue to support) 1500+ home-makers to become Penkraft Certified Teachers? in various disciplines.    

Sunday, 26 February 2023

Reviving the lost heritage of Tanjore Painting

The Tanjore Painting is a type of painting which originated in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It was typically done on cotton, silk, or paper and set within delicate borders with complex patterns usually done in gold on black or brown background. These paintings have been known as one of the most important types of Asian painting and are among the most important contributions to world art. The most notable prior to the 20th century were made by the courts of the Nayak of Vallalar, Rulers of Tanjore, and Thanjavur.

The origin is unknown, and it is assumed that it was brought to India around the 14th century. The art reached its peak during the 16th and 17th centuries under rulers like Virupaksha Raja (1574-1599), Raja Ravi Varma (1623-1656), and Ranganatha Sethupathi (1702–1728).

These paintings have been known as Tanjore paintings since the late 18th century, after the town of Thanjavur (formerly Tanjore), where they were produced in great quantity for the local nobility. The paintings often depict Hindu religious themes, gods and goddesses, and scenes from Indian epics. Tanjore paintings are considered to be among the best classical Indian paintings.

The first Tanjore paintings were probably produced in the late 16th century. In the late 18th century, the British East India Company began trading with the Thanjavur region, and the paintings soon became popular among the British. In the early 19th century, Tanjore paintings began to be produced in large quantities for the European market.

The paintings were used primarily on walls and ceilings in temples, palaces, and for decoration of store rooms. The style is different from the usual Hindu styles. The first few rows were usually of two-wheeled chariots with animals, human figures, goddesses and other similar forms. Then came different genres which included stories about Puranas, Bhagavata and Ramayana, rides on elephants in procession through towns and villages accompanied by musicians playing instruments like ghatam and violin or by dancing performers.

A revival in interest began in Tamil Nadu in 1922 and has since been supported by several organizations. The national government allocated a grant for the preservation of the paintings. Most of the murals are located in the villages of Thiruvaiyaru, Thanjavur, and Kumbakonam.

There are also a few at Kilpauk Garden, Chennai.

The paintings depict a wide range of religious and secular subjects. They include scenes from the Hindu epics the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as from the classical Tamil works Silapathikaram, Manimekalai, and Periya Puranam.

The Thiruvaiyru murals are located in the Sri Thyagaraja Temple and the Thyagaraja Aradhana Mutt. The Thanjavur murals are located in the Brihadeeswara Temple, the Rajarajeswaram Temple, and the Thanjavur Palace. The Kumbakonam murals are located in the Sarangapani Temple and the Nageswara Temple.

The paintings in the Tamil Nadu murals are not limited to Hindu religious subjects. They also include secular and historical scenes, such as a court scene from the Vijayanagara period, and a procession of elephants.

The Tamil Nadu murals were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

The murals in Tamil Nadu are a beautiful and unique part of the region's history and culture. They are well worth a visit for anyone interested in art or Indian history.

Tanjore Painting depict a variety of religious and secular scenes, and are a popular tourist attraction.

Penkraft conducts classes, course, online courses, live courses, workshops, teachers' training & online teachers' training in Handwriting Improvement, Calligraphy, Abacus Maths, Vedic Maths, Phonics and various Craft & Artforms - Madhubani, Mandala, Warli, Gond, Lippan Art, Kalighat, Kalamkari, Pichwai, Cheriyal, Kerala Mural, Pattachitra, Tanjore Painting, One Stroke Painting, Decoupage, Image Transfer, Resin Art, Fluid Art, Alcohol Ink Art, Pop Art, Knife Painting, Scandinavian Art, Water Colors, Coffee Painting, Pencil Shading, Resin Art Advanced etc. at pan-India locations. With our mission to inspire, educate, empower & uplift people through our endeavours, we have trained & operationally supported (and continue to support) 1500+ home-makers to become Penkraft Certified Teachers? in various disciplines.

Copperplate Calligraphy – A Rebound Trend

Calligraphy is making a rebound. After years of being overshadowed by digital fonts, this elegant writing style is making a comeback. Calligraphy is seeing a resurgence in popularity, with a particular focus on copperplate calligraphy Copperplate calligraphy is particularly popular right now, thanks to its beautiful, timeless look. This elegant style is a great way to add some personality to your writing, and it's a great way to make a statement.

What is copperplate calligraphy?

Copperplate calligraphy is a form of calligraphy that uses a thin, pointed pen nib to produce delicate, detailed letters. The word "copperplate" refers to the copper plates used to print books and other documents in the 1800s. This type of calligraphy was very popular during that time period, and many of the documents we see today were written in this style.

The main difference between copperplate and other styles of calligraphy is the way the pen is held. When writing in copperplate, the nib is held at a 45-degree angle to the paper. This allows for the thin, pointed tip to produce the fine lines and intricate details that are characteristic of this style.

If you're interested in learning copperplate calligraphy, there are many resources available online and in libraries. You can also find classes taught by experienced calligraphers. With a little practice, you'll be able to produce beautiful letters in this timeless style.

What are the benefits of copperplate calligraphy?

Copperplate calligraphy is a form of calligraphy that is done with a pointed pen and a copperplate nib. The benefits of copperplate calligraphy are many.

One of the benefits of copperplate calligraphy is that it is very forgiving. You can make mistakes and still produce beautiful letters. Copperplate is also a very versatile style and can be used for a variety of applications, from wedding invitations to menus.

Another benefit of copperplate calligraphy is that it is relatively easy to learn. With a little bit of practice, you can produce beautiful letters that will add a touch of elegance to any document. So if you are looking for a beautiful and versatile calligraphy style, copperplate calligraphy is a great option.

Why is copperplate calligraphy becoming a popular trend?

Copperplate calligraphy is becoming a popular trend for many reasons. First, it is a beautiful and elegant form of calligraphy. Second, versatility of this artform which can be used for a variety of purposes. Third, it is relatively easy to learn, making it a great option for beginners.

One of the reasons why copperplate calligraphy is becoming so popular is because it is a very versatile style. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including invitations, thank you cards, and even business cards. Copperplate calligraphy is also a great option for adding a unique and elegant touch to your letters.

Another reason why copperplate calligraphy is becoming a popular trend is because it is relatively easy to learn. While it does take some practice to perfect your technique, the basics of this style of calligraphy are not overly complicated. This makes it a great option for those who are just starting out.

How can you learn copperplate calligraphy?

There are a few different ways that you can learn copperplate calligraphy. One way is to take a class. Classes are offered through a variety of different venues, such as community colleges, adult education programs, and even online at Penkraft.

Another way to learn is to purchase a calligraphy tutorial. These tutorials can be found online or in stores.

A third way to learn is to find a mentor. This can be done by attending a calligraphy workshop or by contacting a calligrapher online.

Whichever way you choose to learn, make sure that you practice regularly. With enough practice you can improve consistently.

If you're looking to try out this trendy form of calligraphy, there are a few things you'll need to get started. First, you'll need some calligraphy supplies, including a nib, penholder, and ink. You can find all of these items at Penkraft. Once you have the supplies, you can start practicing the basic strokes and letterforms. With a little bit of practice, you'll be able to create beautiful copperplate calligraphy letters.

Know all about Madhubani Painting

Madhubani painting is an ancient art form which has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. The art form originated in the Indian state of Bihar and was popularised by Lalit Kumar Saxena, who was born in 1951. It is one of the most prominent forms of Indian art that have been practised for centuries. The earliest examples have been dated back to 1500 BC and even before this time, there are references to figures being painted on pottery vessels as well as wooden tablets known as ‘Vedic tablets’ or ‘Blackstone Tablets’ which were used by priests during religious rites.

History of Madhubani painting:

Madhubani painting is an ancient art form that originated in Mandal, Bihar. The origin of madhubani paintings can be traced back to 12th century AD, when it was used for religious purposes at the Jain temples.

Madhubani paintings are popular in Bihar and Jharkhand because of its unique style, which includes intricate details on rice paper or cloth using pastel colors like white and blue-green; gold dust or silver powder used as pigments; flowers made from flower petals such as lotus leaves (white) or tulips (red), etc.

Madhubani paintings are often used as a form of adornment for the walls of houses, temples or even as bed sheets. Some artisans also use them to create greeting cards and other products.

What is this art form?

Madhubani painting, a folk art practiced by women in the Mithila region of Bihar state in India, is an excellent example of an ancient tradition that has gone on to flourish over time. It is a traditional form of art that originated as part of religious rituals and has since evolved into an important form of expression for many people across the country. The practice continues today with some artists still using old techniques and materials while others continue to experiment with new ideas.

Mithila painting is an important part of the region’s culture and identity, with many artists using it to explore social issues and express their opinions. It has also been used as a medium for expressing political views; in 2016, a group of women painters created a mural on one of the walls at the government secretariat in Bihar state to protest against sexual harassment.

Types of Madhubani paintings:

Madhubani paintings can be divided into two broad categories - Madhubani paintings of the plains and Madhubani paintings of the hills. The Madhubani paintings of the plains are usually made on paper or cloth, while those of the hills are made on walls.

The first type includes all kinds of geometric designs done with a stick in different colours and shapes like triangles, squares etc., but does not include any figures or designs that represent people or animals as these are not suited for such purpose due to their small size (approximately 1-2 cm). A typical example would be an eight-pointed star which has eight equal points but no central point like an asterisk would have been in earlier times when these were used as decorations in homes where there were no windows available so people had no means to look out through them at night time when they heard noises being made outside by wild animals trying unsuccessfully to get inside; thus, making this form very effective at keeping unwanted intruders out!

The second type of Madhubani painting is usually done on the walls of houses in the hills, and although it does include some human figures, these are usually stylized to represent just about anybody who may be present at any given time. For example, a person walking down a mountain path would have been depicted as such by using lines that resembled that particular activity; thus, making it easy for people to recognize what was happening without having to use words which were not available back then anyway!

Madhubani paintings are an ancient art form which have gained a lot of popularity in recent times.

Madhubani paintings are an ancient art form which have gained a lot of popularity in recent times. It is believed that this art form originated from the Madhubani district of Bihar. This art form is popular across the world and has been adopted by various artists, including those who practice it in their own home away from home.

Madhubani painting is said to be very complex, as it involves many different techniques such as stippling, dotting, color mixing and so on. The colors used for these paintings are derived from natural sources like lemon grass powder (called khus), turmeric powder (called khur), saffron (called safeda).

Conclusion

Madhubani painting is an art form which has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. It has also been called the “Sanskrit of India” since its origins can be traced back to ancient times when it was mainly used for religious purposes. This article provides a detailed description of this art form with an emphasis on its history, origin and significance.