RANGOLI

Rangoli is an ancient ephemeral art form practiced in India. Designs are drawn onto the ground , usually in chalk or colored powder, colored sand or flower petals. Designs are passed from one generation to another keeping the tradition and art alive. The purpose of rangoli is decoration, and it is thought to bring good luck.

Design depictions may vary as they reflect traditions, folklore and practices that are unique to each area. It is traditionally done by women. Generally, this practice is showcased during occasions such as festivals, auspicious observations, marriage celebrations and other gatherings.

Rangoli designs can be simple geometric shapes, deity impressions, or flower and petal shapes, but there can be very elaborate designs created by numerous people.

CREATION OF RANGOLI

There are two primary ways to make a rangoli, dry and wet. Using a white material like chalk, sand, paint or flour, the artist marks a center point on the ground and cardinal points around it, usually in a square, hexagon or circle depending on region and personal preference. Ramifying that initially- simple pattern creates what is often and intricate and beautiful designs. Motifs from nature (leaves, petals, feathers) and geometric pattern are common.

GEOMETRIC PATTERN:

MOTIF PATTERN:

Once the outline is complete, the artist may choose to illuminate it with color, again using either wet or dry ingredients like paints, colored rice- water, gypsum powder, colored sand or dry pigments. The artist might also choose unprocessed materials like seeds, grains, spices , leaves or flower petals to achieve life like hues. Modern materials like crayons, dyed fabrics, acrylic paints and artificial coloring agents are also becoming common, allowing for brilliant and vibrant color choices.