An interview with Banita Hamirwasia, renowned artist & founder of Vaikuntham, an Authentic Indian Tanjore Art
In this interview, we sit down with Banita Hamirwasia, a renowned artist and the visionary founder of Vaikuntham, a studio dedicated to preserving and promoting Authentic Indian Tanjore Art.
With her deep-rooted passion for Indian heritage and craftsmanship, Banita shares her artistic journey, the significance of Tanjore painting, and how Vaikuntham is bridging tradition with contemporary expression.
Banita, could you share with us the story behind Vaikuntham? What inspired you to start a brand focused on authentic Tanjore art?
Banita Hamirwasia: My journey into Tanjore art began unexpectedly while working on a glass painting. I came across a breathtaking Tanjore painting that left me utterly fascinated.
The intricacy, divinity, and richness of the art form drew me in, and I knew I had to explore it further. Finding someone to teach me the authentic process was challenging, but I eventually discovered a local artisan.
Sitting on the floor of his modest room, I spent months learning the intricate techniques, overcoming challenges, and mastering each step of this beautiful craft. Vaikuntham was born out of this passion to preserve the authenticity of Tanjore art and share its timeless beauty with the world.
Tanjore painting is renowned for its intricate detailing and use of gold leaf. What efforts does Vaikuntham make to ensure the authenticity and traditional methods are maintained while catering to modern tastes?
Banita Hamirwasia: At Vaikuntham, every Tanjore painting is crafted with utmost dedication to traditional techniques. We use the purest 24-carat gold, ensuring the richness and authenticity of each piece.
The embossing of gold is a particularly challenging process, but it adds a unique texture and depth to the artwork. While maintaining the traditional depictions of gods and goddesses, I also work on blending these with modern preferences by experimenting with abstract designs and customizations.
This careful balance ensures the artwork resonates with both traditionalists and modern art enthusiasts.
Can you tell us about the artists you work with? How do you ensure the skills and techniques of Tanjore art are passed down to the next generation?
Banita Hamirwasia: I currently work solo, immersing myself in solitude and soft music while creating each piece. The process is deeply personal to me. However, I am passionate about passing on these skills.
Through workshops and exhibitions, I aim to inspire young artists to appreciate Tanjore art and adopt its intricate methods. By sharing knowledge about authentic materials and techniques, I hope to ensure this beautiful tradition thrives in the hands of the next generation.
What are the biggest challenges you face in promoting and selling traditional art like Tanjore in today’s market, especially with competition from modern and digital art forms?
Banita Hamirwasia: One of the biggest challenges is the weight and cost of Tanjore paintings, as the materials used, like 24-carat gold and semi-precious stones, are expensive.
Additionally, with the rise of modern and digital art, traditional forms like Tanjore must compete in a diverse market. While some customers appreciate pure traditional art, others prefer a fusion of traditional and modern styles.
Striking this balance and educating customers about the value of authentic Tanjore art remain ongoing efforts
What kind of materials and techniques are essential to creating authentic Tanjore art? How do these contribute to the piece’s texture, vibrancy, and overall visual appeal?
Banita Hamirwasia: Authentic Tanjore art relies on materials like 24-carat gold, semi-precious stones, natural colors, and glass, each contributing to its unique charm. The gold’s vibrant sheen adds richness, while the stones and intricate detailing enhance the artwork’s royal appearance.
The deep colors and glasswork create a sense of depth and luxury, making every piece a visual masterpiece. The meticulous process of embossing, layering, and painting ensures the final product is timeless and elegant.
What advice would you give to young artists or entrepreneurs who wish to preserve and promote traditional art forms in the modern world?
Banita Hamirwasia: My advice is to follow your passion fearlessly while staying true to the essence of the art form. Learn and master the traditional techniques, but also be open to innovation and finding your unique style.
Marketing your work is equally important to reach the right audience. Embrace modern tools like social media to showcase your creations while continuing to educate people about the significance and beauty of traditional art.
What’s next for Vaikuntham? Are there any exciting projects or collaborations in the pipeline that you can share with us?
Banita Hamirwasia: I am constantly working on new Tanjore paintings and exploring ideas for exhibitions to reach a wider audience.
One of my recent works, Ayodhya’s Ramji, received tremendous appreciation, especially during Diwali. Moving forward, I aim to collaborate with like-minded artists and organizations to promote Tanjore art globally while continuing to innovate within this traditional craft.
Banita Hamirwasia’s insights shed light on the richness of Tanjore Art and its evolving place in modern creativity.
Through Vaikuntham, she continues to inspire a new generation of artists while keeping this sacred tradition alive for years to come.
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