At Aranya Earthcraft, we follow Rajasthani process of making papier-mâché, (mixture of paper pulp, khadiya mitti Or white clay, edible glue or khane wala gond). We, having been majorly inspired by nature and human moods, the artistic approach is reflected in each piece we create. 'Contemporizing of our inspiration is the core of our art/design concept'. We believe in making anything and everything out of this versatile material. Though we have limits of its usage in daily life, but we have always tried and gone beyond the limits, from making arty jewellery to coasters, candle holders, wall plates, clocks, lamps, platters, door laminations and keep going on with experimenting and bringing more products, unbelievably made of papier-mâché. Using this material helps us in reducing waste (everything is recyclable or bio-degradable) and usage of least electricity (handmade and sun/air dried).
Kashmir
Process: Soak the paper in water for several days
until it disintegrates, Drain the excess water and mix the paper pulp. Put the
pulp in a mold and let it dry. Cut the shape from the mold in two halves and
glue it back together
Features: The Kashmir papier-mâché is known for its
vibrant colors, floral patterns, and motifs inspired by nature and Persian art.
Apply a layer of glue and gypsum to the surface, Rub the surface smooth with a
stone or baked piece of clay. Paint a base colour and add a free-hand design, after
the paper layers are applied and dried, the surface is smoothed, painted, and
sometimes lacquered.
Products: Items produced include decorative items
like vases, bowls, wall hangings, and furniture pieces, as well as detailed
figurines.
Rajasthan
Process: In Rajasthan, the process of papier-mâché is
quite different. The paper pulp is mixed with river bed clay (khadia mitti) and
edible glue (gum arabica) to make a dough. The designs are made free hand shapes.
The items are usually painted and sometimes decorated with gold leaf and
mirrors.
Features: The Rajasthani papier-mâché is often
characterized by the use of bright, bold colors and the application of
intricate designs, including traditional Rajasthani motifs, elephants, and
peacocks.
Bihar
Process: The papier-mâché craft in Bihar, especially
from the region of Madhubani, is distinguished by a slightly different
technique. The paper is mixed Multani mitti and soaked fenugreek seed paste.
The color palette is often earthy and natural, and the design is more geometric
or tribal.
Features: Bihari papier-mâché is often decorated with
intricate patterns drawn from traditional Madhubani art, including motifs
inspired by nature, animals, and mythology. The products are typically line
drawing with black ink and few colours to fill, and the finishing is polished
but uneven
Products: Items such as decorative boxes, bowls, and
figurines are common, as well as masks used for traditional performances.
Each state’s unique approach to papier-mâché reflects its
cultural heritage, artistic traditions, and available resources, making this
craft one of India’s most diverse and cherished forms of art.
