North of Mumbai, amidst forests and agricultural lands adjoining the outer ranges of the Sahyadri mountains, we are very fortunately situated in the heart of Warli country. The Warlis – a tribal people – are renowned for their traditional art style, popularly called Warli paintings, so wholeheartedly accepted by contemporary society and almost a household name today.

The Warli paintings are one of India’s rich palate of folk paintings. These paintings are characterized by their remarkable, minimalistic style, the use of largely white and earth colours and a wealth of geometric designs, as lines, dots, triangles. There is an element of humility in the style, yet these simplistic paintings convey so much about the enduring expression of these people’s understanding, a representation of their societal beliefs, sentiments and customs.

The paintings effortlessly capture the easy-going, calm everyday lives of these people, farming, going to market, preparing for a feast, enjoying a drink, there’s so much diversity amidst all the unfussiness.

The world of nature is integral to Warli existence and their paintings are vividly infused with myriad aspects of nature. The weaver birds building their swaying nests on a Palmyra top in the village centre, the snake slithering in a corner, a lizard scurrying up the house wall, a leopard lurking in the nearby wilds. Of course, there are times when some ancient experiences, know-how and beliefs are keenly depicted in the paintings.

Long neglected, little known, these traditional art-forms now have new saviours of their style and expression.

To buy or to see a list, catalogue or the paintings, please send an email, call us or visit our office in Mumbai or CampHarit.