Traditional Indian art forms take centre stage at Mumbai exhibition

Mumbai: A two-day exhibition in the city will spotlight India’s living hand-painted traditions, bringing together classical styles and contemporary interpretations under one roof.

Titled Hands That Paint Heritage, the showcase will be held at the Art House at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre on March 14 and 15, open to the public from 11am to 8pm. Curated by Mumbai-based gallery Cloth & Canvas, the exhibition brings together works inspired by traditions such as Pichwai and miniature painting alongside contemporary sacred iconography. The idea, organisers say, is to highlight how centuries-old visual practices continue to evolve through new materials, formats and artistic perspectives. The gallery, founded by Pushpa Sharma and Shreya Sharma Joysher, works closely with artisans across the country to preserve and promote hand-painted art traditions while introducing them to new collectors and design audiences. A key highlight of the exhibition is a collaboration with National Award-winning textile designer Gaurang Shah, known for his work with India’s handloom traditions. His Vignaharta series - a tribute to Lord Ganpati , combines textile techniques such as Jamdani, Alikam, Paithan and Cheriyal with painted imagery.

Through what Shah describes as a “loom to needle to brush” approach, the works interpret Ganpati motifs across different regional silk traditions, blending textile craftsmanship with visual art. “What drew us to these artisans was not just the beauty of their work, but the depth of what they carry. They are custodians of living visual languages,” said Shreya Sharma Joysher. “With this show, we hope to introduce these traditions to a wider audience.” Founded in 2020, Cloth & Canvas focuses on indigenous hand-painted art forms, offering original works and commissions while working directly with master craftsmen. The gallery currently represents nearly a thousand original works and collaborates with artisan communities across India.