The Origins of Art

The rich tradition of art from the Pardhan Gond community of central India is now internationally acclaimed. But what is not as well known is the fact that it is a surprisingly young form, practised in this manner for not more than 35 years. So how did it evolve?

Artist Bhajju Shyam accompanies Japanese photographer Kodai Matsuoka on a visit to Patangarh. The book weaves together their conversation in the form of an inspired verbal and visual dialogue between a knowledgeable insider and a curious visitor. Art and illustrations created by artists from the community complement the photographs with uncanny precision, literally embodying the relationship between lived life and the birth of art.

Selling points

• Engaging and accessible for lay readers interested in art, culture, and the relationship between the two.
• Both travelogue and chronicle.
• Can be used in art, culture and anthropology courses.
• Beautiful layout and production, includes hand made screen printed insert.