Kerala murals are known for their emphasis on beauty, clarity and symmetry. Murals were used to depict religious and mythological stories drawn on the walls of temples and churches in South India from the 8th century. The traditional mural paintings of Kerala are a fine art of skill and creative excellence.

The traditional mural paintings of Kerala are a fine art of skill and creative excellence. Most of the noted mural works of Kerala were done between the 15th and 19th centuries. They bear a stamp of uniqueness in techniques used and aesthetics.

Kerala mural paintings are a type of art done in temples for more than 2000 years by local artists and passed down through families. These paintings are famous for being beautiful, clear, and symmetrical. They were used to show stories from religion and mythology on the walls of temples and churches in South India starting from the 8th century. The artists who create these traditional murals are highly skilled and creative, making this art form a valuable part of Kerala's heritage.

In this art, artists use traditional colours like red, yellow ochre, green, blue, white, and black. This set of colours is called  "panchavarna," meaning five-coloured. Colours are essential in Kerala mural painting, bringing energy and liveliness to the detailed artwork. The colour palette of these paintings is a mix of lively shades, mainly drawn from the beauty of nature. Initially, artists used traditional mineral pigments, but nowadays, modern acrylic and oil-based paints are also used.

 Kerala mural painting is a unique form of art that originated in the Indian state of Kerala and is known for its intricate details, vibrant colours, and mythological themes.

Peacocks have been significant subjects in art and painting for various reasons, and their inclusion carries symbolic, aesthetic, and cultural importance. The bird's representation can convey a range of meanings and emotions, making it a versatile and enduring subject in the world of art.

This painting depicts a scene with a peacock by the riverside. A painting titled "Peacock by the Riverside" from the perspective of a Kerala mural artist might feature the distinct characteristics of traditional Kerala mural art. The artist might use a variety of techniques to capture the details of the peacock's plumage, the flowing water, and the surrounding environment.
In this particular painting, the artist may depict a peacock in a riverside setting using the traditional Kerala mural style. The peacock could be adorned with elaborate patterns and vibrant colours typical of this art form. The riverside scene might include lush greenery, flowing water, and perhaps other elements from nature that are commonly found in Kerala landscapes.

Saju is a student of the famed Guruvayur temple Devaswom-run Institute of Mural Painting with extensive training in fine arts, art history and mural art. The temple, which is renowned for its exquisite murals, set up the Institute in 1989 to train youngsters and preserve the ancient art form. He is also actively involved in restoration work of Kerala Murals to preserve this heritage art.

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