Bengal Pattachitra Art is a narrative style of art and is known for
its story telling ability. Painted scrolls were used to document and narrate
stories. Also, the genre is famous for bringing attention to social causes, and
for its wit, humour and satire.The vibrant and expressive folk art by the patua community from
West Bengal is a truly colourful one, which is being sustained in times of
change.The patua scroll painting from eastern India, sometimes also called
patachitra scroll painting, is a delightful traditional art which
takes on a performative nature. Combining art and narrative through song, patachitra
from West Bengal has its unique features, though similar traditions can be
found in a few other places concentrated around the state, in states such as
Bihar and Odisha. Approximated to be dating back to 13th century, this art form
has reflected topics far and wide, from myths to current social issues. In
times of change, with various initiatives, the practitioners of this pictorial
narrative art have also diversified themselves to sustain.In a village in West Midnapore district in West Bengal, around 250 patuas
or painters can be found keeping this tradition alive. More than just painters,
patuas are also lyricists, singers, performers and true artists.The participating artists are experts of their field having participated in
the fourth
edition of the prestigious Ojas Art Award and
exhibited their art works at Zee Jaipur Literature Festival
2017. The award co-organised between Teamwork Arts,
producer of the Jaipur Literature Festival, and Delhi-based art
organization OJAS Art. In 2018 the award focused on excellence in
Bengal Pattachitra Art.Satrangi is an annual exhibition and explores one genre of traditional/ tribal
arts annually. Previously there have been survey shows in the genres of Gond,
Madhubani-Mithila and Bheel.