Roopankar is divided into two sections. The gallery of modem art represents
some of the best examples of contemporary Indian art and sculpture. However,
the section devoted to tribal and folk art excites visitors. Some 4000 objects
collected from all over Madhya Pradesh form pan of the permanent exhibition
on rural arts. These embody the rich artistic traditions of the different ethnic
communities that exist in the state. Artefacts created by the Bhils ofjhabua,
Gonds from Mandia and the different communities from Bastar are juxtaposed together.
An interesting innovation is a selection of paintings on canvas and bitumen
paper by tribal and folk artists experimenting with a new medium.
Despite the unfamiliar base, the artists have used the same techniques and strokes
to create bold and vibrant paintings. In a state where artistic traditions are
rich and varied, the displayed objects represent the regions and the peoples.
Terracotta in the form of animals, birds, toys and images fromJhabua, Saraguja
and Bastar are on view as well as bell metal objects, wooden masks and panels,
musical instruments, textiles, baSlHWand panels decorated with mud sculpture
adapted from domestic walls in remote villages.
Bharat Bhavan, Shamla Hills
Bhopal
Timing: 10.30 am to 5.00 pm
Closed on Sundays and government holidays.