Madhubani painting is one of India’s most celebrated folk art traditions. Originating from the Mithila region of Bihar, this vibrant art form was traditionally created on the walls and floors of homes during festivals and celebrations. Known for detailed line work, symbolic motifs, and rich storytelling, every element in a Madhubani painting carries meaning—from animals and plants to everyday life and nature.
In this hands-on course, you will learn fundamental Madhubani techniques while exploring composition, traditional motifs, and pattern building. You will also discover how to combine traditional art forms with sustainable creative practices by experimenting on eco-friendly surfaces like cardboard, handmade paper, fabric, and found materials.
Through guided demonstrations and exercises, you will create smaller study pieces throughout the course and complete a final Madhubani-inspired mixed-media artwork. No prior drawing or painting experience is required.
Course Rundown
Format: 4-Class Creative Course
Class 1: Introduction to Madhubani (History, Symbols & Line Work)
Explore the history, cultural importance, and symbolic language of Madhubani art. You will practice essential mark-making techniques like double lines, dots, and cross-hatching, build your own personal motif library, and complete a small line artwork.
Class 2: Composition & Pattern Building
Learn how Madhubani artists create balanced compositions through placement, symmetry, repetition, and decorative borders. You will plan composition sketches, design custom framing borders, and experiment with line work across varied surfaces like cardboard, handmade paper, fabric, and wood.
Class 3: Personal Stories Through Madhubani
Translate personal memories, places, and meaningful experiences into original Madhubani-inspired symbols. You will experiment with mixed-media techniques—combining paint with fabric scraps, thread, collage, and natural textures—to build a unique storytelling piece.
Class 4: Final Madhubani Artwork
Bring together your motif library, line techniques, composition skills, and sustainable materials to complete a finished mixed-media masterpiece. The course concludes with a supportive group sharing session to discuss process, inspiration, and finished pieces.
By The End Of This Course, You Will:
- Understand the history, cultural significance, and symbolism of Madhubani painting.
- Master traditional motifs, intricate pattern building, and line techniques.
- Create balanced visual compositions using symmetry, spatial awareness, and decorative borders.
- Combine traditional folk techniques with modern, sustainable materials and surfaces.
- Complete a series of study exercises and one finished mixed-media artwork.
Materials Required
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Drawing Basics: Sketch paper, pencil, and eraser.
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Inking: Black fine-tip markers.
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Recycled Surfaces: Cardboard, fabric scraps, old papers, or packaging materials you would like to experiment with.
Course Details
Dates: To be announced
Format: 4 weekly sessions
Location: Urban Art Collective Art Hub, 50 Bayswater Avenue, Ottawa
Instructor: Tanisha Dutta
Level: Beginner (No prior experience required)
Maximum Capacity: 12 students
Minimum Enrolment: 6 students required
