Miniature Painting

                                                              Miniature Painting

About the Course

Miniature painting is a highly intricate and refined form of traditional art that emphasizes fine detailing, precision, and historical richness. This art form, deeply rooted in Indian heritage, features various regional styles such as Mughal, Pahari, Jain, Rajasthani, and more. Although called “miniature,” it’s not limited by size but defined by technique, surface smoothness, and meticulous brushwork using methods like stippling, hatching, and pointillism.

This 3-month certificate course is tailored for those passionate about heritage art and looking to master traditional miniature techniques. Students will explore various styles, learn to prepare surfaces like cloth and paper, and practice using poster colours to create nature-based, figurative, and devotional works. The course combines traditional knowledge with contemporary practice, guided by experienced instructors.

Duration & Batch Timings

Course Duration:
25 Sessions over 3 Months

Batch Options:

• Online: 3 dayin a Week — 1 Hour per Session

• On-Campus: Monday & Friday — 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

• Weekend (Part-Time): Saturday & Sunday — 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Note: Timings are flexible and may be adjusted based on faculty and student availability.

What You’ll Learn

 Introduction to Miniature Painting

• History and origin of miniature painting in India
  Significance and evolution of miniature art across dynasties
  Understanding the spiritual, cultural, and aesthetic value of miniature art

2. Regional Styles of Miniature Painting

• Pala Style – Buddhist influence with palm-leaf manuscript art
  Jain Style – Symbolic, text-heavy religious paintings
  Mughal Style – Realism, nature, and court scenes
  Rajasthani Style – Bold colors and folk narrative elements
  Pahari Style – Delicate lines and romantic landscapes
  Deccan Style – Strong Persian influence and vibrant detailing
  Orissa Style – Mythological storytelling and folk aesthetics

3. Materials & Tools

• Introduction to traditional and modern tools
  Types of brushes used for miniature detailing
  Use of poster colors for fine brushwork
  Surface preparation: paper, handmade sheets, treated cloth

4. Drawing Foundation

• Basic drawing techniques for miniatures
  Line drawing, grid method, pattern sketching
  Developing precision and symmetry in design
  Understanding balance, proportion, and composition

5. Pattern & Design Work

• Drawing traditional motifs like floral borders, geometric fillers
  Replicating folk-inspired design elements
  Composition layout and subject placement in miniatures

6. Colour Theory & Techniques

• Understanding the color wheel and traditional color combinations
  Poster color mixing and application
  Layering and blending techniques for a smooth finish
  Creating tonal variations and shadows in miniature painting

7. Brush Handling Skills

• Holding and maneuvering fine brushes
  Practicing traditional brush strokes
  Control and pressure techniques for detailing

8. Poster Colour Work

• Painting on paper: landscapes, animal & bird compositions, symbolic elements
  Painting on cloth: figurative themes, devotional scenes, storytelling panels
  Proper layering for richness and precision
  Maintaining texture and smoothness of miniature surface

9. Surface Preparation Techniques

• Preparing paper for smoothness and durability
  Treating cloth for paint absorption and finish
  Priming and sketch transferring methods

10. Thematic Compositions

• Nature-based work (flora & fauna in miniatures)
  Human figure study and placement
  Devotional painting themes based on mythology
  Composition planning based on style-specific rules