I started another one of the Indian miniature class that I did at Princes School of Traditional Arts a few years ago as I really enjoyed it, and thought i
I have the same teacher Samantha Buckley, who I had 4 years ago. She is a very good teacher and very patient with the students so I am glad that I have her again. This time the class is held at the Art Workers Guild, a beautiful old building located near Russell Square, it is a lovely place to spend time drawing away.
Step 1
Sam gave us each a 'Wasali' paper that is especially made for the purpose of Indian miniature painting. It is made of 3 to 4 layers of a 300gsm thick paper glue together by flour and water. Our first task was to tape it down with gum tape( with water on the shiny side) and glue the paper onto a hard board.
Step 2
We used a broad brush and dip it in tea stain and brush over the surface of the board and let it dry.( tea stain - 3 tea bags and half cup of water - depending the effect you are after) brush it in one direction a few times)
Step 3
We selected the picture we want, and now use a sharp pencil to trace out the main outlines of what we would like to draw. I have chosen an elephant as i like the composition of the painting.
Step 4
We learn to use the squirrel hair brush. They are generally not available to buy in the UK and our teacher brought hers from India. These brushes are very fine and can only last up to 2 or 3 miniature paintings. They have to be taken care as they are very delicate. Sam prepared some Chinese ink in the mussel shells ( where paints are traditionally stored) and gave each us some ink and some water. She then showed us how to 'warm up' with these brushes, by drawing delicate spirals for us to get used to the feel of the brush. I have taken picture of my attempts.
Usually it is recommended that one does this for up to 30mins before a miniature painting not only to warm up, but to prepare one for the meditative task ahead.
Step 5
By now the tea stain paper should be dry up, so now is the opportunity to burnish the paper with a very smooth stone you can get from the natural history museum( or shell as it is traditionally done). One is to burnish the paper both horizontally and vertically for equal length of time. This exercise should take up to 15 mins until the paper surface is smooth with a slight sheen. So now the paper is ready for the next class!
