Durgabai Vyam – a symbol of tradition and innovation. In the vibrant landscape of Indian art she started with painting mud walls in Barbaspur and she has also been honored with Padma Shri. Her work from the tribal heartlands of Madhya Pradesh to the national stage reflects her hard work of Gond art itself.
The Art of Her Roots
Born in 1973 in a remote village of Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh. Durgabai Vyam belongs to the Pardhan Gond Community, which is known for its storytelling traditions and worship for nature. She started her artistic work from an early age of six. Her mother used to teach her the traditional Digna art. Digna art are the geometrical designs and patterns which are created on floors and walls during festivals and golden occasions.
If we uncover the history of Gond tradition, art is more than decoration, it is believed to be a language that expresses folklore and community’s relation with nature. Her grandmother used to make intricate paintings on their house mud walls and Durgabai used to be impressed by it. This sparked the love for Gond art which she carried with her through life.
Two Artists, One Vision
In 1996, Durgabai Vyam was invited to participate in the artistic workshop which was held at the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya and this was one of the biggest events in her life as this workshop exposed her to a larger audience and brought her an opportunity to work on contemporary mediums like canvas and paper other than wall.
During that year, she got married to Subhash Vyam, a peer sculptor and artist. Both being in love with art, started exploring collaborative art forms, painting, merging sculptures and trying to push the boundaries of Gond art. While working together, Subhash brought a three-dimensional element to their projects, and through the use of visuals, Durgabai added complex storytelling. This became the hallmark of their collaboration projects and exhibitions.
Her Unique Style
Use of vibrant colors, tangled lines and dot patterns which make up the beautiful image of flora, fauna, and daily village life is what defines Gond Art. What makes Durgabai’s work distinct is her ability to blend the essence of traditional Gond with bits of modernity, which makes them accessible and meaningful to present day audiences. Each painting of Her’s tells something unique. In her work Durgabai Vyam often uses symbols of animals, trees, gods, human beings, to depict social themes, environment concerns, personal stories and many more.
Beyond Borders
Durgabai Vyam was honored with the Padma Shri by the Indian Government in 2022, which is the fourth highest civilian award in the country. Achieving this milestone was not just personal but a validation of the cultural significance of Gond art. It conveys that tribal art is a vital part of India’s artistic and cultural heritage. Over time, work of Durgabai Vyam has been featured in renowned galleries India and globally. Her work expands from the Jehangir Art Gallery in Mumbai to Cultural festivals in North America and Europe, her art has been adored.
Read Also: Sunayana Malhotra: Crafting Art with Soul
Art That Inspires
Her excellence in Gond art, brought Durgabai into the national headlines, which inspired the young generation of tribal artists to innovate and embrace their heritage. Her artistry symbolizes the value of staying connected to one’s root. This reflects that when art is driven by passion and purpose, it has no boundaries.
