Published on April 4, 2026
Among the largest tribes in India, the Gonds have a recorded history that goes back 1400 years. Predominantly from the state of Madhya Pradesh, Gonds can also be found in pockets of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Encapsulating the essence of tribal art in India, the Gonds are renowned for their beautiful paintings, which are characterized and intriguing patterns. But Gond art wasn’t always so well-known; it has been brought into the mainstream artists in the last 40 or so years. Here, we highlight 14 Gond artists who have played a critical role in keeping this distinctive artistic heritage alive.
Jangarh Singh Shyam was a pivotal figure in the recognition of Gond art. Though the art form has been around for centuries, it was only in the 1980s that it gained widespread attention, largely due to Jangarh, a farmer and artist who was the first Gond artist to use acrylic on paper and canvas. His work led to the establishment of the ‘Jangarh Kalam’ school of Gond art. Jangarh passed away at the young age of 39 in 2001, but his legacy continues through his family members, who are also celebrated artists today. His house in Bhopal is a hub of creative activity, nurtured , Nankusia Bai, and their two children, Mayank and Japani Shyam.
Nankusia Bai, Jangarh’s wife, is a steadfast practitioner of the Jangarh Kalam. She learned the art from her husband and has continued to create vibrant pieces that often depict nature and the animals of her childhood in Sonpuri, Madhya Pradesh.
Mayank Shyam, born in 1987, is one of the youngest members of the Jangarh School. His Gond artworks have gained exposure through various workshops and exhibitions, including display at Sotheby’s in New York. A recipient of the state award in 2006, Mayank often features birds in his predominantly black and white compositions, striving to capture attention without the use of color.
Japani Shyam, named after her father’s first trip to Japan, embodies the artistic legacy of her father. Starting her painting journey at a young age, she was awarded the Kamala Devi award at just eleven. Japani’s first solo exhibition opened at Gallerie Ganesha in New Delhi in 2019, and her works, which narrate stories from nature, have been showcased internationally.
Subhash Vyam, Jangarh’s brother-in-law, has garnered acclaim as a Gond artist after initially sculpting in clay and wood. His art often reflects aquatic life and is enriched told , Durga Bai. He was recognized with the Rajya Hastha Shilpa Puraskar of Madhya Pradesh in 2002.
Durgabai Vyam, Subhash’s wife and Jangarh’s sister-in-law, began her artistic journey at six years old. With a focus on swirling patterns reminiscent of the paddy seeds seen in Gond jewelry, she co-authored the award-winning children’s book ‘The Night Life of Trees.’
Dhavat Singh Uikey, who transitioned to painting after exposure to Gond art through marriage into the Shyam family, has pushed traditional Gond art’s boundaries. His vibrant paintings often reflect the folk tales from his upbringing.
Bhajju Shyam, a Gond artist from Patangarh, Madhya Pradesh, was encouraged pursue art while in Bhopal. He has gained international recognition for his work, notably the book ‘London Jungle Book,’ as well as his award-winning collaborations on children’s literature.
Venkat Raman Singh Shyam joined his uncle Jangarh’s studio at sixteen. Embracing contemporary mediums like mixed media and animation, Venkat’s work reflects on significant events, including a series inspired 2008 terrorist attack on the Taj Hotel.
Suresh Kumar Dhurve, known for his bird and fish motifs, was inspired Jangarh to pursue art after losing his parents in childhood. His artistic journey has evolved from vibrant colors to predominantly monochrome works.
Narmada Prasad Tekam’s art, which features human and animal figures while drawing from mythology and religion, reflects his deep understanding of nature’s rhythm. His talent was recognized at an early age, leading to exhibitions, including one in Los Angeles in 2010.
Kala Bai, the first Pardhan Gond woman to use acrylic on canvas, depicts elements of nature such as trees and animals in her artwork. She and her husband contributed to the state map of Madhya Pradesh upon its formation.
Gariba Singh Tekam, inspired coming from a priestly community, depicts figures from the Gond pantheon in his art, showcasing the influence of his cultural roots.
Lastly, Rajendra Shyam worked alongside Jangarh before pursuing a full-time career in art. His paintings are characterized dense compositions that narrate stories from Gond culture and rural life.
Together, these 14 Gond artists not only celebrate their rich heritage but also breathe new life into their art, ensuring that the legacy of Gond paintings continues to flourish both in India and around the world.
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