Rogan Art

In essence, Rogan art facilitates “dialogue” between the hands of the artisan. While the rod "pre-manipulates"; the strand of color in the air to create intended motifs before it hits the fabric; the fingers under the fabric help shape the final form into the fabric. Complex, multi-layered designs are created with a free, whimsical hand; the canvas is always dark and waiting.

Yet, the colours are always vibrant, with a life of their own. Yellow, white, red, blue and green are the favoured hues, the Tree of Life, symbolizing personal development, uniqueness and identity, most often finds its way into the design.

Hailing from Persia, Rogan art made its way to Gujarat over 400 years ago. Many years and sublime designs and imagery later, its survival of solely in the hands of the Khatris, a family determined to preserve and pass on every uneven line, every abstract wrinkle, every aspect of the much beloved craft. To ensure that Rogan art continues to flourish unabated, incorporating the best of the new world, whilst preserving and retaining the old.

A freehand to preserve and perfect the old, one might say.