About the Artform

Usta art is practised by artists in the district of Bikaner in Rajasthan. The word 'usta' is derived from the Persian word 'ustad', which means master. The art came to India during the Mughal emperor, Akbar's rule. These artists worked on the famous Junagarh Fort in Bikaner. Usta art has various techniques and forms, out of which the Sunehri Munawwati Nakkashi work is the most popular. This involves 24 carat gold embossing on walls, ceilings, wood and marble.

The major manifestations of Usta art in Bikaner can be seen in places such as the Phool Mahal, Chandra Palace, Karan Palace and Anoop Palace. All these are housed inside the famous Junagarh Fort.

About the workshop

The Canvas

Overall Details

In this workshop, you will get an insight into Usta Art, one of India’s most unique artforms. You will also understand how this art form comes to life, the tools used, and above all about the lives of Usta artists. Over the 2-day workshop, you will learn how to craft a perfect Usta frame.

A number of precise steps are involved in making a Usta art piece. Right from the process of preparing a smooth surface for the design to the completion of the art by applying the gold foil, you will be taught everything under expert guidance. This workshop will be a wholesome experience where you will get to practice one of India’s richest artforms.

The colours in the palette

Elements you will learn

Day 1

• Introduction to the process of making an Usta product
• Demonstration of the steps involved by the artist for better understanding
• Explanation of the DIY kit contents
• Briefing on different Usta art techniques
• Designing the frame on the wooden base
• Explaining the coating and embossing process for a 3D effect

Day 2

• Demonstration of the process of applying gold leaf on the wooden base
• Tracing and painting the design
• Varnishing of the product to protect the design
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About the Organization

Virasat is an umbrella body for craft development that aims to uplift languishing Indian craft forms in all possible aspects to create opportunities not only for them but also for their future generations who can safely carry on the legacy. They started their journey with the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru under the name P-TAL: Punjabi Thathera Art Legacy.

Currently, under the ambit of Virasat, there are 3 craft forms - Usta Art of Rajasthan, Gaurahari Stonework of Uttar Pradesh and Pichvai Painting of Nathdwara.

Who is this workshop “just right” for?

• Anyone with an interest to learn ancient artforms of India
• The workshop is beginner friendly
• Anyone who is 8 years and above can join

What your Material kit will contain

Materials at your doorstep

• 1.5 Gold foil
• Cotton
• Asian Paint/Berger company's yellow enamel - 50gm
• Asian Paint clear varnish
• Round brush (number 3/4/5/6) 
• Flat brush for final varnishing (number 10)
• Camel Artists Oil Colors - 2 tubes (Red and Green)
• Embossed wooden piece ( Usta Frame)
• Tracing paper
• Black marker

The scope of creativity

Further prospects and application of what you will be learning

Once you get a knack of practicing Usta Art on a frame, you can apply the skills and techniques on products such as wooden box, jewellery box and keychain. You can give a traditional and elegant look to many things that you use at home.