Papier Mache Birds

This papier-mâché bird hanging is made by rural artists from the state of Odisha. It is inspired by their classic style of painting and art, which is known as the Pattachitra. One very distinct thing about this tradition is the belief of the artist that the moment you paint the eyes, the spirit of whatever you're trying to create enters the art form. So even in the paintings, the eyes are done in the end because the artist does not want to disrespect anything being represented, especially when it a God or Goddess.

What is characteristic to the Odisha style of papier-mâché? Besides using sandpaper to get the required finish, saw dust is mixed to locally produce glue to get the desired texture. Finally, the painting is done using colours made from powdered seashells and rocks.