Expert artist Shiv Swami and his savoir faire in the art of miniature painting
At Jamini, we are truly inspired by the magnificent frescoes in the palaces of Rajasthan and the Mughal paintings that adorn India's most beautiful forts and temples. These motifs bear witness to centuries of dialogue between different cultures, religions and artistic movements. They are an invitation to travel and be enchanted, and form an extraordinary heritage to be preserved.
We were honored to welcome the artist Shiv Swami to our boutique in the Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood in Paris.
The art of miniature painting by Shiv Swami
Shiv Swami is a renowned painter who inspires and fascinates us with the precision and expertise of his brush. This talented artist comes from a family of traditional painters from Bikaner, a town in Rajasthan. He began his apprenticeship with his father Dev Kishan Swami and his grandfather F.R Swami. He then joined the Bikaner School of Painting, where he honed his technique before establishing himself as a pioneer of contemporary Indian miniature art.
Miniature of Shiv Swami - Rajasthan Palace
Shiv's style is strongly influenced by Mughal and Rajasthani traditions, and his paintings can only be fully appreciated through a magnifying glass! The meticulousness of his work enabled him to hold the Guinness record for the world's smallest painting for two consecutive years (2002 and 2003).
His talent has enabled him to organize exhibitions all over the world, notably in India, Italy and France.
Art works by Shiv Swami
To achieve such precision, Shiv uses brushes made from squirrel hair enabling him to produce very fine lines, which give his works impressive detail.
As for the paints he uses, he makes these himself. The artist confided to us that the process can take up to several months of work to achieve the desired result. The paints are made of pigments extracted from natural components.
Miniature of Shiv Swami
He uses minerals such as Lapis Lazuli, malachite and azurite, plants such as saffron, precious stones and silver and gold leaves as well as in powder form.
We were bowled over by Shiv's know-how in extracting pigments :
He begins by placing a natural component in a mortar and uses a pestle to grind it. He then adds tree resin, which acts as a natural glue and adds strength to the color and allows it to fasten onto the surface he paints on.
Artisanal paintings
This handcrafted paint is then placed in conch shells for a better grip during painting sessions, which can last over a month depending on the artwork to be completed!
The artist also confided to us that the most meticulous work can only be done for 5 to 10 minutes at a stretch before he allows his eyes to rest.
Miniature on a postcard
Shiv Swami's passion, commitment and innovative spirit contributes to the preservation of a traditional savoir-faire that inspires and motivates us. More inspirations on our Pinterest account.