Art & Handicrafts in Kerala

Kerala is a land of artistic people. It is almost like the natives of Kerala have art in their blood. The variety of arts and crafts in Kerala is very lively and emphasize a lot on the use of colors. You will find intricate designs and vibrant details on Kerala art and craft. In fact, handicrafts in Kerala are pretty much popular and there is a whole festival dedicated just to handicrafts.

Kerala is renowned for its carvings in metal and wood like rosewood and sandalwood, metal jewellery, granite statues, coconut shell and coir products, snake boat model and other collectibles. A very famous product of handicraft is the wooden face of a Kathakali dancer that is available easily on any roadside shop. It comes in a variety of colors, sizes and shapes. Another famous and popular item for an art collector is figures and paintings of elephants. Elephants are as common as coconut trees in Kerala! These adorable creatures have caught the eye of each and every artist. Statues and paintings of elephants are available all over Kerala.

The musical instruments for traditional dance forms are also a form of art. These instruments are handmade and often are carved out of a single piece of wood. Most of these handicrafts are sold overseas due to popular demand. Among those exported are items like refined and polished coconut ashtrays, lamp stands, vases, coir carpets and floor mats, purses and cane furniture. Apart from these, local craftsmen also make beautiful ornamented headgears for elephants.