DIY Handmade Madhubani Style Tree of Life Painting Wall Art Decor

Madhubani is an ancient art and highly revered art form of India. The origin can be traced to Mithila region in India, currently in the state of Bihar.

The art is known to have been practiced from the days of the divine marriage of Prabhu Sri Rama and Devi Sita. It is believed that King Janaka brought together all artists of the region to paint and decorate the occasion.

Women of Mithila region have been practicing this art form to decorate the walls and floors of their home during family special occasions, festivals and auspicious celebrations. Today, the motifs, elements, themes and concept of the painting has been transferred onto the canvas and other handicraft items for commercial purpose. It has been a means of income for many women.

Government has given much recognition to this art form and has awarded many tritonal artists who have been working hard to keep the art alive.

One popular name in the world of Madhubani Art is Bharati Dayal.

Many amateurs attempt to recreate Bharati Dayal's work. Her Madhubani paintings are inspirational and highly motivating. Even a first timer with paints and brushes would want to make Bharati Dayal's Madhubani Art works.

It is a great joy to see your own handmade and signed canvas painting decorating your living room or bedroom wall.

Here is my humble attempt at drawing and painting the famous Tree of Life by Barati Dayal. Being a self taught artist, I attempt to learn by observing the details about how Madhubani drawings are done and how intricately the patterns are made on large blank portions of the drawings. It is all about your own idea and creativity.

Few pointers to note before beginning. (as per my observation)

Major elements in the painting occupy the largest pace.
The important elements are drawn with double lines.
There is no space left unused in the entire painting.
Heavily intricate patterns and designs are an important highlight in this art form.
Bright natural colors are used in this art form.
No blending, no shading, and no mixing of colors for Madhubani paintings.
The motif figures need not be perfect. Imperfect lines and spacing makes it the perfect folk art of India.
The important fact to consider is, do not keep any element simple or plain.

Step-by-step making of Madhubani Tree of Life painting on canvas.

Step 1 - Using a light hand, with the help of a pencil draw a female figure on the canvas, with face upwards and eye-sight towards the height of the tree or sky.

Step 2 - The face will have large eyes and elongated arched eyebrow.

Step 3 - Intricate floral jewel like designs will cover the entire forehead. The floral pattern is unique.

Step 4 - The hair bun and ear jewelry in the human face figure is to be given equal importance for planning the delicate and elaborate designs.

Step 5 - From the shoulder level of the face figure, draw cruvy lines that goes upwards. This forms the trunk of the trees.

Step 6 - Twists and twirls to show the branches of the tree.

Step 7 - Draw circles randomly and fill up the branches and space for floral details.

Step 8 - Use natural colors for coloring. Use brown for tree trunk and branches. Use white acrylic paint for line details on the tree trunk and branches.