Revival of Gond Art in Contemporary Fashion

Abstract

This paper examines the potential for interpreting Gond art in contemporary fashion through a proposed linen dress decorated with acrylic fabric paint and outline-focused hand embroidery. Gond painting is associated with the cultural traditions of Gond communities in central India and is widely recognised for its narrative subjects, nature-related imagery, rhythmic lines, dots, and repeated marks. The study considers how selected visual characteristics can be translated into a wearable design while maintaining respect for the cultural context from which the art emerges. The research is planned as a practice-based design study supported by secondary literature, visual analysis, motif development, material trials, garment planning, and documentation of the making process. The proposed design uses linen as the base fabric, acrylic fabric paint as the painted medium, and hand embroidery to reinforce selected outlines. The study will investigate design placement, visual balance, legibility of motifs, comfort, and practical considerations such as paint handling, fabric response, and care instructions. These are proposed areas of evaluation, not completed findings. Published research on Gond art, its changing materials and contexts, and its role in contemporary cultural communication informs the literature review. The dissertation distinguishes published evidence from the student’s design decisions and any future observations. Since the project is at the planning stage, no experimental results or claims of successful performance are reported as facts. The expected contribution is a documented design framework for exploring a culturally informed Gond-inspired garment and for identifying questions that should be tested during prototype development.