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Significance of Indian Art

Indian Art encompasses the rich and diverse artistic expressions originating from India, reflecting its cultural heritage, spiritual themes, and idealistic motifs. It has evolved over thousands of years and is characterized by its symbolism and emotional depth rather than mere realism. The art forms include architecture, sculpture, and painting, showcasing influences from various cultural traditions. Renowned scholars, including Ananda Coomaraswamy and S. P. Gupta, have examined these artistic practices, emphasizing their historical, philosophical, and spiritual significance in expressing India's collective identity.1
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Synonyms: Indian culture, Indian creativity, Hindu art

In Dutch: Indiase kunst; In Finnish: Intialainen taide; In Spanish: Arte indio; In German: Indische Kunst

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Indian Art'

Hinduism Books

Indian Art in Hinduism encompasses a rich cultural heritage manifested through diverse artistic expressions over five thousand years, particularly flourishing during the Gupta age, and reflects the philosophies of Brahma, Shaiva, and Vaishnava traditions.

Significance in Vastushastra (architecture):
Vastushastra Books

From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)

(1) A broad term encompassing the diverse artistic expressions in India, especially prominent during the Gupta age, noted for its rich and innovative motifs.[1] (2) The artistic expression and cultural heritage within India, often explored through literature and historical findings.[2] (3) Art that originates from India, which can be found in various regions outside of India.[3]

Vastushastra refers to the ancient Indian science (shastra) of architecture (vastu), dealing with topics such architecture, sculpture, town-building, fort building and various other constructions. Vastu also deals with the philosophy of the architectural relation with the cosmic universe.

The concept of Indian Art in local and regional sources

History Books

Indian Art encompasses a rich tapestry of cultural expressions, emphasizing historical, spiritual, and philosophical significance. It reflects India's unique artistry through diverse forms, including sculpture, painting, and architecture, showcasing deep emotional connections and traditional techniques.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Indian Art was a focus for Dr. Cousins, who spread its message through lectures and lantern slides, and he guided schools of painting.[4] (2) Jones dealt with Indian art, and he convincingly established an affinity between Egyptian and African art on the one hand and Indian art on the other. He also stressed the ancient legal system of the Hindus.[5] (3) A form of expression that is idealistic, mystic, symbolic, and transcendental, emphasizing the spiritual and philosophical aspects of artistic creation.[6] (4) Art that reflects deep insights into the spirit and soul of the culture, often explored in essays and portraiture.[7] (5) A broad subject referred to in the context of A. K. Coomaraswamy's scholarship and understanding of various styles and traditions.[8]