The Patachitra artists have formed a cluster of their own named Chitrataru in 2011. The cluster works not only for the growth of the art form but an all round development of their village
Pingla is a flourishing hub of more than 300 artists where they have formed a cluster named Chitrataru in 2011. The leading artists of the block form the governing body of the cluster. The objective of its formation has been a focus on marketing for better opportunities of the local artists and also a development of the village as a whole. The cluster also focuses on the training of the next generation in this art form. Further, the cluster also organizes the annual Patachitra festival- POT Maya in Pingla since 2010. At present, there are 21 members in the cluster. In March 2018, Chitrataru applied for the GI tag and have successfully received it. Currently, an initiative is being taken to develop their marketing plan along with the GI tag.
Montu Chitrakar is an eminent Patachitra artist from Pingla block of Paschim Medinipur district. He started painting at the age of 10 and went on to become an accomplished artist by his early youth and won the district award for his skills. He has participated in events across India and also been to Australia and Indonesia, where he was awarded for his painting skills.
Rahim Chitrakar started painting when he was 10. Now aged 40, he prefers to paint in the traditional Bangla style of Patachitra painting. Rahim has travelled to Japan & Bangladesh. He is the winner of State Award and the Rabindra Bharati University Award.
Amit Chitrakar started pursuing the tradition of his forefather from a very young age. He is a painter as well as the President of the artists’ society Chitrataru. He has been to different fairs and festivals in Bengal to promote Patachitra.
Get in touch with Chitrataru for any doubts or more information.
