Dokra: How to Create Timeless Art from Scrap Metal

Would you believe it if I told you that figurines moulded in broken metal can create timeless pieces of art? That imperfection of form can be celebrated? Welcome to the world of Dokra art.

You might have read about the image of the “dancing girl” relic, dating back to the Mohenjo-daro civilization, in history? It was made with a non-ferrous metal casting technique that is 4000 years old and is called Dokra. 

Dancing Girl of Harappan Civilization

Evolution of Dokra Art

Age and time have not faded the artistic appeal of Dokra. It remains a testimony as to how our indigenous artisans can adapt and modify their craft to the suit the changing demands of time.

Dhokra

From using bell metal to scrap metal, Dokra craftsmen have adapted with adverse living conditions and limited resources, without letting this art form die out.

The name Dokra has come from the Dhokra Damar tribes of West Bengal and Orissa. This craft was initially practiced by artisans in West Bengal. Today, you can get Dokra art in other Indian states across the country. From West Bengal, Orissa, and Jharkhand, it has spread westwards till Rajasthan, and southwards to Telengana and Kerala.

What Makes Dokra Unique?

Since Dokra is done with broken metal, moulding it and creating works of art from it, is a long-drawn, painstaking process. The Dhokra Damar tribe were brass casters by occupation, so these figurines are generally created from brass.  

Figurines and objects of art are made using the lost-wax casting technique. Thin, slender limbs and imperfect shapes characterize Dokra art. First, the beeswax models are moulded in clay. After the mould dries up, molten metal is poured into it and takes its shape on solidifying. Then the artisan breaks the clay mould, and paints the metal figurine in dull gold or black.

Dokra Art

Popular themes are folk motifs, historical and mythical figures, popular deities, animals and birds. These days, even things of daily use - like bowls, lamps, jewellery etc. are made in Dokra. The beauty of this art is its rustic earthen simplicity and forceful form. This wholly handcrafted art relies on the imagination and skill of its creator. 

Can We Preserve Dokra?

From statuettes and display items, Dokra art has graduated to jewellery items like neckpieces, rings, earrings and nose rings. Wearing a Dokra jewellery item makes a fashion statement, as well as a case for preserving our heritage and handicrafts. Think artsy or avant garde!

Today, Dokra artisans have to deal with certain challenges like expensive raw material, lack of resources, and the meticulous, time-consuming process of creating finished products. The silver lining is the huge appreciation this timeless art has received in the international market.

Art connoisseurs all over the world have appreciated the beauty and simplicity of Dokra art, crafted with such vibrant artistic expression. This genuine interest and encouragement have given Dokra a much-needed shot in the arm, by generating employment and helping preserve our heritage.

Let’s help this art continue to flourish in the coming decades.

Image Source: Amazon, Times of India

 

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