Ensures fair living wage for producers
Discloses the community being impacted
Reduces the environmental impact
Focusses on women producers
Created using handcrafted methods
Reduces/Reuses/
Recycles resources
Recycles resources
Made out of responsible materials
Avoids use of chemicals or toxic materials
Purpose
Kerala's rice straw painting is a rare and intricate art form rooted in centuries-old traditions of transforming agricultural byproducts into striking visual expressions. Evolving through generations of skilled artisans, this craft uses natural materials like rice straw, tree-sap glue, and handmade paper to create detailed, textured imagery without the use of synthetic colors. Each artwork is painstakingly assembled by cutting and layering rice straw in varying natural shades, with the subtle tones achieved through expert blending. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, this eco-friendly practice reflects a deep respect for nature and resourcefulness. Today, with only a few master artisans left who know the traditional techniques, rice straw painting stands as a fragile yet vital piece of Kerala’s cultural heritage—one that urgently calls for recognition and revival.
People
In Kollam, a quiet revival is unfolding as a handful of master artisans pass down the endangered tradition of rice straw painting to a new generation of women artisans from rural communities. Once limited to simple souvenirs, the craft is now transforming into intricate, expressive works of art. Through a structured cooperative, these women are not only preserving a rare heritage but also building sustainable livelihoods and gaining financial independence. Under the mentorship of seasoned masters, they are honing their skills and reimagining the possibilities of rice straw painting—blending tradition with innovation. What was once a fading legacy is now a growing movement of empowerment, creativity, and cultural preservation.
Planet
Every element in rice straw painting is sustainably sourced, making it a powerful expression of eco-conscious craftsmanship. This traditional art form repurposes rice straw—an agricultural byproduct that would otherwise be discarded—into intricate, textured compositions. Handmade paper, natural leaves, and tree-sap glue further enhance its organic integrity, eliminating the use of synthetic chemicals or plastics. Unlike mass-produced art, which often relies on artificial dyes and industrial processes that harm the environment, rice straw paintings are entirely biodegradable and leave no ecological footprint. Rooted in principles of the circular economy, this craft transforms nature’s discards into lasting works of beauty. It not only preserves artistic heritage but also champions a sustainable way of creating—proving that creativity, tradition, and environmental responsibility can flourish together.
