3.2 Reading Works of Art - Std 9 - Kumarbharati

Author: Abha Bhagwat

Genre: Informative / Art Review

Textbook: English Kumarbharati – Std X

Board: Maharashtra State Board

English Summary

The lesson introduces two important forms of art — the abstract paintings of Sayed Haider Raza and the traditional Gond art. Raza’s works are known for their simple geometric shapes, striking colour combinations, and spiritual depth. His art is abstract, created from his inner thoughts rather than direct observation, and the ‘bindu’ became central to his work. He received many honours, including all three Padma awards.Gond art, practiced by the Gond tribal people, uses natural colours prepared from soil, plants, and other resources. Traditionally, it decorated the walls of houses and was passed down through generations. Its designs use dots, lines, and bright colours to create lively images. The lesson shows how both forms of art express creativity, preserve culture, and communicate deep thoughts without words.

Theme / Central Idea

The lesson highlights how different forms of art, whether modern abstract or traditional folk, express the artist’s inner vision and preserve cultural heritage. It conveys that art can communicate complex thoughts and emotions more powerfully than words.

Character Sketches

Sayed Haider Raza

• Renowned Indian painter of abstract art

• Used simple geometric shapes and vibrant colours

• Created paintings from inner thoughts, not direct copies of life

• Introduced ‘bindu’ as a central element of his works

• Received Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan

  
  

Gond Artists (Collective)

• Tribal artists from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha

• Use natural materials for colours

• Create decorative, lively designs with dots, lines, and patterns

• Preserve tradition through generations

• Reflect daily life, nature, and community culture in their work

  
  

Word Meanings

Grammar Questions

1. Identify the infinitive in the sentence: "Raza decided to settle in France."

   • Answer: to settle

   • Explanation: ‘To settle’ is the base form of the verb with ‘to’, showing purpose.

     
     

2. Change to passive voice: "People used to draw pictures on earthen walls."

   • Answer: Pictures used to be drawn on earthen walls by people.

   • Explanation: The object ‘pictures’ becomes the subject, and the verb changes to passive form.

     
     

3. Use a modal to rewrite: "Artists preserve traditions." (Express possibility)

   • Answer: Artists can preserve traditions.

   • Explanation: The modal ‘can’ expresses possibility or ability.

     
     

4. Change the tense: "Raza finds his paintings through study of Indian art." (Change to past tense)

   • Answer: Raza found his paintings through study of Indian art.

   • Explanation: The present tense verb ‘finds’ is changed to past ‘found’.

     
     

5. Frame a Wh-question: "The roots of folk art probably lie in women’s daily chores." (Ask about ‘where’)

   • Answer: Where do the roots of folk art probably lie?

   • Explanation: The question word ‘where’ is placed at the start, keeping correct word order.

   
   

Personal Response Questions

1. Why do you think abstract art is difficult for some people to understand?Abstract art is difficult for some people to understand because it does not show direct images from reality. The viewer has to interpret shapes, colours, and designs based on personal feelings. Without a clear subject, people may feel confused about its meaning. The beauty of abstract art lies in personal interpretation. This makes it challenging but also unique.

   
   

2. What do you learn from the traditional method of making Gond art colours?

   The traditional method of making Gond art colours teaches respect for nature and resourcefulness. Artists use natural materials like soil, leaves, and flowers to create beautiful shades. This process reduces waste and is eco-friendly. It also connects the artist closely to the environment. Such practices preserve cultural traditions in a sustainable way.

3. Why should cultural art forms be preserved?

   Cultural art forms should be preserved because they carry the history and identity of a community. They teach future generations about traditions and values. Preserving them keeps alive unique skills and creative expressions. It also promotes diversity in the world of art. Such preservation enriches both local and global culture.

   
   

True or False

1. Raza’s paintings are lifelike copies of real scenes.

   – False

   
   

2. Gond art uses bright colours and patterns.

   – True

   
   

3. The ‘bindu’ became the central point in Raza’s paintings.

   – True

   
   

Probable Board Questions

1. Why are Raza’s paintings considered unique?

   Raza’s paintings are considered unique because they are abstract and come from his inner experiences. They use simple shapes, vibrant colours, and deep spiritual meaning. The ‘bindu’ became a special symbol in his work. This combination of artistic skill and personal vision makes his paintings stand out.

   
   

2. How is Gond art connected to the daily life of the community?

   Gond art is connected to daily life because it reflects traditions, stories, and nature observed by the community. Women originally decorated their homes with these patterns during chores. The art uses materials available in the surroundings. This makes it both a creative and cultural expression rooted in daily activities.

   
   

3. How does the lesson show that art can communicate without words?

   The lesson shows that art can communicate without words by describing how both Raza’s and Gond art express feelings and ideas visually. Shapes, colours, and designs convey emotions and messages directly to the viewer. These works inspire thoughts and emotions without any spoken or written explanation. This silent communication is one of art’s greatest powers.

   
   

Reflection Paragraph

The lesson Reading Works of Art is memorable because it presents two very different yet equally expressive art forms. Raza’s modern abstract paintings reflect deep personal and spiritual thoughts, while Gond art preserves community traditions and creativity. Both styles show that art can communicate meaningfully without words. The description of how Gond artists prepare colours naturally is inspiring. The lesson also teaches respect for both modern innovation and traditional heritage. It encourages the preservation of cultural identity through art. This makes the lesson not only informative but also deeply inspiring.

English Workshop

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