GLOBALIZATION AND WARLI TRIBAL ART

Abstract

The globalization has negatively impacted upon the tribal economies, culture and identities. The expansion of the art world under this version of globalization means that freedom of expression among artists is compromised under the pressure to conform to the market in order to succeed financially. The present scenario may change the true reflection of old culture and tradition of the Warli tribe. Because of the commercialization the transformation occurred, and they are venturing into mainstream society for the sake of their art. It has now become the commercial activity of Warli men. Because of the Industrial Revolution and modernization tribal art is a dying activity, now survives only in isolated areas whose inhabitants have a proud tradition of art and making things for themselves. Significance of the art has changed, earlier it used to be a social and religious tradition and ritual for women and everyday life, now it is a source of livelihood and exploration of individual creativity and a symbol of cultural and artistic pride. Introduction of the new modern motif of airplane, car, school building, factory are not necessarily a conscious effort to make art more commercial but rather a reflection of the changing world of the artists and to make painting more consumer- related.