The Indigenous Art Collection
Bhuri Bai (b. 1955)

Bhuri Bai is a prominent Indian tribal artist who has gained recognition for her vibrant and distinctive artwork that reflects the traditional art of the Bhil community. Bhil art is characterized by intricate geometric patterns, vibrant colors, and depictions of daily life, nature, and mythological themes. Bhuri Bai's work often features traditional Bhil motifs, and she employs a unique and skillful approach to her paintings.

This jungle scene shows several oversized birds (one with three chicks nestled on its back), a deer suckling its fawn, two toddy tappers (climbing the tree, left) and possibly a goat herder resting at the foot of the tree (facing the goat, bottom left corner). This seemingly idyllic portrayal marks social transitions, hinting at migration and movement. Two men, one with a walking staff and his belongings rolled into a cloth and the other with a suitcase on his head, make their way on the road (foreground). Just behind the tree (left), a bus arrives, with a couple of passengers waiting to get on. Between the tree and the oversized birds is a large airplane, also suggesting potential migration. 

Bhuri Bai - Story of a Jungle

2006
Acrylic on canvas, 70” x 93”

Gifted to Philadelphia Museum of Art (2022)