Types of Rogan Art painting (drying oil technique)

Rogan art, a 1550-year-old painting technique, stands as a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of Kutch, Gujarat. The word ‘Rogan‘ originates from the Sanskrit term Rogan Chhap, meaning “work with color.” This intricate art form involves a unique paste made from castor oil and natural pigments, resulting in vibrant, detailed designs applied to fabric. Rogan art is also known as Rogan painting, but its original name is Rogan Chhap, and in English, it is called the “Drying Oil Technique.” I frequently receive emails and letters with questions about Rogan art, such as: What is the origin of Rogan art?. What is Rogan painting?. How is Rogan painting done?. How old is Rogan art?. How do you do Nirmika Rogan Chhap?. How do you do Varnika Rogan Chhap? This article aims to answer all these questions and provide insights into Rogan painting and the different types of Rogan art techniques.

Rogan painting origin and Types of Rogan Art painting

This art is around 1,550 years old and was practiced by Buddha’s disciples in the 5th century. Evidence was found in 2008 during research conducted by UNESCO and Japanese scientists in Bamiyan. The oldest oil painting was discovered in Buddha’s caves in the Hindu Kush valley.

Rogan painting has evolved into three distinct styles (Types of Rogan Art painting)

The first is Rogan Chhap, the second is Nirmika Chhap, and the third is Varnika Chhap. Nowadays, the first type, Rogan Chhap, is popular and practiced by artists in Kutch, Gujarat. The second and third types are done exclusively by artist Ashish Kansara from Madhapar. Ashish Kansara is the only artist who practices all three types of Rogan art.

1. Rogan Chhap

This is the traditional freehand method of creating Rogan art. The process begins with:

• Preparing the Rogan Paste:
  • Castor oil is boiled for 3–4 hours until it thickens.
  • Once cooled, chalk powder and color pigments are mixed into the boiled oil to form the Rogan paste.
• Painting Process:
  • A small amount of paste is picked up with a metal rod and softened by rubbing it on the artist’s palm.
  • The design is created on one side of the fabric, using precise, freehand strokes.
  • After completing one half, the fabric is folded to transfer the design to the other half by pressing gently. This creates a symmetrical pattern.
  • The fabric is unfolded after 2–3 minutes and placed under sunlight to dry.
  • Once dried, intricate dots and lines are added to enhance the design.

2. Nirmika Rogan Chhap

This technique involves a semi-mechanical process resembling block printing:

• Using Brass Molds:
  • The Rogan paste, prepared similarly as above, is filled to brass molds.
  • These molds, carved with various designs, are pressed onto the fabric with the help of a wooden rod.
  • The designs are transferred onto the fabric with precision, creating repetitive patterns.
• Final Steps:
  • The Rogan art printed fabric is then exposed to direct sunlight to ensure the paste dries and sets firmly.

3. Varnika Rogan Chhap

Varnika Rogan Chhap incorporates additional embellishments and colors:

• Single-Color Freehand Rogan Painting:
  • The process mirrors traditional Rogan Chhap but does not involve folding the fabric.
  • Only a single color is used for the base design.
• Adding Decorative Elements:
  • Using a brush, additional colors are painted over the base design.
  • Materials like zari (glitter powder) and abrakh (mica) are sometimes incorporated for a shimmering effect.
  • The fabric is dried in direct sunlight to preserve the design’s vibrancy and texture.