Andhra Pradesh
About this art form
Kalamkari literally means 'pen work' — kalam (pen) and kari (craft). This ancient textile art from Andhra Pradesh involves hand-painting or block-printing on cotton fabric using natural dyes. The Srikalahasti style uses a bamboo or date-palm pen to draw mythological narratives, while the Machilipatnam style uses hand-carved wooden blocks. The fabric undergoes a 23-step process of bleaching, dyeing and fixing to achieve its rich, lasting colours.
The gallery
We're curating Kalamkari pieces from talented makers. Check back soon!
Add your perspective
Every region carries its own variant — different motifs, different techniques, different stories about why we make this. Tell us how Kalamkari lives where you’re from.