Manasa C had always admired Tanjore paintings, but it was after seeing Vibha’s Balaji painting that she decided to finally enroll. When the Lord Ganesha studio course was announced, she made sure she joined the next batch.
This marked Manasa’s first-ever Tanjore painting, completed over a 6.5-week studio course at Tanjore Collective.
Starting Her First Tanjore Painting Journey
Manasa joined the Lord Ganesha – 6.5 Weeks Studio Course at the Tanjore Collective studio in Basavanagudi, Bangalore. As a beginner, she appreciated that the course started from the very basics.
“Vibha shared all the details, right from purchasing the materials to the step-by-step procedure. This really helped us learn and made the process feel easy.”
The initial sessions focused on understanding materials, canvas preparation, and learning how Tanjore paintings are built layer by layer.
Learning the Embossing Process
The first major technical step Manasa worked on was embossing. This stage involves creating raised designs using gesso, which forms the base for gold work.
“First came the embossing part. Vibha explained everything patiently and showed us how to build the layers properly.”
With constant guidance in the studio, Manasa slowly developed confidence in handling this crucial stage of the painting.
Applying Gold Foil – Her Favourite Stage
Once the embossing was complete, the class moved on to applying 24-karat gold foil, one of the most defining features of Tanjore painting.
“Next came my favourite part — applying the gold foil. She taught us how to do even intricate parts in an easier way.”
Students were guided on how to place the gold neatly, avoid tearing, and ensure a clean finish, even in detailed areas around the jewellery and ornaments.
Painting Techniques and Colour Choices
After the gold work, Manasa began the painting stage. Vibha demonstrated brush handling, stroke control, and detailing techniques, especially for the deity’s form.
“When it came to painting, I must say Vibha has magic in her hands. Her strokes are so perfect.”
Students were given the freedom to choose their own colours while staying within the traditional framework.
“We were allowed to choose our colours, and I must say our batch ended up with very vibrant and colourful Ganesha paintings.”
This balance of structure and creative freedom helped Manasa enjoy the painting process fully.
Support from the Teaching Team
Throughout the course, Manasa received continuous support from the instructors.
“Vibha, Spurthy, and Yashu stood by our side at every step to correct and perfect our paintings.”
Corrections were done patiently, and students were encouraged to redo sections when needed, helping them improve steadily over the weeks.
Learning in a Studio Environment
Manasa particularly enjoyed attending the offline studio classes, where she could interact with other students.
“I loved the offline classes as I got to meet many people with similar interests.”
The studio setting allowed students to observe each other’s work, learn together, and build a shared learning experience.
Completing Her First Tanjore Painting
By the end of 6.5 weeks, Manasa completed her first Tanjore painting of Lord Ganesha, a piece that reflected both traditional technique and her personal colour choices.
“The whole journey was filled with enthusiasm and joy, and I was always eager to learn more.”
She received her Certificate of Completion and left the course feeling confident and grateful.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Manasa concludes her journey with a simple note of gratitude:
“A big, wholehearted thanks to Vibha and the entire team. I will truly miss everyone.”
Her experience shows how structured guidance, hands-on studio learning, and continuous support can help beginners successfully complete a traditional Tanjore painting in just a few weeks.
