Art and Craft of Nagaland are vibrant and possess a great variety. Nagas, the tribal inhabitants of Nagaland, have always lived in harmony with their environment and their ancient tradition of art and craft reflects the same. The tribal society of the state is blessed with a number of adept artisans and craftsmen who have contributed in this field since time immemorial. Articles having utilitarian, aesthetic and ritualistic value are created by these craftsmen which exhibits exquisite beauty.
Artefacts of Nagaland
The magnificent village gates, traditional Naga huts, also known as Morungs, and house posts are some of the testaments of their brilliant craftsmanship. Other beautiful specimens of the Art and Craft of Nagaland include wicker drinking vessels, storage baskets and containers. These fine crafts are carved out by the artisans by utilizing natural products such as barks, wood, dyes etc. Clothes of vivid colours are also a distinguishing artefact of this region.
Weaving in Nagaland
Weaving is a popular activity among the Naga women. Jackets, bags and colourful shawls are commonly weaved by a number of craftsmen. For weaving, usually loin loom is used, however fly shuttle loom has also gained popularity over years. Unique colour schemes and patterns are used by different tribes of the state and the motifs generally comprises of tribal folklore. Dyes were previously extracted from plants, roots and barks. The clothes are embellished with cowrie shells, beads and goat hair. These woven clothes have gained great popularity in national as well as international market.
Basketry in Nagaland
Basketry is also famous in Nagaland which is usually carried out by the tribal women. These are composed of fine strips of bamboo and cane. Baskets of different villages have distinguished beauty. Khonoma village is popular for baskets of fine and elaborate designs. Khiamngan weavers of Tuensang District weave baskets having delicate designs and lace like appearances. Bamboo and canes are also used to make mats and headgears. Local markets as well as markets outside the state are immensely benefited by these crafts.
Pottery in Nagaland
Pottery is also prevalent among the Nagas. The pots are known for their simplicity as emphasis was laid on their utility rather their decoration. Ungma and Tseminyu villages are especially known for this art.
Wood Carving in Nagaland
Woodcarving by Nagas is the testament of their brilliant craftsmanship. Simple implements like hand drill, local dao and chisel are used to prepare beautiful specimens for utilitarian as well as decorative purposes. Shangnyu village of Mon district is the most famous and skilled in this art. Wooden panels with intricate artistic carvings are highly popular. Diezephe Craft village of Dimapur district hosts skilled craftsmen who generate their income mainly from this craftwork.
Metal Work of Nagaland
Metal work of the state includes articles made of brass, iron and tin. Various ornaments and utilitarian items are prepared using this art. Simple tools are used by the local blacksmiths for making exquisite items.
Apart from these, beadwork and jewellery are also greatly cherished artefacts of Nagaland. Tribal folks of this region have great fascination towards art and craft and this clearly reflects in the artefacts they prepare. This age old tradition prevails among the Naga tribes since ancient past and the abundant availability of raw materials have further promoted this art.