Every region of Karnataka has a beautiful and wonderful art heritage. Similarly, Kinnal Village in Koppal District is famous for its beautiful wooden toys.
Known for its handicrafts and doll artworks, the village has been popular since the time of the Vijayanagara Empire. The handicrafts, paintings and wood carvings of Kinnal Village are popular even today. These types of handicrafts are made from light wood and natural colors. Likewise, Anegundi in Koppal Town is famous for banana fibre handicrafts.
Kinnal craft and wooden doll artwork is basically made through the process of wood carvings and painted with organic colours in its original form. The process of making Kinnal craft is very delicate and time consuming. A fine paste is applied to the object created on the wooden base, which is painted last for gloss.
Especaially, Doll artworks have been popular since the time of the Vijayanagara Empire. Typical Kinnal arts are large wooden idols and murals for temples. Of course, there are other influences including regional arts, techniques and customs. These craft makes its way to various exhibitions, festivals, fairs, art galleries, and to the homes of art lovers. The craft survives because Kinnal wall hangings and showpieces are famous.
Kinnal craft is traditionally seen in temple chariot decorations and has found its place in many temples of Karnataka. Idols and decorations for worshiping temple deities, photo frames with intricate carvings and paintings, stools for placing idols, fruit bowls, birds, cradles for children and various toys are famous here. This craft has recently been encouraged by geographic indication tag.
