About
About Balaji Art Works
Sixth-generation Tirukkanur Papier Mâché from Villianur, Puducherry — devotion shaped in pulp, mould, and colour.
Papier Mâché — French for “mashed paper” — is a delicate decorative art cherished in Pondicherry. Tirukkanur Papier Mâché is known for initial design conceptualisation, precise plotting on the mould, profound detailing, elaborate decoration, and vivid colour. The craft received Geographical Indication status from the Government of India in 2010 (G.I. 202).
Balaji Art Works, led by Master Craftsman A. Sekar, continues this tradition from Kanuvapet, Villianur. From clay modelling and plaster moulds to paper-pulp dough, joining, sandpaper finishing, and oil painting, every figure is shaped by hand — sacred deities, festival dolls, and commissioned sculptures that travel from Puducherry to collectors across the world.
Mission: preserve and advance Tirukkanur papier mâché through masterful making, training of younger artisans, and works that carry devotion into homes, temples, museums, and diasporic festivals such as Navaratri Golu.
Mission
To craft artworks that elevate everyday architecture into lasting memory.
Vision
A world where spaces speak with the quiet confidence of fine art.
Timeline
Milestones along the way
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1957
Birth of A. Sekar
Born 10 May1957 into a traditional toy-makers’ family in Puducherry.
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1971
Family legacy recognised
Grandfather Vaithiyalingabakthar honoured in Chennai — continuing a distinguished craft lineage.
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1987
State Award
Receives Puducherry State Award for excellence in craft.
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1991
Teaching abroad
Training and demonstration for youngsters and teachers across various places in the U.S.
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1994
Reunion workshops
Trains more than 3,000 school and college students over 90 days in Reunion, France.
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2010
GI status for the craft
Tirukkanur Papier Mâché conferred Geographical Indication (G.I. 202) by the Government of India.
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2011
National Award
Conferred the National Award for handicraft excellence.
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2017
Frankfurt demonstration
Live craft demonstration at Ambiente Messe, Frankfurt.
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2021
ICON documentary & workshops
Subject of the film ICON by Dr. Kala Shreen; leads Design & Technical Development programmes.