The universe has thrived on geometricity silently since time immemorial. We humans are made of it. We live with it and live by it. Probably that is why we get drawn to its symmetry and asymmetry even in design, fashion, art and craft. However, in contemporary clothing, we lend this concept to mostly prints and silhouettes.
Read MoreAfter many years of studying craft traditions of Kutch, and then many years working with hand embroidery artisans, I decided to begin a design education program for artisans. I felt that a new direction was needed. Crafts were appreciated enough to commercialize them, and yet the process used was to bring professional designers to "intervene."
Read MoreMy move to Stockholm was an eye-opening step in my life and my professional journey. Even though I have had a keen interest in writing and interior design since my teenage years, the Scandinavian lifestyle made me experience design in a new way and question our relation to local crafts. In the Nordic countries, the design industry is recognised as a cultural value, and given a more conscious approach.
Read MoreThe Gaddini arrives at the wedding, moving her head slowly, so as to not disturb the splendid, golden nose-ring. Her mahindi-covered hand holds in place the red and gold chiffon, draped over her head. Her heavily pleated, floral skirt sweeps across the floor. Wrapped around, and around, her waist is a dora, a sheep-wool rope, the most distinguishing feature of the attire of the Gaddis.
Read MoreAn artisanal and ethical brand from Sydney, hopes to bridge the gap between artisanal work and fashion by combining cultural forms of silhouette and woven textile in single garments. Badaam was founded by creative director Priyanka Kaul in 2017. Badaam's thoughtful philosophy ensures ethical production of handwoven and natural fabrics in healthy work environments.
Read MoreMuch of the contemporary aesthetic as seen in our curated objects comes from the packaging of the objects rather than changing the designs that the artisans create. I’ve chosen materials and neutral color schemes that complement the works, not detract from them.
Read MoreOur passion for Indigo dyeing led us to communities in Sindh, Pakistan where this tradition can be traced back to the ancient Indus civilization, more than 5000 years ago. Today, Indigo dyeing is still practiced along the banks of the River Indus. Our explorations started with traditional Ajrak textile patterning methods.
Read MoreGujarat, our land, our Inspiration, our Muse! Vraj:bhoomi’s roots lie in Gujarat, a prosperous state with high spirits, dynamic society and cheerful celebrations, a state with its true colors of rich heritage and cultural traditions. There is so much that the state has to offer in terms of inspiration
Read MoreRazel giggles as she pushes open another door of a wooden, stilted house. Behind the closed doors of Falam, one of the main towns in Myanmar’s remote Chin State, are dark rooms housing traditional back-strap weaving looms.
Read MoreIndia is an incredible place of diversity culturally, geographically, and artistically in terms of textiles. India has always been rich in resources for textiles and produced stunning results in this field globally for centuries now. India’s extensive history in techniques and the quality of hand done work that can be achieved are real strengths.
Read MoreTraditional wool processing techniques of ladakh are weaving and felting. Knitting was introduced by the Moravian(missionary) housewives in 1885. The ease of processing(portability, tools) and applications(socks, caps, sweaters etc.) made it popular in the region.
Read MoreThe modernization of our country has depleted a lot of traditional technology and know-how. Yet, in far flung areas, in hidden worlds, we can find some remnants of traditional crafts. One such craft is weaving textiles from wool of Gaddi sheep in Himalayan region of Dhauladhar range.
Read MoreThe term ‘boro,’ for ‘ragged’ refers to traditional Japanese textiles patched together by hand from scraps of cloth. They are stunning every time you look at them: a sea of blue cloth interjected with patterned patches of cotton – discarded in a forgotten century – worn around the edges, and dotted with stitches as if mended in haste. A result of need rather than want, boros are imprecise, the design of the whole, unspecific but thoroughly compelling.
Read MoreOne of my earliest memories growing up in a Tamilian household, was being in awe of the antique brass vessels adorning the kitchen that were used only used during festive occasions. ‘Barnis’ being used to store ‘ kanni manga’ achhar and the simple matka for water.
Read MoreI come from a region known for its minimal design. I grew up with my grandmother Thora knitting – thick, itchy wool. She was immensely talented, creating pieces that are reminiscent of Missoni, without ever having heard of Missoni, which she sold at local markets. I remember the days in her studio, spools of rainbow colours and designs coming to life before my eyes.
Read MoreFor those lost in the cultural oblivion, what pulls us into exploring our artistic realms beyond our craft? The India Craft Project is an initiative based on a few questions such as these, especially exploring the traditional creative communities of the country. Focused on 'People Currency' and the importance of creative interventions & collaboration.
Read MoreLast September, we saw the collaboration of one of London’s oldest luxury retailer, Thomas Goode & Co., with Indian couturier Sabyasachi Mukherjee to create a new wedding trousseau line consisting of elegant ceramics.
The former, founded in 1827, offers an unrivalled section of china, silver and glassware from the world’s finest brands, while the latter is an established cultural and creative icon and India’s most sought after bridal designer
Read MoreIndia’s rich culture is easily exhibited in its majestic forts, incredible food, and royal palaces but perhaps most delightfully, in its jewellery and textile traditions. Rajasthani dress is particularly elaborate and colourful, beautifully decorated with mirror and traditional printwork.
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