Crafts in India have always been a fascinating asset, with each piece of art speaking about its originality and tradition. The traditional crafts of states, which were once used for storytelling, are now regarded as ingenious possessions. The evolution of Indian crafts has endured and flourished notable, expressing inner creativity and royalty. With different states having their own charismatic artistry, TIHG puts forth 4 amazing crafts of the country which can amaze and render one curious!
1. NEST by Arpit Agarwal
“NEST by Arpit Agarwal is a brand of notebooks/ journals, jewellery, lifestyle and home decor products etc. inspired by the symbols, culture and crafts of the picturesque and unexplored paradise of North-Eastern India: 8 vividly different states from one another. The brand’s effort is to capture and explore the immensely rich heritage of north-east, its diverse wildlife, flora, fauna and its colorful people. The digital medium allows us to explore a lot and reach a much wider audience. Although as a brand we have developed collections inspired by traditional art and craft, with this pandemic it becomes our responsibility to help the craft sector to bounce back. So traditionally manufactured home decor products and accessories will be the way forward.”- Arpit Agarwal, Founder, NEST by Arpit Agarwal
2. Kriti Handmade
“Folkloric Design Studio is committed to the development of innovative ideas based on our Indian Arts and its traditions. Based on Salem in Tamil Nadu, India, we create home décor products that are hand-painted and hand-carved by our skilled artisans with inspiration from the rawness that we find in the folk arts across India. We work on different concepts like the confluence of kollam art with other traditional arts of India, a wide range of Pallanguzhi game
boards, and also pallanguzhi as a wall décor with miniatures paintings and kollam on it. Reviving and revisiting old traditions is at the heart of décor these days. And we are constantly working towards providing decor that holds the incredible charms of our culture.”- Pabitha & Prakash, Founders, Kriti Handmade
3. Soma Folk Art
“Run by a self-taught professional Madhubani artist based out of Warwick, this art is inspired by day to day lives, mythological and folk tales. Soma Folk Art involves mixing traditional Madhubani designs with some modern elements. Drawing the repetitive patterns is therapeutic and there was a strong attraction in exploring the art form. Later it became a medium for me to tell my stories and to gradually find my own unique style. Mediums used are usually experimental with paint on watercolour paper with ink and gouache. Those who love mixing neutral shades with bright colours, geometric patterns with traditional motifs, contemporary styles with old-fashioned designs,Madhubani is just for them. Future calls for a solo exhibition and to teach traditional Madhubani art while keeping it relevant to modern world and lifestyle.”- Soma Chakraborty Debnath, Founder, Soma Folk Art
4. Neerja International
“Nature and traditional geometrical patterns have always been an inspiration for Neerja Blue Pottery. ‘Hand-made’ is the word which truly speaks to the originality of each piece. ‘Blue Pottery’ is tedious and many experts come together to make one piece a success, taking 30-60 days to complete each. For 2020 our theme will be “Vibrant colours and designs” in order to remind people of the happy times we should look forward to. We want to create utility based masterpieces for future generations to remember this craft by. The brand supports hundreds of Blue Pottery craftsmen and works jointly to create a self-reliant atmosphere in the villages where this craft is still preserved. The craft has rich heritage and culture and I have been making my collection of unusual pieces for the past 40 years, so the generations to follow see the uniqueness in it.”- Mrs. Leela Bordia, Founder, Neerja International
Leave a Reply