Bringing different artisans together

Ethnic Weaves and Crafts Bazaar, was organised by Hast Karigar Society, at the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat recently. This event exhibited an exclusive and exquisite range of handicraft and ethnic weaves. The theme of this exhibition-cum-sale was ‘Redefining Our Past to Recreate Our Future’.

 The handicraft and handloom products on display ranged from Rs 30 to Rs 20 thousand. Most of the products were environment friendly and safe for use. The theme emphasised on redefining the traditional skills of the artisans and to recreate a market that showcased Indian tradition and heritage.

Sudha Murthy, chairperson of Infosys Foundation, who inaugurated the event said, “I saw different forms of art here and all are beautiful. Each state is like a country, with its own tradition and culture. There's a lot of talent.”

Some of the unique craft items which were on display were Pattachitra from West Bengal and Orissa, miniature paintings from Rajasthan, Gond tribal painting on paper and cloth, Madhubani painting from Bihar, Kauna grass craft from Manipur and Orissa, tribal and thread jewellery from Karnataka and Rajasthan. The other highlights include Manipuri black pottery, Ajrak and copper bell from Gujarat, leather puppet and Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, applique from Rajasthan and Orissa etc.

One of the stall keepers from West Bengal Devashish Dutta, who was selling saris, dress materials, stoles and blouse pieces made of tussar silk, said, “The saris take about 6-7 months to make and the stoles take around a month. The designs depict certain stories and incidents from Ramayana and Mahabharata.”

Sindhe Sreeremulu from Anantpur district in Andhra Pradesh had a stall of hand-made leather puppet craft, wall-hangings, lamp-covers and even wall clocks. This is one of the traditional crafts being practised by Arc Marata community. One of the customers, Shilpa said, “It's a wonderful experience to see so many forms of traditional Indian art under one roof. I just loved the jewellery and the dress materials. I even bought a dress material made in Kanchipuram from here.”

Needless to say, the exhibition truly showcased Indian art from every nook and cranny of the country.