JOIN USPadmavathi K V, a homemaker, creates beautiful pieces of art from different types of paper and silk cocoon. The items that she has made include miniature dolls, flowers, plants etc. These pieces, which are made after carefully rolling paper, can bring a smile to any face.
A resident of Teachers’ Colony, Koramangala, she was always interested in handicraft and gives the entire credit for pursuing it to her mother. “It was my mother who pushed me to learn and make different kinds of handicraft. During my school vacations, I would start learning a particular kind of craft. By the time my holidays ended, I would have mastered the craft. It was my mother’s dream that I pursue my hobby all through my life. She had recognised my passion and pushed me to follow my heart and hone my skills,” she says.
Vibrant, colourful and intricate, these pieces have a beautiful finish. The most incredible part of her story is that she is self-taught and believes in ‘doing it yourself’. “Once, at a handicraft exhibition, I saw a flower vase which was made after rolling newspapers. The artist, who had made it, gave me a few quick tips. I came back home and tried to make them. Soon, I was able to make vases, fruits bowls, pen, newspaper stands etc,” she adds.
Similarly, she learnt the art of quilling (an art form that involves the use of strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create decorative designs) on the internet. “I saw a couple of beautiful pieces made by a professional on the internet and soon I started reading more about it. Now, I have made greeting cards, exhibits, photo frames, dolls and many other things with paper. Learning new skills and applying them gives me immense joy. In fact, I have also started helping children with their school handicraft projects,” she adds.
She has not only mastered the art of making things with paper, she has also made some exquisite pieces with silk cocoon. “Silk cocoon is a waste product, and silk
producers often sell it to artists. Although, I had read about the art of making things with cocoon long time ago, I learnt it only a while back. A scientist from the Silk Board taught me how to make it. Soon after, I started making artificial plants, flowers etc with it. Once when she came home, I showed her the things that I had made and she was full of praises. I feel that everything can be put to use if we think creatively,” she explains.
Artificial bonsai plant is one of her signature pieces.
These are made with cotton balls wrapped in wires. The finishing touches are done with pebbles and leaves. Padmavathi spends a lot of time making these intricate objects and adds that she loves learning new things. “If I see something interesting, I make it a point to learn it. There is no age for learning. Whether it is a young artist or an older professional, I have no qualms about learning anything from anybody. The idea is to add to my existing knowledge,” she notes.
“My family has been extremely supportive and my children have encouraged me to go ahead and follow my passion. I devote a lot of my time and effort towards my hobby. My children have often gifted greeting cards and other pieces, made by me to their friends,” she says.
“When they were younger, I often made return gifts for their friends. Many of my neighbours have seen the items and have shown a keen interest to learn. My family realises that a lot of patience and dedication is required to add finesse to each of these items. I love gifting these things to my neighbours and friends. I now I feel that I have fulfilled my mother’s dream,” she expresses.