Fashionable Early Modern Adaptation of Indian Embroideries and its Contemporary Significance

Questions arise followed by a gasp of astonishment when one confronts a gigantic wall-hanging comprising European design minutely embroidered in Indian chain stitch so as to simulate printed design. This encounter with a late seventeenth century piece of textile craft at the Calico museum is what led me to investigate European adaptation of traditional Indian … Continue reading Fashionable Early Modern Adaptation of Indian Embroideries and its Contemporary Significance

Artist Statement: Archana Kumari

Archana Kumari is a folk artist from Bihar. At a young age her talent was recognised by visitors from the Asia Society and she received the extraordinary opportunity to travel to New York. Now having learnt English and acquired confidence she works as an independent artist in Delhi, commissioning extra work from women in her … Continue reading Artist Statement: Archana Kumari

Fashion design with a conscience

Western designers working with traditional artisans in India creating products for a consumer market with an ethical consciousness. How can the designers contribute to the artisan communities in a sustainable way? Bhukhu is an appliqué embroiderer from the small village of Marharbat, near Barmer in Rajasthan, India. She is sixty-four years old. Bhukhu learnt the … Continue reading Fashion design with a conscience

Chikankari–How to protect the fragile thread that connects generations

Minna Loft, a graduate from jewellery at Monash University, reflects on her recent experience learning about Indian crafts in northern India India never ceases to amaze me, continually impressive and unpredictable. The generosity that I have experienced in India is breathtaking. I recently headed back there for my own research and intrigue. With previous experience … Continue reading Chikankari–How to protect the fragile thread that connects generations

The making of Sangam

A few months ago, I found out about the Australia India Design Platform. This platform is meant to act as a catalyst for creative partnership between the two countries. I was contacted to give a name and identity to this three year program on craft and design. After much thought and consultation, we settled on … Continue reading The making of Sangam