Over the years, I have gained a lot of experience and knowledge about the artisanal sector. Some artisans are willing to grow their craft and increase their business, while others are happy to be where they are. I find that in every craft, there are a few who excel in their work..true masters. Artisans who understand their craft history and current markets. India is home to the largest sector of live artisanal crafts in the world. I have seen really beautiful pieces and some not that beautiful. I find that our artisans are not only skilled, they are extremely bright and can understand an idea quickly. So as a designer, all my work with artisans has been collaborative and the results have been great. My first curatorial project was for an NGO called Ode to Earth, who were opening a store in Ranthambore. I was responsible for selecting all the merchandise from different artisans for that store.

In 2018, my friends Sheela and Rajeev Lunkad asked me to be a part of a curatorial team that was going to set up a bazaar show casing the best of the best of Indian crafts and folk art. Their company Direct Create ( www.directcreate.com) was spearheading this project.

I was part of a curatorial team along with a group of eminent designers, artists and architects to put together the bazaar for Mr. Mukesh and Nita Ambani’s daughter’s wedding. Our job was to identify the correct merchandise from artisans across the country. My role was to ensure that all the products fitted in cohesively. The bazaar was designed to look like how it may have been during the Mughal eras. The team was amazing, and I learnt a lot about team management and other crafts besides textiles. It was a highly enriching experience for me.

Photo Credits: Direct Create