ANIMAL ART: Artisans from Orissa making decorative coir animal pieces in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. — Photo: K.R. Deepak

VISAKHAPATNAM : Colour remained predominant at the rustic Orissa art and handicrafts exhibition organised at the Maharashtra Mandal by voluntary organisation Arkashree from Orissa on Wednesday. Open till December 28 between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m., the exhibition showcases a range of authentic handicraft items such as colourful patchwork wall hangings, appliqué work umbrellas, bags, pouches, lanterns and much more. Eye-catching decorative pieces such as teakwood elephants, Ganesh idols, sandstone, soft stone and black stone carvings and pretty coir animal pieces were also displayed.

Straw and cane based items such as candle and pen stands, hats and innovative dining items are available at the event. A specialty of Orissa handicrafts is their extensive use of shells in hangings, jewellery and other items. Sambalpuri sarees and dress materials in earthy colours and palm leaf engraved paintings complete the display.

An interesting item that had everyone curious was the flexible brass fish piece. "We exported a number of these curios to U.K this year," said coordinator of Arkashree, Suresh Swain.

Twenty-two artisans from around 10 districts in Orissa are participating in the event that is supported by 20 self-help groups.

Arkashree is also involved in other training and development activities to promote local artisans. "Apart from conducting exhibitions, artisans will also conduct demonstrations in appliqué, stone work, palm leaf engraving and making some shell products," he said.

Kalasrusti exhibition

Exhibitions are in full swing in the city with rural handlooms and handicrafts organisation Kalasrusti also organising an All India Crafts Bazaar - 2006' at the Kalasrusti handicrafts and handlooms emporium in Mathsyadarshini complex from Thursday to December 31. Fifty crafts persons from around India will participate in this event showcasing a range of items from different parts of the country.

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