The Hindu : New Delhi News : Showcasing the weaves of Kutch

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Wednesday, Jan 10, 2007
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New Delhi

Showcasing the weaves of Kutch

Madhur Tankha

Five-day show begins today

NEW DELHI: They are weavers who have held on to the identity of their craft. And yet they have subtly responded to the challenges they face, particularly the new economic boom that is sweeping the country. Now the weavers of Kutch are all set to showcase their creativity at a five-day show at Chinmaya Mission Hall on 89 Lodhi Road in the Capital beginning Wednesday.

Titled "Kachchhism", the show will display the weaves of Kutch in exquisite fabric and product form, marking a turning point in the development and practice of the craft. Besides entrepreneurs who have achieved international fame, the exhibition will also see the participation of weavers who are trying to understand the new markets. And then there are those for whom weaving is the sole livelihood, who need to make their first forays into the larger world.

Crafts from various parts of the country have changed shape and form to suit the demands of the market. On the other hand, crafts of Kutch while fulfilling the needs of daily utility and aesthetic expression were guarded very strongly as a mark of identity by various ethnic and tribal communities of this arid region.

"Kachchism" will host the work of ten weaver units that will not only showcase their craft but also open up to the possibility of forming trade associations. Also on display will be fabrics, apparels, home textiles and accessories in wool and cotton, besides blends and acrylics. Ranging from classic naturals and understated vegetable dyes to warm earthy hues and bandhani, the kaleidoscopic colours give a totally new dimension to the artistic weave.

Coordinating the "Kachchhism" show are Meera Goradia and Pankaj Shah from Khamir and bringing the event to Delhi is Laila Tyabji, chairperson of Dastkar.

Khamir -- meaning "intrinsic pride" -- has worked on new directions with the weavers of Kutch, while Dastkar aims at improving the economic status of craft persons thereby promoting the survival of traditional crafts.

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