Karnataka   

Showcasing the unique heritage and tradition of Gujarati artisans

— Photo: M.A. Sriram

Intricate designs: Artisans making handicraft items in Mysore on Tuesday.

MYSORE: For the connoisseurs of fine art, it is an opportunity to soak in the richness of the crafts of Gujarat reflective of the rich colours and dexterity of the artisans who hail from that State.

Organised by the Kutch Kalyan Trust, the exhibition of Gujarat handicrafts at The Institution of Engineers on J.L.B. Road here is also a reflection of the unique heritage and traditions of that colourful State.

And on display are handicrafts specific to Kutch, which is in the semi-desert area.

In the absence of flora and fauna, people there are dependent on cottage crafts in order to make a living.

Unfortunately, the district was devastated by the 2001 earthquake and brought much misery to the people who had made the place their home.

Hence, the Kutch Kalyan Trust intervened to rehabilitate the artisans in association with various government and non-governmental agencies, so that they could rebuild their lives.

The trust is implementing the Ambedkar Hastashilpa Vikas Yojana and is engaged in providing raw material, designs, technology and soft skills apart from marketing the products of the artisans.

Apart from organising exhibitions, the trust is also helping the artisans to secure remunerative prices for their products by establishing direct contact with art lovers.

The exhibition features ethnic embroidery work, patchwork, artistic leather bells, textiles, jewellery, tie and dye, “azark” prints, “batik” prints, shawls and other craft items.

Trained artisans in traditional costumes will give a demonstration.

It is not for nothing that Gujarat artisans have affixed their stamp of excellence in the textile market with a blend of traditional and modern designs and art lovers will catch a glimpse of this artistic excellence.

Patch work is another Gujarati art, which is depicted on bedspreads, wall hangings and tablecloths with vibrant shades of red, black, maroon and ochre colours.

The exhibition will be open till March 20 between 10.30 a.m. and 9 p.m.

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