Features: Magazine | Literary Review | Life | Metro Plus | Open Page | Education Plus | Book Review | Business | SciTech | Friday Review | Cinema Plus | Young World | Property Plus | Quest |

Srishti 2008

Photo: S.SIVA SARAVANAN

JEWELLERY AT Srishti

“Professionalism and restraint”, I repeat to myself as I step into Velumaniammal Hall at Avarampalayam, to cover the Tamil Nadu Crafts Council-organised exhibition Srishti ’08. And, that is the last time I say that. I am swept away by excitement, avariciousness and swamping greed once inside.

Every time an exhibition like this comes along, one wonders at the wealth of craftsmanship in India. The textures, the techniques, the dyeing procedures, the designs are just amazing. And, you catch a glimpse of that wonderful diversity everywhere you turn.

Just the colours and designs take your breath away. From the understated indigos and gleaming rusts of the tussars , to the bright reds, greens and yellows of Rajasthani leherias, the delicate kantha and kasuthi embroidery work from Bengal and Karnataka respectively and the you-can-never-go-wrong-with hand painted Madhubani saris, every piece is a marvel.

‘Indigo’ specialises in monga tussar and block prints and they have been in the business for five generations! Next door is gorgeous kaantha and jaamdani work on cotton. Exquisite Daccai saris have come from Bangladesh.

Fabulous dupattas, all vegetable dyed. And, tussar material in incredible hues. Hubli’s Ilkal saris in jewel tones, gossamer Benarasis in whites, gold, reds and other delicious shades, original Kota saris…like good wine, savour them slowly. Then, move over to the jewellery. National Award winner Bindu Mathai displays her exquisite hand-crafted, hand-painted terracotta jewellery. The silver and semi-precious jewellery from Rumi Creations are also beautifully crafted in a range that is traditional enough for the older women and trendy enough to have the young ones drooling. There’s more, but you uncover the treasures for yourself. Srishti is on till 20 July between 10 a.m and 8 p.m. Credit cards are not accepted. But, there is parking.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail