Artisans of Bhuj
Through actively listening and understanding the nuances, challenges, and triumphs of artisanal craft making in the northwestern region of Bhuj, we are dedicated to creating avenues that showcase the exceptional work of weaving, embroidery, and block printing artisans to a broader international audience. As facilitators, our ultimate goal is to bridge the gap and overcome the distance between the audience and the maker through education, meaningful conversations, and heartfelt celebrations. Previous projects have been driven by this intent, utilizing community gatherings and exhibition showcases as mediums to achieve this vision.
The artisans in our community have received design education from Somaiya Kala Vidya, a renowned institution committed to enhancing the skills and nurturing the creativity of artisans. Founded by Judy Frater in 2003, it is one of the pioneering institutions providing artisans with a supportive and enriching environment to develop their design and business skills while receiving essential financial support.
Projects with the Artisans of Bhuj
-
An Ode To Heritage & Craft: Textile Sale and Exhibition, Hong Kong 2021
CONNECTING FOR INDIA hosted a four day textile sale and exhibition at the Asaya, Rosewood Hong Kong. It showcased the work of fourteen master artisans from Kutch, Gujarat, all of whom stem from intergenerational craft traditions. The aim was to provide a platform for the exposure, visibility and celebration of the artisans’ unique works.
-
Innovation through Tradition: Asia Art Archive Annual 2021 Gala
CONNECTING FOR INDIA celebrated artistry and community with Asia Art Archive at their 21st annual gala dinner in Hong Kong. Asia Art Archive is an independent non-profit dedicated to enriching the understanding of the world through the sharing of knowledge of recent art from Asia.
-
Rehnuma, the Guiding Star: Textile Exhibition, New York 2023
Bridging distances in time, space, language and perspectives, Connecting for India presented a collection of unique textiles hand printed and natural dyed by Ajrakh Artisan Designers in the desert of Kutch, India. Program graduates of Somaiya Kala Vidya responded to the theme "Rehnuma", aiming to amplify star motifs in their Ajrakh tradition. Each designer, while using a shared repertoire, brought a unique interpretation to the theme.
