Enchanting Journey at the 14th A Hundred Hands' Festival of Handmade

I am thrilled to share my enchanting journey at the 14th A Hundred Hands' Handmade Collective, a celebration of art, culture, and the vibrant spirit of creativity held at the Jaymahal Palace Hotel in Bangalore from November 1 to November 5, 2023.

A Tapestry of Art and Warm Connections

The event commenced with a vibrant crowd, a rich mosaic of art enthusiasts from every corner of India. Amidst this lively atmosphere, I unveiled my exclusive Mithila work on handmade paper and canvas. The intricate details and vibrant colors of this traditional art form captivated the hearts of visitors.

I also showcased my exclusive silk collection, featuring sarees, dupattas, and stoles. Each piece was a blend of tradition and contemporary design, reflecting the diverse heritage of our country.

As the day unfolded, familiar faces from Instagram turned up to explore my creations. It was a joyous reunion with many of my followers and fans. We shared laughter, and stories, and created lasting memories together.

The Fashion Show Extravaganza and Selfie Moments

The excitement escalated with a fashion show curated by renowned designer Prasad Bidapa. A model draped in a saree created by Madhubani Arts India, a brand I collaborate with, graced the runway. The fusion of traditional Madhubani art with contemporary fashion was a sight.

Amidst the hustle and bustle, my Instagram followers and fans took the time to visit my stall. Selfies were snapped, laughter echoed, and the sense of community and shared passion for art was truly heartening.

Mithila Painting Workshop and Artistic Dialogues

I had the pleasure of conducting a Mithila painting workshop. It was a space for artistic dialogues, creative exploration, and the joy of sharing the techniques behind this ancient art form. Witnessing participants immerse themselves in the world of Mithila art was incredibly fulfilling.

Exclusive Silk Elegance and Grateful Reflections

As the event unfolded, the exclusive silk collection continued to captivate visitors. The sarees, dupattas, and stoles became a canvas for artistic expression, a testament to the timeless beauty of handmade silk.

Conclusion:

As I reflect on these five days, I am grateful for the connections, stories, and vibrant tapestry of art woven at the Handmade Collective. Thank you all for being a part of this creative odyssey. I was particularly touched by the heartwarming interactions with my Instagram followers and fans. The selfies, laughter, and shared passion for art created a sense of community and connection that I will cherish forever. Conducting the Mithila painting workshop was a rewarding experience. Witnessing participants learn about and embrace this ancient art form was incredibly fulfilling.

The exclusive silk collection was a testament to the timeless beauty and versatility of handmade silk. I was delighted to see visitors appreciate the intricate details and vibrant colors of each piece.

Overall, the 14th A Hundred Hands' Festival of Handmade was an enchanting journey that celebrated art, culture, and the vibrant spirit of creativity. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this special event and to have shared my creations with the world.

 

 

˘Festival of Handmade 2023 at Hotel Jaymahal Palace, Bangalore

 Ganesha, the harbinger of good luck and success, comes to life on our handmade papers . Join us at the Festival of Handmade to explore these beautiful creations. 

Srishti 2023 by Craft Council of Tamil Nadu in Coimbatore

Hello everyone! Happy to announce that I will be participating in Srishti 2023, organized by the Crafts Council of Tamil Nadu, from September 21 to 23 in Coimbatore.

What's in store? I'll be showcasing some of the most exquisite Mithila work on sarees, dupattas, stoles, and bags. Each piece is a labor of love, crafted with intricate designs and vibrant colors that tell stories of tradition and culture.

Join me at this incredible event to experience the magic of Mithila artistry and take home a piece of our rich heritage. 🌺

Stay tuned for sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes, and more as we count down to Srishti 2023. Can't wait to see you there!  

A Journey Through My Mithila Canvas Creations: Reflecting on the Laguna Art Gallery Exhibition, California

My Experience @Laguna Art Gallery, California

Introduction:

Art has the incredible power to transcend boundaries and connect people across cultures. For me, this sentiment took on a whole new meaning when I had the privilege of showcasing my Mithila art on canvas at the Laguna Art Gallery in Mission Viejo, California. This international exhibition, held throughout December 2022 and January 2023, marked a significant milestone in my artistic journey. From the mesmerizing Tree of Life to the divine depictions of Ganesha, Radha Krishna, and Ardhnareshwar, my masterpieces resonated with visitors and truly made this experience unforgettable.

A Remarkable Opportunity: The opportunity to exhibit my Mithila art at the Laguna Art Gallery was a dream come true. This was not only my first international exhibition but also a chance to share the essence of this ancient art form with a diverse audience. Mithila art, also known as Madhubani art, originates from the Mithila region of India and is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate detailing. Each piece I created was a labor of love, infused with the rich cultural heritage and tradition of Mithila.

A Family Affair: The significance of this exhibition was magnified by the presence of my family. My brother, who resides in Los Angeles, and my parents, traveled to Mission Viejo to support me. Their presence added an emotional layer to the experience, making it all the more meaningful. Sharing this milestone with them was a testament to the unbreakable bonds that family nurtures, and their support fueled my passion even more.

The Heart of the Exhibition: Among the collection displayed, several pieces stood out as true representations of my artistic journey. The "Tree of Life" painting encapsulated the essence of nature's beauty and interconnectedness. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors used in this piece brought the tree to life, reminding viewers of the delicate balance between all living things.

Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu deity known as the remover of obstacles, graced my canvas in a rendition that captured the deity's wisdom and compassion. The Radha Krishna portrayal evoked the divine love between Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha, symbolizing the eternal bond between humans and the divine. Additionally, the depiction of Ardhnareshwar, the half-male, half-female form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, symbolized the harmony and unity of opposites.

A Resounding Response: The exhibition received an overwhelmingly positive response from visitors and art enthusiasts alike. The intricate detailing and vibrant colors of my Mithila creations seemed to captivate everyone who stepped into the gallery. The fusion of traditional art with contemporary canvas displayed the timelessness of Mithila art, resonating with a wide range of individuals, regardless of their cultural backgrounds.

Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins: The Laguna Art Gallery exhibition marked the beginning of a new chapter in my artistic journey. The experience of sharing my Mithila art with an international audience, the support of my family, and the positive response from visitors have invigorated my passion for art. This experience has taught me that art is a universal language that can bridge cultural gaps and bring people together in appreciation of beauty and creativity. As I move forward, I am inspired to continue creating, exploring, and sharing the rich tradition of Mithila art with the world. The memories and lessons from this exhibition will forever hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the transformative power of art.

Unveiling Mithila Art: A Personal Touch to Artisan Collective 2022

Event: Artisan Collective 2022

Venue: Co-Optex grounds, Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai. Date & time: 9th to 15th September 2022.

Among the myriad stalls at the Artisan Collective 2022, one stood as a testament to my own journey of creativity and expression. Nestled amidst the rich tapestry of crafts, my stall proudly showcased the exquisite beauty of Mithila art. The feeling of sharing my exclusive creations made from handmade paper, silk, and cotton was a moment of pride that elevated my participation in the event.

A Canvas of Tradition and Innovation

Mithila art, also known as Madhubani painting, has a legacy that spans centuries. Originating from the Mithila region of India, this vibrant art form is characterized by intricate detailing, bold colors, and a storytelling tradition that resonates with the soul. At the Artisan Collective, I had the privilege of bringing this tradition to life on diverse canvases—handmade paper, lustrous silk, and soft cotton.

From Sarees to Stoles: A Journey in Textiles

The heart of my stall was an array of textiles that bore the labor of love and the magic of Mithila art. Sarees adorned with intricate motifs and vibrant hues caught the eye of every passerby. Each piece was not just a cloth; it was a canvas that narrated stories of cultural heritage and artistic mastery. Stoles and dupattas, delicately painted, added a touch of elegance to everyday wear, while also weaving tales of tradition into modern fashion.

Crafting Beauty, Crafting Stories

As visitors meandered through the stalls, I had the privilege of sharing the story behind each creation. The painstaking hours of handwork, the inspiration drawn from ancient tales, and the innovation that came from within were all stories woven into the fabric of my art. It was heartening to see the appreciation in the eyes of those who understood the effort and passion that went into each stroke of the brush.

A Journey of Artistic Fusion

The fusion of Mithila art with diverse materials allowed me to transcend traditional boundaries. Handmade paper, with its textured surface, added an element of rustic charm to the paintings. Silk brought out the luminous shades in a way that only this luxurious fabric could. Cotton, on the other hand, invited a sense of comfort and everyday beauty. The versatility of the art form was showcased through the very materials it adorned.

A Legacy Carried Forward

The Artisan Collective wasn't just an event for me; it was a stage for me to connect with kindred spirits who appreciated the melding of tradition and innovation. As people admired my creations, I felt a deep sense of pride in being able to contribute to the legacy of Mithila art and, in my own way, carry it forward into the modern world.

A Heartfelt Thank You

My stall at the Artisan Collective wasn't just about showcasing art; it was about sharing a piece of my soul. To all those who stopped by, who listened to the stories, and who appreciated the blend of heritage and creativity—I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your support and encouragement fueled my passion and made this event a memorable milestone in my artistic journey.

As the curtains drew close on the event, I walked away with not just memories, but a renewed determination to continue my artistic pursuits. The Artisan Collective 2022 wasn't just about celebrating crafts; it was a celebration of the human spirit and the magic we create with our hands, hearts, and souls.

Remember, the stories of the past are the threads that weave the future.

#MithilaArtistry #ArtisanCollective #CraftingTradition #ArtisticJourney

#ArtisanCollective #Craftsmanship #CulturalHeritage #ArtistryUnveiled

India Art Festival Bengaluru Edition, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, Bangalore

 I am pleased to invite you to the India Art Festival Bengaluru Edition, where I will be  

Exhibiting my latest Mithila creation. The exhibition will be held from 5 to 8 May 2022 at Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, Bangalore from 11 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. On display will be 3000 artworks by 25 art galleries and 400 artists in 80 booths.  Please do visit. It is free to enter every day.

#indiaartfestival #IAFBengaluru #iaf2022 #artexhibition #bangaloregalleries #bengaluruartists #karnatakachitrakalaparishath

In Conversation with Abdul Kalam, a Kilms Carpet Artist

As a part of A Hundred Hands' Creator Series, I speak to Abdul Kalam, one of the artisans who have made a difference. He takes us through his journey on reviving kilms to walking the streets of Mumbai to understand consumers better. Today Abdul generates employment for more than 500 people in his village in the district of Mirzapur and is inspirational to any artisan who wants to grow his craft business. He is also setting up a Carpet Village to engage with local artists.

Mirzapur-Bhadohi in Uttar Pradesh is a major hub for the weaving of floor coverings of various types. It was once, and continues to be, a major centre for dhurries and kilims, pile and knotted carpets. It is believed that the skill set of the artisans here can be traced back to the Mughal era.