Participating in Dastkar’s "Craft & Design" was a significant milestone in my journey as a Madhubani artist. This was my first-ever exhibition in Delhi and my debut with Dastkar, one of India's most prominent organizations for artisans. The event, held from 10 to 16 January 2025, spanned seven days—the most extended exhibition I have participated in—and was a truly enriching experience.
The Challenges of Winter in Delhi
Delhi’s January winter lived up to its reputation, with temperatures dipping below 10 degrees on most days. Setting up and managing the stall in such chilly weather was no easy feat, and attracting visitors under these conditions was equally challenging. However, the warmth and enthusiasm of the attendees made it worthwhile. I was heartened to see people braving the cold to appreciate and support handmade art. Their genuine interest and encouragement were a testament to the timeless appeal of traditional crafts like Madhubani.
Highlights of the Event
The response to my collection of Madhubani-inspired wearable art, paintings, and handcrafted products exceeded my expectations. Here are some key highlights:
Engaging with Followers: Meeting many Instagram followers in person was incredibly fulfilling. Some traveled long distances to visit the event and see my work firsthand, which touched my heart.
The exhibition helped me connect with many new buyers and art enthusiasts. I was also thrilled to welcome many new followers to my journey. The conversations and exchanges we shared added so much value to the experience.
Direct interactions with visitors provided valuable feedback about my work. Their appreciation and suggestions will guide me in creating new designs and collections.
A Special Thanks to My Sister
This event would not have been the same without the unwavering support of my younger sister, Subhashini, who lives in Delhi. She was my constant companion throughout the exhibition, helping with everything from setting up the stall to interacting with visitors. Her belief in my work and her willingness to brave the cold alongside me made all the difference. Subhashini’s love for handmade art and her dedication to supporting my craft has been a source of immense strength for me.
Reflecting on the Journey
Participating in Dastkar’s "Craft & Design" was a dream come true. The event reaffirmed my belief in the power of traditional art forms and the importance of creating spaces where artisans can connect directly with their audience. It also reminded me of the hard work and perseverance that make such events successful.
Looking back on this experience, I am grateful for everyone who visited my stall, supported my work, and shared encouraging words. Whether you purchased something, followed my journey online, or stopped by to appreciate the art, your presence meant the world to me.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning of many more exciting opportunities to come. I am energized by the connections made and the possibilities that lie ahead. With every new experience, I strive to bring the essence of Madhubani art to a broader audience, keeping its rich tradition alive while giving it a contemporary touch.
Thank you to everyone who made this journey special. Let’s continue celebrating the beauty of handmade art together.
Stay tuned for updates on my following exhibitions and collections. And if you missed the Dastkar event, don’t worry—I’ll share glimpses of the highlights through photos and videos.
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