Thinking Crafts: An Exhibition in Bengaluru demystifies a new facet of traditional crafts
As traditional crafts make their way to the sophisticated interior markets across the world, regardless of their long and arduous path, organisations like Kaash Foundation explore the wall-based and regional art forms on various frequently used contemporary surfaces like corten, steel and wood.
A month-long residency programme invites master artists Mayur and Tushar Vayeda from Maharashtra Ram Singh Urveti from Madhya Pradesh and Sunita Meena from Rajasthan who present the traditional artworks Warli, Gond and miniatures from their respective states.
The artworks are on display at the Kaash space in Bengaluru until 30th June 2023 from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The exhibition, based on traditional artwork, is published by Tara Books, a Chennai based children’s book publisher.
The artists redefine these typically wall-based and location-specific art forms on various frequently used contemporary surfaces, including Corten Steel, blackboard and wood. These materials come from the earth and carry forth the theme of nature intrinsic to the art form.
The Vayeda brothers use geometric shapes known to Warli art in their piece titled Palghat -The Fertility Goddess; Gond artist Ram Singh Urveti creates the traditional motif of trees in a contemporary sensibility in this piece titled Saraitree.
The event stirs a contentious issue: How do traditional crafts keep up with this wind of change buffeting the design world ?
Each piece holds a unique amalgamation of traditional values and modern design principles. While each piece is distinct and closely aligns with the artist’s sensibilities, it is held together by the common thread that ties these art forms together: an appreciation for nature and natural elements, such as animals and plants.
