16 January to 2 February, 2014
Venue: Kisaan Haat, Andheria Modh

Dastkar, the NGO that has been promoting Indian crafts traditions held its first “Design Fair” at the Kisaan Haat. Their objective was to showcase traditional handmade designs and crafts in contemporary form so that they are relevant to urban lifestyles and customs.

The ware on display covered textiles, regional embroideries, clothes, ornaments, accessories, home decorative objects, light furniture and so on.

As a break from Dastkar’s traditional colourful styles, in parity with the concept, the place was decorated in a subtle colour combination – black, white and yellow ochre.

The products, being customised for modern living, catered not only to the “arty” buyers but to a wider consumer base. They were functional, yet pretty with the additional advantage of mostly being made with natural material.

Given that rediscovery is most essential for any traditional skill to survive, Dastkar’s initiative is worth all applause. Not only did it establish that traditional craft forms can also cater to today’s requirements, it also, to a certain extent, broke the monotony of the visual form of traditional arts.

Glimpses from the Design Fair:

Creations by designer Paulami Saha @ Dastkar Design Fair 2014

Contemporary stuff in leather designed by Iditri @ Dastkar Design Fair 2014

Tribal Dance from Orissa @ Dastkar Design Fair 2014