Keywords Transformation/Metamorphosis Movement Nature Rigidity |
The brief for my project was to create a collection of woven saris, using traditional Jamdani techniques, and a set of stoles, using tasar as the main yarn.
I started with explorations of material size and colour and studying the various techniques I could use to weave a new story out of the traditional tale of Jamdani. The identification of efficient and skilled weavers, who would be able to meet the demands of quality and timelines for the international market, was a key task. Various layouts, which were inspired yet traditional, were explored. I spent the latter part of the project in Bhagalpur, Bihar, to closely understand the use of tasar yarn, its variety and properties. With only eight shafts, I had to come up with different weaves, using different techniques such as double-cloth and extra weft and extra warp. Natural colours and shades were used in accordance with the contemporary concepts and layouts for stoles.
My two collections were a Jamdani Collection in Phulia, West Bengal, which had five different concepts and over 20 sari products, and a collection of stoles in Bhagalpur.
This experience has taught me the importance of the design process, decision-making and punctuality. The project strengthened my belief that regional language cannot be a barrier to communicating designs and helped me understand trends in export houses and their way of functioning. |