This degree project was undertaken for the new start up DĒS Studio, Switzerland which aims to introduce and promote Indian craftsmanship in Switzerland through block printed textile products. The idea behind the brand is, “Sustainably designed products can look beautiful too.”
This document is titled “Anpassen” in German meaning to adjust, adapt, customize or suit after its central theme. The project spanned over six months and can be classified broadly into three parts.
First,understanding the intentions of the brand, analysing research and forming a baseline for the company to follow through multiple discussions to help them reach clarity of intent. Being a two way process, I had the opportunity to learn about different cultures and perspectives.
Second, we move from the macro to micro details and of the process. It has made the company robust in its knowledge which will come handy when setting up its own studio.
Third, surface design for two collections - one inspired by traditional Indian prints and one with a modern outlook. Block printing being a craft that has longevity in the very nature, I aimed to equip the brand with a library of tools to utilise throughout its life. One can see the design process for the new brand take shape across the two collections!
My project with DĒS was driven by exploration, experimentation, failure, analysis and success. It has shaped my attitude as a practicing designer be it the quest for quality or seeking vendors in a new city. One has the ability to make decisions that would have exponential effects at the design stage. While understanding this responsibility, the following acted as my north star throughout the project- Sensitivity to Context, Honest Intervention, Learning by Doing, Preservation of Skill, Facilitation of Creative Expression, Responsible Representation of Craft, Long Term Thinking.
