My time at Kalakaari Haath allowed me to bridge the gap between my passion for textile design, illustration, and storytelling. I realized that the art of surface and pattern design could be enriched by infusing it with narratives. Kalakaari Haath, nestled in the charming alleys of Bandra, Mumbai, provided the perfect platform for this endeavor.
Founded by Sahiba Madan, an architect, in 2012, Kalakaari Haath had humble beginnings but has since grown into a multidisciplinary haven. The studio beautifully combines the vibrant spirit of Indian heritage with intricate craftsmanship. They specialize in home decor, wall features, illustration, and now, soft furnishings.
Working at Kalakaari Haath was a revelation. Their curated products, born from extensive personalized design research tailored to the client's narrative, inspiration, and aesthetics, provided me with invaluable insights. I learned to master the delicate balance between hand painting, digital art, print, embroidery, and the intricate interplay of scale and space.
My initial interactions with Sahiba and Priya, the head designer, were enlightening. They briefed me on the clients and existing products, immersing me in the brand's niche. Handling custom clients for personalized wallpapers and wall art laid a strong foundation. As I gained experience and delved deeper into the brand's processes, we embarked on the second phase of my graduation project – introducing a line of soft furnishings that would complement Kalakaari Haath's existing offerings.
In this endeavor, I aimed to seamlessly integrate my passion for textiles, illustration, and storytelling into a collection that would enhance the studio's reputation for creativity and craftsmanship. This journey at Kalakaari Haath not only shaped my academic project but also enriched my understanding of design as a holistic and narrative-driven art form, an experience I will carry with me throughout my career in the world of design.
