T
here are numerous non-governmental
organisations (NGOs) in India and
abroad who aid Indian artisans in
selling their products, but none have
been able to turn the artisans into
businesses or brands.
This was what Somaiya Kala Vidya (SKV) sought
to change when it stepped in to turn artisans into
businesspeople who would brand their craft and
create a label. Started by Judy Frater, known for her
work in the field of crafts for over 20 years in Kutch,
SKV’s vision and purpose is quite clear. Its mission
is to develop a new approach to design education
based on existing traditions.
The core concept is that tradition is more than
technique; it comprises concept and knowledge as
well. SKV works within traditions, by understanding
and drawing from their salient features. The focus
of education is on acquiring knowledge and skills
that enable artisans to use design effectively in their
work, in order to successfully reach new markets,
while at the same time strengthening traditional
identity.
With its comprehensive one-year course, SKV
works with artisans through a sustained, long-term,
coherent programme. The aim is to work in the local
language and environment, and integrate concepts
and execution in tradition-based crafts. The goals
are to enable artisans significantly improve their
standard of living, and socio-cultural and economic
status; strengthen the vitality and viability of the
crafts in the national and international markets;
to raise the level of education in the crafts sector;
and to provide a successful example of educational
reform.
“SKV also works with artisans in establishing
and articulating what they already know, and
how they traditionally work. In affirming this and
building upon it, we identify the most effective path
to our subsequent goals. SKV has established an
approach of respect, sharing, and mutual teaching
and learning. As much as possible, education is
imparted utilising traditional methods,” states
Frater.
Course Correction
In 2014, SKV launched two new courses and an
outreach programme. Business and Management
for Artisans, a postgraduate course for artisan
design graduates, is the first business course
expressly for artisans. It teaches artisans to
produce collections, as well hold an exhibition in a
major city. Craft traditions for non-artisans aim to
raise awareness and value for traditional arts and
artisans.
SKV enables artisans to increase their
incomes without necessarily increasing the
cost of time and raw materials. Intrinsic to this
goal, SKV understands what was traditionally
created as art. All courses are hands-on. They
are for practicing craftspeople, and focused
on preparing them for the marketplace. The
six courses build upon each other, and work
towards creating a final collection that will be
displayed and evaluated by a jury of market
experts, and available for sale at a public mela.
All courses can avail of SKV’s computer centre,
digital cameras, scanner, printer, and relevant
collections. With the assistance of SKV staff,
students are able to document and archive their
work throughout the year.
The third class of 2017 had ten artisans whose work was evaluated in Gandhidham over a two-day jury assessment in August. Four weavers, three ajrakh printers and
three bandhani craftsmen presented their work for the four awards that were given after the two-day deliberation.
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