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Visit the site for traditional handicrafts from the region (textiles, metal work, wood carvings, etc) Example: | |||
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Andra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation, Ltd
Surya's Garden: Working with Banjara Women in India
“Surya’s Garden” is a trust founded by Laxmi Naik, a Lambhani from Hampi in Karnataka. There, the Lambhani embroideresses mean to revive ancient skills and to produce meticulous work. Each piece is unique. The quality of embroidery demonstrates the vitality of the rediscovered motifs.
A part of the proceeds is being used to build a community workshop, a medical center for the embroideresses and a kinder garden. This will provide Lambhani women with financial freedom, a sense of solidarity as well as an assertion of their ancestral identity.
Email: laxmijan@suryasgarden.org
Visit their site for more information on the history and culture of the Banjara women.Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Emboidery by the Kutchi in India
In a remote part of India, one woman has established a movement to revive a local form of artistic expression, hand embroidery, creating a sustainable means of income. The region of Kutch once had a long and rich tradition of embroidery which made a welcome contrast to the regions austere landscape. But, from the 1960s onwards, synthetic materials and machine work pushed this craft close to extinction.
"An idea at the intersection of conservation, education, enterprise and empowerment; an idea that could light a fire, especially in the hearts of the younger generation.
Acutely aware of its cultural, social and spiritual value, Chanda Shroff is preserving this unique heritage while promoting an exquisite art form and empowering women in highly conservative societies.
Demonstration of Kutch embroidery, an ancient form of Indian embroidery with its roots from the region of Kutch,Gujarat,India. Taught at Mridula's School of Embroidery http://www.mridulas.com
The women in a tiny village in Kutch augment their earning with the help of Judy by creating theri traditional embroidery with a certain gusto.
State of the Arts visits with Alpa Thakkar, an Indian skilled at traditional Gujarati Kutchi embroidery. Alpa is by profession a jeweler, however, in her off time, she enjoys making the colorful embroidered clothing worn by Indian women for Navrati and other festivals. (Excerpt from the State of the Arts special, Culture in Context).
Find out more about traditional artists in New Jersey at http://www.cultureincontext.org or visit the State of the Arts website: http://www.njn.net/artsculture/
Ccreener for Through The Eye of a Needle: Stories from an Indian Desert distributed by Contemporary Arts Media http://www.artfilms.com.au.
The film is the story of a unique group of craftswomen. Follow their journey as they return to creating the world-class embroidery that made their ancestors famous. The incredible stories of the women from the Kutch Mahila Vikas Sangathan co-operative (KMVS) are recorded here through video, song, laughter, and stitch.
History here is worn as generations of knowledge are passed down through embroidered designs. Long a valuable item of trade, the embroideries also provide a common ground for women to meet and bring their stories to the world. Experience the amazing landscape of the Kutch desert on Indias western border, the remarkable diversity of the communities who live here, and the breathtaking colours of their textiles.
Born from a need to document the evanescent world of craft the film is part of a 4 film series of compelling and insightful documentaries.
Working mainly with India, but also with several other areas, the films document the production of embroidered, block printed, hand-woven, and naturally dyed textiles. Focusing on areas where excellence is still the tradition, these documentaries are deeply concerned with the viability of craft and the lives of the artisans.
Banjara Videos from India
Dharma Boutique founder Adam Bauer shows where he gets his beautiful vintage textiles from the Banjara ladies on a side street in Delhi, India. Produced by Sara Karl www.dharmaboutique.com
Gypsies of the Thar, sinuous amongst the sand dunes - a fantastically vibrant Gatlif
The Banjara, a group of traditional music, consisting of eight excellent musicians and dancers, all hail from the Thar desert. Heirs of ... Tout » an ancient culture, today, under the direction of Kamal Kant, himself a musician and a dancer who has been living in France for over a decade, they are the ambassadors of the great Banjara tradition which stands at the cross roads of classical North Indian music and the skilful art of Persia. The lively rhythms, bordering frenzy, which accompany the whirling dancers in their famous costumes of a thousand, scintillating mirrors, are an invitation to a journey rich in colour and emotion, following in the footsteps of the gypsies of Rajasthan.
Véritable road-movie, "Sur la route des miroirs" nous fait suivre les pérégrinations de Sara et de Kassa, deux femmes banjara parties vendre leurs plus beaux vêtements et bijoux au marché de Goa, en Inde.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Uzbek Alive
UzbekAlive was created by a small group of enthusiasts as a channel for promotion of work of Uzbek artists and designers. After several years of contemplating, in 2002 we finally put our efforts together and launched this website. In years of running UzbekAlive we learnt several things, the major one of them being – we do have something unique and beautiful to offer to the world. In fact, we have become known as a place to shop for unique gifts.
Everything on this website was made in Uzbekistan with tremendous amount of care. We work directly with artists, who live in Uzbekistan and are the most talented artists and designers in their fields. The money generated through sales on UzbekAlive is used to support these artists and designers who otherwise would be struggling making a living doing what they love in a today's unstable economy of Uzbekistan, where people are more concerned about meeting basic needs, not about keeping Uzbek art Alive.
Our ikats were hand dyed and handloom woven in Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan using a centuries old technique of ikat weaving. The technique requires a precision in tying and wrapping silk threads before dying in order to create a desired pattern.
In addition to scarves and fabrics, we also feature works of lacquer ornamental jewelry and decorative boxes, hair barrettes and pins.
Our sales operations are now based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where we already have the products listed on this website. We carry a limited number of units of each product at a time and, as everything that is hand made, the patterns and designs will be very similar, but never absolutely identical.
Everything here is fair-traded – there was no child labor involved in the production of any item we sell; artists would not have sold us anything unless we paid a fair price.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
SRI Threads: Vintage Japanese and Indian Textiles

Sri is a textile gallery specializing in antique Japanese folk textiles, highlighting the indigo-dyed cotton utilitarian fabrics and boro--or patched and mended--textiles of old Japan. We also carry a wonderful selection of textiles from India.
We are located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, New York and we are open by appointment.
Please visit our BLOG, Sri Threads, for our commentary on the world of Japanese folk textiles and for photographs of our New York home.
If you would like to visit us, please do not hesitate to e mail or call us; we would love to meet you.
As well, if you are searching for a specific type of textile not listed on our site, feel free to contact us with your request. Our showroom inventory is larger and more diverse than we can list on this site, and we would be happy to speak to you about your interest and how we might help you find the textile you are looking for.
For a glimpse of individual pieces from our collection of specialized texiles, visit out gallery at asianart.com
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Faith Ringgold: Art Prints
Faith Ringgold paved the way for many art quilters with her story quilts. See my article in Fiber Focus for more background information on her path.
These are art prints of her work available on Amazon. Please click on the links below the images. The prints are available in many different sizes and price points.
Book: Faith Ringgold, Art Quilter
Click on the links below the images to go to Amazon:
Video: Faith Ringgold, Art Quilter
Faith Ringgold paved the way for many art quilters with her story quilts. See my article in Fiber Focus for more background information on her path.
The first two videos are quickies. The third is about an hour and 45 minutes long. It's a slide presentation where Faith talks about her work and at the end there is a question and answer period. Worth watching or listening to if you are interested in her work.
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Sunday, February 15, 2009
Video: Talavera Clay from Mexico
Excellent footage of talavera production. Shows clay thrown on a wheel, molds, presses, and decoration. No commentary, just hyper Irish music. (Huh?)
View into and tour of a Talavera workshop in Puebla. Narrated in Spanish.
Novica: "Golden Harvest" Talavera from Mexico
NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, offers thousands of limited edition and one-of-a-kind gifts, jewelry, and home decor treasures handmade by master artists and artisans throughout the world. Golden flowers adorn these delightful candleholders by Jorge Quevedo. Crafted by hand, relief motifs add to their fascination, while the deep cobalt is inspired by Mexico's traditional Talavera pottery.
Artisan Info:
"Hello, my name is Jorge Quevedo. The region where I was born and raised is renowned for its majolica ceramics. Although my family worked in other fields, I was fascinated by ceramics and, while still in high school, I took a job in a pottery workshop. There I learned the techniques and processes. After several years, I wanted to set up my own ceramics studio, and I saved up until I was finally able. It started out small, but little by little, my workshop grew. We always found lead to be a problem. After researching and experimenting, I came to master the technique using white clay instead of those commonly used in the region. I also work with lead-free glazes so as to meet the expectations of today's shoppers. The process begins by mixing the powdered clay with water to achieve a smooth, uniform paste. We shape it in molds or on the potter's wheel and let it dry thoroughly. We then smooth the fragile pieces and fire them at 800C [1,472F] for six hours to become cajete (bisque or biscuit). "
Novica: Talavera Pottery
Product Features:
- Handmade by Alonso Luis
- Ships from Mexico within 7 days
- Free of lead and toxins
- Hand wash only
- Microwave safe
- Product Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 12 inches ; 3.5 pounds
Product Features:
- Handmade by Castillo Family
- Ships from Mexico within 7 days
- Watertight
- Product Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 14 inches ; 4.6 pounds
A rustic work infused with modern sentiment, this vase by the Castillo Family flourishes with verdant charm. The design reflects the beauty of Guanajuato's Talavera ceramics, each detail rendered with botanical simplicity. Makes a noteworthy statement in an elegant decor. The work of the Castillo Family represents part of the cultural and historical values of the state of Guanajuato, where they elaborate their treasured craft. Each piece is a laborious affair between the artisan and carefully selected clay, ensuring quality rather than quantity. Once the desired shape is achieved, the surface is prepared in a mineral glaze and fired in a brick kiln. Patience and artistic virtue results in a captivating rendition of Talavera ceramics. Watertight.
Artisan Info:
The Castillo family's artistry has been featured in periodicals ranging from Sunset magazine to The Cincinnati Inquirer. The Castillo family has many years of experience hand-crafting Talavera-style ceramics in Guanajuato, Mexico. Their workshop seeks to rescue this traditional, world-renowned ceramic style. Although true Talavera ceramics are made only in the city of Puebla, the techniques are also practiced by artisans in Guanajuato.
Novica: Bougarabou Drum, 'Collar'
NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, offers thousands of limited edition and one-of-a-kind gifts, jewelry, and home decor treasures handmade by master artists and artisans throughout the world.
The name of this drum, Bougarabou, is onomatopoeia for the captivating rhythm it produces. Artisans of Bomukasa Limited present the instrument, its resonant body crafted from the natural luxury of tweneboa wood. A simple collar on the base provides visual contrast, as well as enhancing the overall tone. The drum features a goatskin-striking surface, held firm by iron rod rings wrapped in cotton cloth to prevent rusting. Nylon ropes securely fasten the rings, the sturdy design enhancing the overall visual allure. Lends a rustic musical accent to any setting. Finished in mansion polish.
Artisan Info:
The drums of Louis K. Botchway and Bomukasa have been featured in Pool Spa Living magazine. Bomukasa began as a sole proprietorship, started in 1980 by Louis Kojo Botchway. The name Bomukasa came into being in 1982, when Louis Kojo Botchway brought some artistic wood carvers and performing artists together to work and to train young people interested in the field. In the Akan language, Bomukasa literally means "together to discuss," its musical implication suggesting the discussion of sound. According to Botchway, the beginning was not easy. A talented artist, he completed a course in wood carving in 1979, and also studied graphic arts.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Modern Artisans: Slate Coaster Set - "Kanji"
Please note: Due to the unpredictable nature of slate, the slate coloring may vary slightly from coaster to coaster, creating a wonderful subtle array of natural hues.
Individual Coaster Size : 3.75" x 3.75"; Total Weight of Set = 2.75 lbs.
Price: $29.99
Modern Artisans: Buddha Cast Stone Garden Plaque
Product Size : 8.75" high x 6.0" wide x 1.5" deep; Weight = approx 5 lbs
Price: $52.99
Modern Artisans: Harmony & Tranquility Elliptical Raku Vase
The modern raku technique arises from ancient Japanese methods of exposing clay to rapid low-fire temperature changes. Raku pottery is admired for the range of colors generated by the oxidation when fired - glimmering shades of burnt orange, copper, indigo and maroon.
This raku vase features a striking elliptical shape, perfect for highlighting dried floral arrangements. The kanji symbols for Harmony and Tranquility are depicted on either side, providing a paramount accent on the vase and a marvelous endorsement in any home.
Handcrafted in Kansas, USA.
Please note: One side of the vase features the Harmony Symbol, while the other side features the Tranquility Symbol. Vase is recommended for dried or silk flowers only. Overall Vase Size : 10.0" tall x 9.0" wide x 3-3/8" deep
Opening (rim) size : 5" x 2"
Price: $79.99
Modern Artisans: Verdi Green Cattails Birdbath
An elegant birdbath to compliment any garden! The cattail pattern is fabricated from heavy 1/4" galvanized steel and welded into a tripod pedestal, allowing the flurry of cattails to be appreciated from all angles. The 38" birdbath pedestal includes your choice of a shallow frosted glass bowl or a deep polished copper bowl. Although it is a true attention-getter as a birdbath, the pedestal and bowl are equally at home indoors or on a patio filled with fruit, candy or floating candles. Handcrafted in North Carolina.
Overall Product Size : 38" tall x 19" wide; Weight = approx 26 lbs. |
Price: $349.99
Modern Artisans: Scrolling Vine Iron Wall Sculpture
Price: $109.99
Modern Artisans: Recycled Vinyl Records into Trays and Bowls
Heralded for the fun, creative use of recycled materials, Jeff’s vinyl creations have been featured in numerous museum exhibits and magazines throughout the world. Trays sold separately.
Available in two genres:
* Rock Essentials (artists such as The Police, Eric Clapton, YES, Santana)
* Crooners (artists such as Nat King Cole, Sinatra and Dean Martin).
Price: $24.99
Designer Jeff Davis has put a new spin on recycling by rescuing discarded records and creating them into fascinating works of functional art. Yes, these unbelievable bowls are made from actual 12" vintage vinyl records! Perfect for fruit, dry snacks, or upbeat contemporary decoration, these sturdy record bowls have the original label intact and protected with a clear mylar seal.
Heralded for the creative use of recycled materials, Jeff’s vinyl creations have been featured in numerous museum exhibits and magazines throughout the world. Bowls sold separately. Made in the USA.
Choose from the following genres:
* Rock Essentials (Essential artists such as The Eagles, Rolling Stones, Elton John, Janis Joplin, Beach Boys, The Byrds, Bob Segar, YES, Allman Brothers, Elvis, Neil Young, KISS, etc.)
* Country (Artists such as Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, Alabama, Waylon Jennings and Emmy Lou Harris)
* 70's/80's Pop (Artists such as Wham, Donna Summer, Thompson Twins, Barry White, Madonna, Simple Minds, Eurythmics, Adam & the Ants, Rick James, Culture Club and the Go-Go's)
* Divas (Artists such as Barbara Streisand, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Judy Garland, Cher and Bette Midler)
* Crooners (Artists such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Johnny Mathis, Tom Jones and Tony Bennett)
* Jazz (Artists such as Count Basie, Horace Silver Quintet, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, Herbie Hancock, Cannonball Adderly, Sarah Vaughn and Stan Getz)
Price: $24.99
Modern Artisans: Bird of Paradise Copper Fountain
Enjoy the soothing sound of cascading water with a tropical touch! A tier of four copper leaves catch and release the flowing water before reaching the bottom basin, creating a tranquil melody of trickles. Large enameled leaves and bird of paradise blossoms add visual excitement. Handcrafted entirely of copper in Arizona, each fountain is fully assembled and includes a submerged 12 volt quiet pump - just fill with water and plug in! $279.99
- Copper leaves can be gently bent to achieve the perfect look or to slightly redirect the flow of water.
- Due to the handcrafted nature of this product, slight variations in the arrangement of leaves will occur.





