Srishti 2015 offers a glimpse of how traditional fabrics, prints, dyes and weaves can be used in an edgy, funky and fashionable way. Be it the earthy Ajrakhs in deep maroons, greens and blues, the gorgeous jewel tones of tie and dye or the lustrous Gadwal saris...what stands out is how ancient Indian textiles are so very contemporary.
Many designers at the exhibition organised by Crafts Council of Tamil Nadu, are serious researchers. They have done in-depth study about the history of the textile. Kamaldeep who once worked in Gurjari and has travelled extensively conducting classes and workshops said, “I found just one father and son team in Bhuj who are the last of the dyers familiar with a particular process of dyeing,” she says. Old designs have been lovingly studied and copied and propagated in modern stoles, skirts and throws in her stall, Neelgar.
There are experienced designers from NID, young entrepreneurs just making an online presence for themselves such as Banwarey, and exclusive designers who only show in exhibitions and by appointment such as Anavila (with gorgeous linen saris).
A gratifying addition is the presence of designers who cater to big sizes. Not the usual drab, dreary and limited choices the big woman is resigned to expect, but trendy, sophisticated and elegant clothes. Kaveri Lalchand’s K clothing is one of them. None of the embarrassed ‘this-does-not-quite-fit’ moments here. And in case they don’t fit, Kaveri offers to have them made to measure and sent to you. Olayla of Mumbai is the other stall with unusually pretty clothes for big women.
If you buy a sari at Ambi, Sujata Pai will mail you 17 different ways you can tailor your blouse to go with her saris! There are bags in bright colours at a stall called ‘All things Sundar’ and jewellery and gee gaws to have fun with. And one shop has the cutest kids’ clothes.
There are 50 stalls at the exhibition and it is a great way to spend a Sunday. You can refuel at a food stall just outside.
Shrishti 2015 is on till August 24, between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. at Ramakrishna Kalyanamandapam, Avarampalayam.
