Mumbai witnessed an extraordinary celebration of craftsmanship as 27 artisan designers from Somaiya Kala Vidya (SKV) showcased their year-long efforts in design through the highly anticipated exhibition, Kala Sangam. Hailing from Kutch and Bagalkote, these artisans represented seven distinct textile traditions, each steeped in heritage yet brought to life through contemporary design. This marked the first-ever presentation of such an exhibit in Mumbai, providing an unparalleled glimpse into the world of traditional crafts redefined through SKV’s innovative education.
Each piece on display was a narrative of self-expression, cultural identity, and creativity, illustrating the artisans’ growth under the guidance of Somaiya Kala Vidya’s unique one-year design program. The name Kala Sangam – embodying a “confluence” of diverse crafts and traditions – was chosen collectively by the students after a three-hour brainstorming session, a testament to SKV’s collaborative spirit and dedication to consensus-driven decision-making.
The exhibition, hosted by Design Craft, drew a supportive and engaged crowd, thanks largely to Smt. Amrita Somaiya, whose commitment to empowering artisans has been instrumental in shaping SKV’s vision. According to Mr Nishit , Director of Somaiya Kala Vidya, the change of venue from Ahmedabad to Mumbai was a strategic success, with the artisans achieving sales nearly threefold compared to last year. The Mumbai clientele, recognized for their genuine interest in artisanal crafts, embraced the techniques and stories behind each creation, adding further depth to the artisans’ experience and bolstering their confidence.
A highlight of the event was the impressive sales from SKV’s first graduating class in Bagalkote, who liquidated 80% of their collections – a financial milestone that underscored the power of bypassing traditional middlemen to secure substantial earnings directly. This achievement motivates future students and signals a shift in the artisanal craft market, where SKV artisans are empowered to sustain their work independently.
Gratitude was extended to Somaiya Vidyavihar University for providing the venue for a post-exhibition sales analysis workshop and to Somaiya School of Design for its volunteers, whose participation left a meaningful impact on both the artisans and the students.
Nishit remarked, “This exhibition is more than a sale; it’s the launch of our students as artisan designers. Nowhere else in India can one witness an exhibition of collections entirely designed by artisans, a direct result of their year-long education at SKV. We are grateful for Mumbai’s warm welcome, and we look forward to returning every year.”
The next showcase of SKV’s work will be held on December 7, 2024, at its campus in Anjar, where the annual convocation and a fashion show will bring together the artisans’ remarkable journey. The event will be open to all, inviting attendees to experience the continued evolution of India’s artisanal heritage, skillfully woven with modern design insights.
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