Showcasing the arts of India

Many of us just talk about the neglected art forms of India but some like Shibani Jain from Mumbai do something about. Her journey as told to Jamuna Rangachari is given below 

I am always inspired by the artisans of India and the fabulous skills that we have been given as a legacy that is passed down to us from generations. These ancient traditions are still available to us, as a strong cultural connect into our identity and roots.  

I am also inspired by strong women like my mother and other change makers. They balance their daily lives with the pressures of work related commitments and are actively motivated to make a difference to society. I’m amazed by their incessant energy, and selfless drive to bring positive change. 

I have had the support of my life partner in all aspects of my career and professional life. Right from being a mentor to me, to helping me when I get into challenging situations, my husband Vipul Jain and co-founder, Hand for Handmade Foundation has been a source of great support. 

I am also fortunate to have the trust and support of many artisans across India. They go out of their way to facilitate my vision into their creation. 

Challenges 

There were many challenges of working with the Craft sector. It is unlike any other sector. Right from educating customers about the value of handmade work to getting a production work done in remote locations, to communicating with artisans, to maintaining uncompromising quality standards- all of this has been a challenge.  

Artisans need exposure to modern day markets, technology and new ways of working. We are constantly working towards figuring  out the gaps and the best way to support and train artisan who have been cut-off from modern day and urban India. 

Special moments 

The most special moments are when I get to travel to artisan canters, meet with them, see their processes and share a meal with them. It is the most satisfying experience for me as I am always amazed to see their creativity and inspiring skills. 

Perspective and vision 

My vision is to provide the handmade community a way to engage with modern day requirements and on the other hand to reconnect people with their cultural legacy 

I would like to share about how working with handicrafts has given me a deep perspective into my own identity and roots. The sheet diversity of handmade skills across India is something that deserves to be cherished and preserved. I wish that more people would engage with this rich heritage of arts and crafts in India.  

The path I have chosen has been a deeply meaningful journey. It has given me a sense of understanding my own country and culture. I have had the opportunity to see the most beautiful places which also have a repository of the most incredible skills.  I feel I have made a difference in the lives of artisans that we work with through providing design innovation support and new age learning opportunities. 

My vision is to provide the handmade community a way to engage with modern day requirements and on the other hand to reconnect people with their cultural legacy 

I would like to share about how working with handicrafts has given me a deep perspective into my own identity and roots. The sheet diversity of handmade skills across India is something that deserves to be cherished and preserved. I wish that more people would engage with this rich heritage of arts and crafts in India.  

The path I have chosen has been a deeply meaningful journey. It has given me a sense of understanding my own country and culture. I have had the opportunity to see the most beautiful places which also have a repository of the most incredible skills.  I feel I have made a difference in the lives of artisans that we work with through providing design innovation support and new age learning opportunities. 

We wish her all the best for the future. 

By Jamuna Rangachari