The Union Minister of State for Culture (Independent Charge), Tourism (Independent Charge) and Civil Aviation inaugurated ‘OBJECT d’ ART’(Hastkala), an exhibition cum sale of art objects and ethnic art décor, at Central Cottage Industries Emporium, Janpath, New Delhi, today. The exhibition aims to promote the majestic and decorative craft traditions of India. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the Government is taking various measures to promote handicrafts, such as linking it with tourism. Dr Mahesh Sharma said that the government is making special efforts to protect handicrafts and preserve the dying crafts. Dr. Mahesh Sharma added that exhibitions such as this play an important role in enabling the artisans to market their products and improve their income. The Minister also made an appeal to all residents of the national capital to take out some time and visit the exhibition.
The exhibition showcases Dhokra artefacts, oil lamps from the south, metal jali work on wood, Koftgiri craft such as shield with sword, Surahi (replicas from Mehrangarh fort), tile paintings, stone dust paintings, Venkatgiri wall hangings, Sanjhi art, Gond paintings, wooden patina finish panels, painted tiles, marble gold leaf artefacts and a host of other decoratives. It is organized by Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India Ltd. (CCIC), a Govt. of India undertaking under the Ministry of Textiles. Shri Pramod Nagpal, MD, CCIC said that the organization aims to provide a marketing platform for the artisans of India. He added that 70% - 75% of the sale proceeds are passed on to artisans. Shri Nagpal said that CCIC is open to enrolling new artisans and weavers, provided their products are of top quality. He said that artisans and weavers may contact any of CCIC’s emporiums for the purpose.
The Hastkala exhibition is yet another step in the series of special displays being organised by CCIC wherein artisans can directly connect with the global audience and share ideas, encouraging co-creation possibilities for collective growth. The exhibition will be open to general public from July 8 to July 19, 2015, from 1o AM to 7 PM daily.
Brief highlights of some of the products on display
Bell metal craft: The bell metal craft or Dhokra is one of the earliest known methods of metal casting. It is the original creative instinct of traditional tribal people of Bastar, Chhattisgarh and is 100% eco-friendly.
Gond art: The word Gond means ‘Green Mountains’. The work of Gond artists is rooted in their folk tales and culture and thus story telling is a strong element of every Gond painting.
Koftgiri: Ornamentation on armaments and weaponry was integral to Mughal and Rajput cultures. Motifs cover a wide variety of themes from flora and fauna, mythology to scenes from the lives of kings. Koftgiri is one such majestic craft embellished with precious metals.
Sanjhi Art: Sanjhi is the art of hand cutting designs on paper. Sanjhi art products are created in stencil, filled with vibrant colors and are used for festive decorations.