Dear Client, thank you for your continued patronage. This year we aimed was to brighten up your home with this décor element, and that of the artisans with this job order, as well as contribute towards the green movement by taking small steps that help reduce our carbon footprint. Get a glimpse behind the scenes of how this gift was selected and curated, especially for you.
Here are a few things we modified in our packaging to build towards a sustainable approach:
A first impression: the box
We partnered with the sketch artist – Harsho to bring life to the essence and process of creating a paper mache curation. Immerse yourself in the story right from the start – know the artists and rigor they go through to bring you the best of hand made art
The Art:
When one thinks of paper mache, what come to mind are likely more along the lines of an elementary school arts and crafts project than elegant artwork. We wanted to change the perspective – amazing art of Kashmiri paper mache has been passed down by expert artisans from generation to generation, for centuries.
Paper mache was introduced to India in the 14th century by the Persian mystic Mir Syed Ali Hamdani. He was visiting the Kashmir region, and brought along skilled artisans and craftsmen. The Persian method of making paper mache melded with similar art forms from Central Asia, and a unique branch of the art of paper mache was born. Over time, Kashmiri artisans added their own flourishes to the art form to create the form that we know today.
Our exclusive teak wood plate adorns paper mache Naqashi – the designs are first drawn free hand on the object and then they are painted. The designer usually uses various motifs like carpet patterns, flowers, fruits, creepers etc. This exclusive gift depicts a lesser seen Jungle pattern with the tree of life at its centre to denote life, wellness, abundance, nurturing. To add on, organic colors made from natural and vegetable-based dyes are used. When the whole painting procedure is completed, the final step involves covering the artwork with a layer of varnish for an added shine.
The Impact
We created this present with the intention of assisting local craftsmen in developing their craft and becoming a significant source of revenue, enabling them to flourish both professionally and personally. One such example is of a local artisan with two daughters, was able to afford both his daughter’s weddings, thanks to the money he earned from this special job order.
“Aapka order hi toh meri betiyon ki shaadi mein help kar raha hai” – Artisan
In this way, we hope to enlighten your homes as we provide rays of hope to artist in need as well. We wish you cherish this beautiful creation as much as we do.