Today, I want to talk about a topic that is very close to my heart - working with indigenous artisans of West Bengal, particularly female artists. In this blog, I will be sharing with you the reasons behind why I have started working with these artists and the impact it has had on me.
West Bengal is a treasure trove of diverse traditions that have evolved over centuries. Shantiniketan is a small town in West Bengal that is known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. It is home to many talented artists, particularly those belonging to the Santhal community. I was introduced to these artists through a friend, and as soon as I saw their work, I was amazed by their creativity.
I stumbled upon something quite unique, Jewellery made out of seeds and grass, however despite their creativity and talent, many of these artists struggle to make ends meet due to lack of resources and exposure. This is where my journey with them began.
I started by collaborating with a few female artists and purchasing their work to support them financially. As our relationship grew, I began to learn more about their lives, culture, and art forms. This led me to realise that their work is not only beautiful but also holds significant cultural and historical value. I wanted to share this with the world and help preserve their traditions.
The Santhal community, an indigenous tribe in India, has a rich cultural heritage and a unique artistic tradition. This community is one of the largest tribal communities in India, and they have a deep connection to the land and nature. They are known for their sustainable agricultural practices and their ability to live in harmony with the environment. This connection to nature is reflected in their art, which often depicts scenes from the natural world
From nature to art - the remarkable art of seed jewellery
I have a very special guest with me - Sumati, a talented female seed jewellery artist from the Santhal community of West Bengal. I am thrilled to have her with me to talk about her art, her inspiration, and her journey as an artist.
She picked this craft from her uncle when she was a child and has been practicing it for more than 10 years now.
Meet the remarkable artisan who takes natural materials like seeds, beads and grass to a whole new level. She's a collector, a processor, and a creative mastermind all rolled into one. Her passion for nature is reflected in her craft, as she only works with natural materials that she forages herself.
For her jewellery collection, she went on a quest to find palm leaves that were at least 30 years old. After gathering them in bunches, she got to work on processing them. With a hammer in hand, she pounded away at the leaves, softening them and preparing them for the next step.
Next, she meticulously scraped off any imperfections with a sharp blade, until the leaves were just right. Then came the soaking stage, where the entire bunch of leaves was submerged in water for a week. This process gave the leaves their unique, earthy brown color, making them perfect for her jewellery making.
But the process wasn't over yet. Before creating her stunning pieces, she soaked the leaves once again to make them soft and flexible, allowing her to bend and shape them into the beautiful jewellery designs she's known for.
Sumati’s dedication to using natural materials and her expertise in processing them into stunning jewelry pieces is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Her work is not only a testament to her creativity but also to her deep respect and connection to the natural world.
Battling challenges - the toll of handmade craftsmanship
Crafting handmade items is not without its challenges, as Sumati can attest to. Finding the right raw materials is no easy feat, as it requires the hunting of old trees that are suitable for harvesting. But despite this challenge, this artisan perseveres and puts in the time and effort needed to source the best materials.
When asked about her income, she explains that it's enough to get by, with the winter season from October to February being the most profitable. Summers can be slow, but she's able to supplement her income through handicraft fairs.
However, the work takes a toll on her body. Working indoors for 3-4 hours at a stretch has caused pain in her shoulder and affected her vision. But despite the physical challenges, she's adapted to the work and continues to create beautiful pieces.
One of the biggest challenges she faces is the lack of understanding from some customers. They fail to appreciate the effort and time it takes to source and process high-quality raw materials that will last. Instead, they question the value of her work, assuming that the materials are easy to find. But for those who understand the value of her work, bargaining is never an issue.
Sumati’s story is a testament to the challenges and rewards of handmade craftsmanship. It's not just about the final product, but also about the dedication and passion that goes into every piece. The next time you purchase a handmade item, remember the hard work and skill that went into creating it.
My collaboration with indigenous artisans, particularly female artists has been an incredible journey for me. It has allowed me to support and empower them while also learning and preserving their cultural heritage. I encourage everyone to explore and appreciate the art and culture of indigenous communities and support them in any way you can.
When you buy from an indeginous artisan, you are not just purchasing a beautiful piece of art – you are also supporting sustainable practices and the preservation of traditional crafts. Unlike mass-produced objects, each piece is made with care and attention to detail, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
By supporting these artisans, you are also helping to support the local economy and preserve traditional cultural practices. Many of these artisans come from families that have been making handicrafts for generations, and buying their work helps to ensure that these traditions will continue to be passed down.
So next time you're looking for a special gift or a unique piece of décor, consider buying from these rural artisans – you won't be disappointed!
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