Artisans Embrace a Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Indian artisans are reinventing traditional lanterns by integrating ancient calligraphy with modern design techniques. This unique fusion results in stunning lanterns that honor both heritage and contemporary aesthetics. Crafted from terracotta and featuring regional scripts, these lanterns are capturing the beauty of Indian culture in a refreshingly modern way.

“Akshara” Exhibition Showcases the Art of Scripted Craftsmanship
One of the most notable displays of this trend is found at the “Akshara: Crafting Indian Scripts” exhibition, curated by Jaya Jaitly of Dastkari Haat Samiti. This exhibit brings together 60 artisans who specialize in 15 different crafts, from textiles to visual arts. Each piece showcases India’s calligraphic heritage through regional scripts, resulting in over 150 unique and culturally rich creations.

Bridging Literacy and Artistry for a Meaningful Design Process
A fascinating aspect of this project is the literacy challenge faced by many artisans. To bridge this gap, Jaitly emphasized the importance of learning the scripts before the design process began. She organized a six-day workshop where artisans learned the fundamentals of calligraphy, fostering a deeper understanding and inspiring new design ideas. This foundation allowed them to create calligraphy-inspired pieces that honor India’s scripts while innovating within their crafts.

Jaitly describes it as an interesting one. “While I needed to speak to some on phone, some were called for a six-day design development workshop. Skilled craftspeople were explained the concept behind calligraphy and how it can be applied to various regional scripts. New designs were evolved on paper and produced over the following three months using calligraphy. They drew from the visual strength of India’s regional scripts and were translated onto a range of products in natural materials with traditional craft skills.”

Exhibit Details and a Companion Book to Capture the Experience
For those in New Delhi, the “Akshara” exhibition will be on display at the India Habitat Centre from September 16 to 21. An accompanying book, Akshara: Crafting Indian Scripts, co-authored by Jaya Jaitly and Subrata Bhowmick, will also be released on opening day, offering a lasting glimpse into this powerful blend of script, art, and craftsmanship.

XOXO Jen