National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Bengaluru takes the initiative to train 15 artisans from the traditional toy town of Channapatna.
This means that LED lights, office accessories and tableware will all get a traditional Channapatna makeover.
This training of artisans falls under the Union Ministry Affairs’ ‘Upgrading skills and training in traditional arts/crafts for development, Ustaad‘.
Artisans will be selected on the basis of their specialisation and their training will be provided at home. An independent product designer from Italy, Ankur Konwar and alumni of NIFT has taken the lead.
It is an endeavour to help artisans produce contemporary and functionally relevant products that widen their product range and promote the craft in a larger sector.
The training also focuses on reviving the lost skills used by their forefathers and implement them to make new age products. It also edges design intervention in tools used in fabricating toys to improve the finish of the products and style of working.
As the craft and techniques are two centuries old, the artisans still follow their long-established approach of creating products. They have minimalistic, clean and balanced designs.
This training helps them realise the importance of breaking the traditional outlook about their style and facilitate a wider perspective about their work.
The organic colours used are harmonious and portray the famed visual allure of the traditional Channapatna toys, besides keeping the tag of being eco-friendly. A matte finish is also given to all the products.
What has been forgotten in these centuries is the use of gold and its ratio proportion amongst other skills!
This training will provide an exposure to the craft and expand it beyond confines.