Handwoven and homespun gave way to cheaper machine-made fabrics, handcrafted wooden block printing gave way to printed mass produced designs. Copper and brass kitchen ware made space for microwave safe ceramics.

 

The traditional crafts and skills handed down the generations are in danger of dying out, as the skilled artisans migrate to anonymity and the indignity of the poor migrant to the cities.

 

As a way to return the dignity, there is a move towards appreciating the handcrafted once again. At EkiBeki, we give the artisans a new channel to upskill the old crafts, give the karigar new designs and access to new technology. To keep his skills relevant in our modern world.

 

For instance

- Meenakari, the dying art of enameling on copper, now is used to create amazing wall plates using the same techniques. The artisans use leftover chips from tambat ali copper vessels to create wall plates, tea light holders, even modern jewelry

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- Using the motifs from Gond and Madhubani art, EkiBeki creates stationery, notebooks and gift envelopes. All royalty from your purchase goes to the artisans

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- And in the pretty cafes across cities, in schools and clubs, EkiBeki conducts specially curated workshops, along the lines of reading a book in a "human library". As the artisan explains his craft and the designs, these workshops are also a chance to understand the history of the country seen through the evelution of the art forms. From the dots and dashes of Gond art that are so similar to aboriginal Australia, to the influence of the British rule on Pattachitra, the workshops are also a great way for the younger generation to relive our histories

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- As a way to keep the art forms mainstream in Urban India, EkiBeki collaborates on designing large wall murals using the traditional art forms. From Starbucks cafes across the country to corporate offices, even wedding backdrops, this is a beautiful way to keep the old ways more meaningful

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Every purchase you make supports in upskilling the artisans directly. EkiBeki is a not-for-profit organisation. As Mr Yogesh Joshi, Kuala Lumpur said, "Instead of charity donations, this is a great way to support the artisans." 

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Let us all bring back the pride and joy in the ethnic handcrafted beauties, that bring the past and the present together.