JAMDANI, TRADITION AND TECHNIQUE
AN INTRODUCTION TO A HISTORICAL TEXTILE
Venue: Bikaner House, New Delhi
Dates: December 2017
Jamdani tells a story of politics and intrigue, trade and enterprise, beauty and fashion, and above all, the skill and innovation of the Indian craftsperson. As a part of its Golden Jubilee celebrations, the Delhi Crafts Council celebrated this famed historical textile fulfilling its objective to recognize and work with craft practices that may be endangered.
The historical section of the exhibition consisted of a well-researched text along with the historical process of production. Textile examples from the late 19th-20th century, borrowed from museums and private collections from the important centers of jamdani weaving were on display. Among these, the Dhaka jamdanis made with the finest of skills, were expensive and the most sought after, but unfortunately the skill-set declined. The second section was a revival story that emerged in West Bengal, Benaras in UP, and Upadda in Andhra Pradesh. Physical textiles along with an extant design directory of jamdani designs were innovatively displayed. A physical jamdani loom along with Master weaver Jyotish Debnath added value to the exhibition.
The opening ceremony was dedicated to the honouring of masters and crafts persons continuing this tradition. ‘In Conversation’ with the living masters of this tradition was a vibrant panel discussion organized along with the Craft Revival Trust. A small bazzar was set up to encourage and give an opportunity to the practicing crafts persons for better sales.
Curated by the Delhi Crafts Council, this exhibition was well received by the audience.
