Anjala SS

Category: Interior

Competitions: Home Competition [Now Closed]

Vitruvian Clock: Revitalizing Tradition through Timeless Innovation In the craft village of Nimmalakunta, Andhra Pradesh, artisans have long been celebrated for their exquisite leather puppetry, a tradition with deep historical roots. These skilled craftsmen process leather meticulously, drawing and painting intricate characters on it, and creating joints that enable movement for traditional puppet shows. However, the demand for puppetry has dwindled in modern times as storytelling mediums have evolved, causing this rich craft to fade. Additionally, the traditional context of the products, primarily centered around Hindu Puranic stories, limits their appeal. To rejuvenate this craft and adapt it to contemporary markets, I propose the introduction of a new product range that leverages the artisans' unique skills in a modern context: the Vitruvian Clock. This concept blends the traditional art of leather puppetry with the functionality of a clock, creating a product that is both innovative and globally recognizable. The Vitruvian Clock is designed with sustainability and natural materials in mind. It utilizes bamboo and leather, emphasizing eco-friendly practices. The clock's structure is crafted from bamboo, chosen for its durability and sustainability, while the decorative and functional elements are made from processed leather, showcasing the artisans' intricate painting and detailing skills. A distinctive feature of the Vitruvian Clock is its second hand, designed to mimic the movement of a puppet's limb, specifically inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man. The second hand, shaped like one of the Vitruvian Man's arms, moves fluidly, embodying the traditional puppet motion. The joinery of the puppet elements is crafted using the original puppetry techniques, preserving the authenticity and craftsmanship of the traditional methods. This new product range not only preserves the artisans 'craft but also repurposes their skills for a wider, international market. The Vitruvian Clock stands as a testament to the versatility and timelessness of their art, ensuring its relevance and sustainability in the modern era.

Category: Accessories

Competitions: Fashion Competition [Now Closed]

Bloom: A Symphony of Tradition and Innovation "Bloom" is a jewelry set crafted with bamboo and parchment leather, inspired by the traditional craft village in Andhra Pradesh renowned for its exquisite leather puppetry. As this ancient craft faces the threat of fading away, "Bloom" introduces a new product range that is essential for its preservation and revival. This initiative involves comprehensive research and collaboration with artisans to deeply understand their techniques, traditions, and challenges. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage. Bamboo, known for its eco-friendliness, is used alongside parchment leather, creating a harmonious blend of contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship. Importantly, no synthetic materials are included for joinery or additions, ensuring an authentic and sustainable approach. The centerpiece of the "Bloom" collection is a necklace that ingeniously combines form and function. The neckband is crafted from two pieces of bamboo, connected with a hook-like pendant also made of bamboo. This pendant serves as a locking mechanism for the necklace, securing it comfortably around the neck with a thread tie at the back. The design of the pendant symbolizes a flower being placed in a vase, inspired by the natural and cultural practice of plucking flowers to beautify spaces. The petals of the pendant are made from parchment leather, giving a light, airy feel that mimics the delicate nature of real flower petals. This material choice and design philosophy bring a sense of lightness to the accessory, both in terms of physical weight and visual form. "Bloom" not only revitalizes the traditional craft of leather puppetry but also ensures its long-term sustainability. By integrating bamboo and parchment leather, the jewelry set preserves a valuable cultural tradition while appealing to contemporary tastes. This initiative secures the future of the craft, allowing it to be cherished by future generations and ensuring that the artisans' skills continue to flourish.