Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The Functional Art Of Terracotta
Terracotta, the first creative expression of civilization, man's first attempt at craftsmanship. Terracotta, a form of art that is considered magical in ancient India for its atavistic nature which incorporates five elements - earth, water, air, fire and ether.Terracotta is basically a ceramic. Etymologically Italian, terracotta means "baked earth" or "fired earth". But the term 'terracotta' is also used to refer to the particulars made out of it. The craft of terra cotta involves using clay to prepare reddish brown unglazed earthenware firing it through a very high temperature. The reddish brown color is basically because of the presence of iron. Other colors include yellow, grey and pink.The history of sculptor and pottery started with terracotta. From the petty earthen pot for the trivialities of daily use to the idols they worship, terra cotta occupied an important place in the lives of the people of ancient India, without which life would come to a stand-still for them. In the Indian sub continent terracotta art bears testimony to the varied and ancient traditions of its practice over five millennia. Harrappa and Mohenjodaro civilization bears the evidences of the antiquity of the craft terracotta.But the domain of the craft of terracotta is not confined only to India. The art of terracotta has defined a culture for generations in Imprunetta of Italy where the craft is still blooming. Beginning in the 15th century and continuing through the 18th, Italian sculptors raised terra cotta to a status of indomitable fame in the house of European creative art. The terracotta stuff handcrafted by them has the exquisity and antique traditions respecting the cultural and professional continuity of the art. Among other countries making extensive use of the art of terracotta are China, England, France, America and Africa (west). The Terracotta Army of China (the terra cotta soldiers), the Abduction of Hippodameia (from Greek mythology) in France, and the two buildings of Victorian Birmingham in England bear testimonial of this antique art of terra cotta.The craft of terracotta in India is an epitome of religious expression conveyed through clay. Molded clay is converted to masks and murals capturing the sculptor's imagination. Nevertheless, always existing outside the rigid rules of the constituted Hindu canons governing artistic expression, the art of terracotta enjoys enormous freedom in terms of imagination and conception which lead to the parturition of a wide variety of sculptures with the tag of 'beauty and ethnicity' attached to it, for good. In the world scenario, the most famous terracotta sculptures are those of the Terracotta Warriors in China.The basic features which are still holding the millions of years old craft of terra cotta and which lead to its flourishing success yet are the simplicity of the process and its eco-friendliness. The simpler process of creating a finished product and the reusable mold-making techniques places it on a higher position to bronze sculpture. As compared to the stone works like marble, terracotta products are far lighter. Hence, terracotta bells and terracotta clocks could be easily put anywhere as compared to the marble ones.A village in India without a potter creating miracles of terracotta would be a long search, may be a never-ending one. Products for daily use, decorative items like murals, masks, clocks, bells, tiles, pots, molded bricks, sculptures in temples……….the range of terracotta products is a wide one. The fable of rich Mother Earth, imparts the medium, terracotta, with such a high degree of mouldability and adaptability that beauty of form, color and texture varies across the length and breadth of the country, and across the world.The mask culture dating back to the pre-historic rock paintings of 3000 B.C. has traveled down the ages and is still alive in the form of terra cotta masks. Tribal terracotta masks still form a part of their community celebrations. Handmade terra cotta masks depict myriad expression. Decorative small terracotta bells and clocks, terra cotta masks and murals, placed anywhere, or mounted in beveled glass, make an interesting statement in itself. The presence of terracotta tiles gives an earthy and countryside look, and adds simplicity with elegance to the interiors, used wheresoever. Terra cotta tiles can be used in the foyer, living room, family room, terrace, balcony, corridors……any place where you want the earthy feeling, the feeling of the five basic elements of life. Terra cotta tiles can be used as paintings or wall hangings. A terracotta tile mounted to a simple creamy background, focused with good yellow lighting can create magical effect.Terracotta murals are a rage now. Making an attractive visual focal point in a room, terra cotta murals can adorn both exteriors and interiors. Adding a terra cotta mural to our living room, where we can entertain friends can be a fantastic idea to earn compliments! Also known as 'waterproof ceramic', terracotta springs from earth, air, water and fire, the elements comprising the universe. Its antiquity, its beauty, its adaptability and its simplicity earned terra cotta the famous tag of the "Lyric of Handicraft".
Handmade quilts from India
Weaving handmade quilts in India is an age old art and craft. Though the right origin for weaving handmade quilts in India is still unknown but for womenfolk in the olden times, it was their need for socializing and a need to come out of their homes that started the trend for quilting. After their husbands left the home for work, women of the neighbourhood would gather together in winter afternoons to weave the quilt covers as they discussed their daily issues.
But that apart, it was obviously also the primary need to protect their families from the chilly and cold winter nights that had these women take to hand-quilting. Today, if machine-made modern quilts are termed as decorative and beautiful, handmade quilts carry with them the charm of exquisity and ethnicity, fine detailed work along with the functionality of being warm. With the passage of time, Indian weavers have evolved the art of handmade quilt, incorporating various unique patterns and designs in it. Today handmade quilts are not only limited to using patches and similar-coloured backings but ranges from different geometric patterns and stardust motifs to floral and artistic designs, different types of fabrics ranging from silk, handloom to cottons with almost every color, be it bright or dark.
Now-a-days, handmade quilts have become more of a fashion trend and style statement than just a necessity. And infact, handmade quilts from India are now also sought after in the global market of home furnishings. For Indian craftsmen who weave handmade quilts, they have stiff competition from machine-made quilts as these are much cheaper. However, there is also another section of the population that is willing to pay the additional price for the hardwork and the passion that goes into making these beautiful handmade quilts.
Some of these handmade quilts are so beautiful that people tend to use them as wall decoratives or table covers. Some of the exotic handmade quilts are even stored into possession as an heirloom to be passed down the future generations.
With the possession of handmade quilts, it becomes very important to treat them with care and love in order to preserve them and make them ever-lasting. Be it an age old passion or newly weaved quilt, handmade quilts can be repaired with matching threads and fabrics at hand or at most they can be repaired by an experienced weaver who is good at repairing quilts or one who provides the quilts restoring services. If the handmade quilts are the heirlooms then they should be washed once in five years. But if the handmade quilts are used everyday that get dirty easily, then they should be washed often. However, it is better is handmade quilts are washed of rare as it would only result in worn and weak threads and patches. If the handmade quilts are embroidered or carry the work of beads then they can be vacuumed. They should be aired time and time again in order to keep them from stinking.
But that apart, it was obviously also the primary need to protect their families from the chilly and cold winter nights that had these women take to hand-quilting. Today, if machine-made modern quilts are termed as decorative and beautiful, handmade quilts carry with them the charm of exquisity and ethnicity, fine detailed work along with the functionality of being warm. With the passage of time, Indian weavers have evolved the art of handmade quilt, incorporating various unique patterns and designs in it. Today handmade quilts are not only limited to using patches and similar-coloured backings but ranges from different geometric patterns and stardust motifs to floral and artistic designs, different types of fabrics ranging from silk, handloom to cottons with almost every color, be it bright or dark.
Now-a-days, handmade quilts have become more of a fashion trend and style statement than just a necessity. And infact, handmade quilts from India are now also sought after in the global market of home furnishings. For Indian craftsmen who weave handmade quilts, they have stiff competition from machine-made quilts as these are much cheaper. However, there is also another section of the population that is willing to pay the additional price for the hardwork and the passion that goes into making these beautiful handmade quilts.
Some of these handmade quilts are so beautiful that people tend to use them as wall decoratives or table covers. Some of the exotic handmade quilts are even stored into possession as an heirloom to be passed down the future generations.
With the possession of handmade quilts, it becomes very important to treat them with care and love in order to preserve them and make them ever-lasting. Be it an age old passion or newly weaved quilt, handmade quilts can be repaired with matching threads and fabrics at hand or at most they can be repaired by an experienced weaver who is good at repairing quilts or one who provides the quilts restoring services. If the handmade quilts are the heirlooms then they should be washed once in five years. But if the handmade quilts are used everyday that get dirty easily, then they should be washed often. However, it is better is handmade quilts are washed of rare as it would only result in worn and weak threads and patches. If the handmade quilts are embroidered or carry the work of beads then they can be vacuumed. They should be aired time and time again in order to keep them from stinking.
Patchwork : An Integral Craft of India
India, the land of diverse cultures, of diverse customs, of diverse languages and habits, and of diverse arts and crafts, yet united together by a single bond, its cultural richness, its art and craft, known to the world since ages. Patchwork, a sibling of the rich handcraft and art of the Indian subcontinent.
Also known as piecing, patchwork involves joining together pieces of fabric into a larger design. Patches of various shapes and colors lead to the making of a larger design, usually based on repeat patterns. Patchwork, one of the primary construction techniques of quilting, is often combined with appliqué. Basic geometric shapes are usually used in the making of most of the patch work items which need precise joining so that it lies without puckers.
Patch work in India is mainly associated with the westernmost states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, though Punjab and Orissa also practices this craft. Various coloured and patterned fabrics of different shapes and sizes are together on a plain background. An important feature characterizing Indian patchwork is that the stitches of the patches are not hidden but are done with jazzy shades which get highlighted, adding a more artistic appeal.
Making its way to India from Europe and Arabia, patchwork in an important craft in the country now, creating a unique art making dramatic use of colour. Gujarati patchwork items are the most well known ones. Highly ornamented with motifs, the magical spell of patch work items lies in the contors of each individual. Glaring motifs of trees, birds and animals in bold colors can be seen in each patchwork item – shaped patches sewn unto cotton cloth.
Expressing the stark monotony of the engulfing deserts, the patchwork items of the westernmost states of Gujarat and Rajasthan reveal the imaginations and innovations of the craftsman. Bold and beautiful, created with warmth and artistry, patch work still remains the integral art of the western states.
From patchwork quilts and bedcovers to patchwork wall hangings , runners and cushion covers, the range of patchwork items is a great one. When used in the making of a quilt, the large colorful composite patchwork becomes the top of a three layered quilt, the middle layer being the batting and the bottom layer the backing. The patchwork quilts are tinged with warmth and color, an artistic appeal sprinkled all through. A patchwork quilt is a respite from the staid conventional ones.
Patch work bedcovers and patchwork bed spreads are a modern way to give a traditional touch. A karwachauth celebration with a patchwork bedcover becomes more celebrative. A patchwork bedcover would make any festival more celebrative, more colorful.
A newer trend is setting in of using patchwork in decorative items. Patch work wall hangings are a traditional way to add color to every living room. Mounted onto a plain staid background, a patchwork wall hanging looks gorgeous and fashionable.
Take a break from staid leather, black and brown……use patchwork cushion covers, an easy way to earn compliments, and approvals for your designer outlook.
Also known as piecing, patchwork involves joining together pieces of fabric into a larger design. Patches of various shapes and colors lead to the making of a larger design, usually based on repeat patterns. Patchwork, one of the primary construction techniques of quilting, is often combined with appliqué. Basic geometric shapes are usually used in the making of most of the patch work items which need precise joining so that it lies without puckers.
Patch work in India is mainly associated with the westernmost states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, though Punjab and Orissa also practices this craft. Various coloured and patterned fabrics of different shapes and sizes are together on a plain background. An important feature characterizing Indian patchwork is that the stitches of the patches are not hidden but are done with jazzy shades which get highlighted, adding a more artistic appeal.
Making its way to India from Europe and Arabia, patchwork in an important craft in the country now, creating a unique art making dramatic use of colour. Gujarati patchwork items are the most well known ones. Highly ornamented with motifs, the magical spell of patch work items lies in the contors of each individual. Glaring motifs of trees, birds and animals in bold colors can be seen in each patchwork item – shaped patches sewn unto cotton cloth.
Expressing the stark monotony of the engulfing deserts, the patchwork items of the westernmost states of Gujarat and Rajasthan reveal the imaginations and innovations of the craftsman. Bold and beautiful, created with warmth and artistry, patch work still remains the integral art of the western states.
From patchwork quilts and bedcovers to patchwork wall hangings , runners and cushion covers, the range of patchwork items is a great one. When used in the making of a quilt, the large colorful composite patchwork becomes the top of a three layered quilt, the middle layer being the batting and the bottom layer the backing. The patchwork quilts are tinged with warmth and color, an artistic appeal sprinkled all through. A patchwork quilt is a respite from the staid conventional ones.
Patch work bedcovers and patchwork bed spreads are a modern way to give a traditional touch. A karwachauth celebration with a patchwork bedcover becomes more celebrative. A patchwork bedcover would make any festival more celebrative, more colorful.
A newer trend is setting in of using patchwork in decorative items. Patch work wall hangings are a traditional way to add color to every living room. Mounted onto a plain staid background, a patchwork wall hanging looks gorgeous and fashionable.
Take a break from staid leather, black and brown……use patchwork cushion covers, an easy way to earn compliments, and approvals for your designer outlook.
Silk Scarves- A Fashion Accessory for every Season
Indian fashion has remained ever evolving when it comes to silk scarves because silk weaving has always been recognized as a traditional art in the history of Indian handicrafts. Over the past few decades the skilled Indian weavers, with their indigenous talent and art of weaving have made continuous efforts to improve and revive this almost vanished art and a beautiful accessory- the silk scarves.
Today, this beautiful fashion accessory, when worn correctly, can enhance any apparel. Silk scarves can be worn with different outfits for different looks, be it the chic casual look or professional look, the elegant look of evening party or the classy look for any concert. Ofcourse, with fashion designers creating new trends and style statements every other season, a lot of scarves with varied range of materials, shapes, sizes and colours have made their presence felt in the world of fashion. To name some of these, there are the embroidered scarves, pashmina scarves, beaded scarves, wool scarves, chenille scarves, cotton scarves, polyester, crocheted, viscose, velvet scarves and to name a few. But personally I feel, the scarves which have left a mark in the world of apparels and fashion are the silk scarves. It is the nature of the material that makes it capable of incorporating several patterns, colors and designs in it and giving out the unlimited possibilities of enhancing one’s persona and making a fashion statement.
Silk scarves are delicate, rich-looking and pretty and so they also make for a perfect gift item. It is for their smooth and luxurious fabric that they have always been linked with a classy, sensuous and elegant look. A nice collection of silk scarves can also help one don a new look every season without either compromising on fashion or spending a lot of moolah. Keeping away these stylish issues for a while, what makes silk scarves the most preferred accessory is the fact that silk is a natural fibre which is strong enough to be torn off easily as compared to cotton or any other synthetic fibre. As for its material, silk scarves are considered to be moisture- absorbent and so they help keep the body cooler in summers and warmer during winters. Most people like to wear bright silk scarves during twilight as its smooth and plain fabric helps reflect the bright colours which gives out a sensuous and luxurious look.As an integral part of fashion world, there are no specified rules when it comes to different styles for wearing silk scarves. Infact one is free to experiment and explore newer styles and wear it according to his or her likes. But one important point to keep in mind while playing with styles is that one should not push on too much as it may result in making silly style statements. These silk scarves can be folded into shapes of squares, triangles or rectangles to be worn as a headscarf (to protect the hairdo/head from cold), shawl, bandanna (kerchief), bow tie or as is normally the case, an accessory to be worn round the neck.
Silk Scarves are a timeless accessory which any woman would love to admire and to have an enviable collection of. All around the world, silk scarves have found a place of their own in women’s wardrobes. Wear silk scarves with a plain looking garment and they will breathe life in them. A good option is to wear a silk scarf that matches with the colour of eyes or make-up or that co-ordinates with your clothes. Silk scarves are such a fashion accessory that can be worn not only by women but by men as well. In every season, fashion designers come up with different styles of silk scarves that can enhance any casual or professional look, if accompanied well. And when it comes to men’s fashion, it is the silk scarves with sober and subtle colours and sometimes the dark hues (depending on the color of clothes) that take the priority.
Silk Scarves are easy to take care of, but that doesn’t mean that one can get careless to throw it anywhere after use. Pretty and delicate silk scarves should be folded with care and put in drawers or hanged safely in cupboards. Putting herb sachets help keep them fresh and safe from moths. Silk scarves need to be ironed at low temperature or dry-cleaned to give them a long life. Beautiful and sensual things when taken care of lasts for long and it seems like beautiful and sensual silk scarves are back in fashion to stay for long.
Today, this beautiful fashion accessory, when worn correctly, can enhance any apparel. Silk scarves can be worn with different outfits for different looks, be it the chic casual look or professional look, the elegant look of evening party or the classy look for any concert. Ofcourse, with fashion designers creating new trends and style statements every other season, a lot of scarves with varied range of materials, shapes, sizes and colours have made their presence felt in the world of fashion. To name some of these, there are the embroidered scarves, pashmina scarves, beaded scarves, wool scarves, chenille scarves, cotton scarves, polyester, crocheted, viscose, velvet scarves and to name a few. But personally I feel, the scarves which have left a mark in the world of apparels and fashion are the silk scarves. It is the nature of the material that makes it capable of incorporating several patterns, colors and designs in it and giving out the unlimited possibilities of enhancing one’s persona and making a fashion statement.
Silk scarves are delicate, rich-looking and pretty and so they also make for a perfect gift item. It is for their smooth and luxurious fabric that they have always been linked with a classy, sensuous and elegant look. A nice collection of silk scarves can also help one don a new look every season without either compromising on fashion or spending a lot of moolah. Keeping away these stylish issues for a while, what makes silk scarves the most preferred accessory is the fact that silk is a natural fibre which is strong enough to be torn off easily as compared to cotton or any other synthetic fibre. As for its material, silk scarves are considered to be moisture- absorbent and so they help keep the body cooler in summers and warmer during winters. Most people like to wear bright silk scarves during twilight as its smooth and plain fabric helps reflect the bright colours which gives out a sensuous and luxurious look.As an integral part of fashion world, there are no specified rules when it comes to different styles for wearing silk scarves. Infact one is free to experiment and explore newer styles and wear it according to his or her likes. But one important point to keep in mind while playing with styles is that one should not push on too much as it may result in making silly style statements. These silk scarves can be folded into shapes of squares, triangles or rectangles to be worn as a headscarf (to protect the hairdo/head from cold), shawl, bandanna (kerchief), bow tie or as is normally the case, an accessory to be worn round the neck.
Silk Scarves are a timeless accessory which any woman would love to admire and to have an enviable collection of. All around the world, silk scarves have found a place of their own in women’s wardrobes. Wear silk scarves with a plain looking garment and they will breathe life in them. A good option is to wear a silk scarf that matches with the colour of eyes or make-up or that co-ordinates with your clothes. Silk scarves are such a fashion accessory that can be worn not only by women but by men as well. In every season, fashion designers come up with different styles of silk scarves that can enhance any casual or professional look, if accompanied well. And when it comes to men’s fashion, it is the silk scarves with sober and subtle colours and sometimes the dark hues (depending on the color of clothes) that take the priority.
Silk Scarves are easy to take care of, but that doesn’t mean that one can get careless to throw it anywhere after use. Pretty and delicate silk scarves should be folded with care and put in drawers or hanged safely in cupboards. Putting herb sachets help keep them fresh and safe from moths. Silk scarves need to be ironed at low temperature or dry-cleaned to give them a long life. Beautiful and sensual things when taken care of lasts for long and it seems like beautiful and sensual silk scarves are back in fashion to stay for long.
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