I am really pleased with how February is shaping up. The month is all about working on the projects we have each devised so Jeni and I will be going our separate ways for much of the time.
The discoveries I made in October about khadi and several other 'k's have fused into a plan. I have the opportunity to stay first at Khamir's Craft Resource Centre where I will be working with a dyer and a block printer to produce some large textile pieces featuring indigo dyes on Kala cotton.
Khadi - khadi is not just a cloth, it is a whole movement started by Gandhi who began promoting the spinning of khādī for rural self-employment and self-reliance. True khadi cloth is handspun and handwoven. Khadi paper has a high percentage of cotton in it, usually now from recycled clothing.
Khamir - An NGO formed after the huge earthquake of 2001 which devastated the city of Bhuj and the surrounding area. In its own words, Khamir works 'to enable rural creative industries in Kutch to become profitable and a model of sustainable economic practice.' It also provides 'a common roof where artisans and experts with a commitment to craft practice can exchange knowledge, build capacities, offer supportive services and conserve natural and cultural heritage'. Khamir means intrinsic pride in Kutchi.
Kala cotton - an old world cotton which is mainly grown in Kutch. It has a much lower ecological footprint than modern hybrid cottons. Khamir seeks to reinstate old world cotton fabrics, involving farmers, spinners, dyers, weavers and designers to create products which promote the local economy.
I'm pretty pleased that this exhibition will be in progress when I am there too...
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