Somaiya Kala Vidya - Learn Textile Traditions

Somaiya Kala Vidya offers workshops and courses in textile traditions including weaving, block printing, batik, bandhani, embroidery, appliqué and patchwork.

Taught by expert traditional artisans of Kutch who are educated in design and business, workshops and courses offer richly rewarding experiences in understanding traditions and broadening the comprehension of art, craft and design.

Somaiya Kala Vidya does not levy fees from women artisan participants, and takes a token fee from the men artisan students. Fees from the Textile Traditions workshops and courses contribute to the operation of the institute.

"I was skeptical, but the Somaiya Kala Vidya workshops were the best part of the trip. They gave me a whole new appreciation of craft."

Claire Pratt, 2014

Workshops

SKV workshops for design and textile enthusiasts focus on concept and techniques of textile arts of Kutch. Taught by master traditional artisans who have graduated from a design program, and coordinated by Founder Director Judy Frater, workshops can be for the duration of 1 day, 2 days, or 5 days.

Participants learn age-old traditional techniques, and uses of color, form and pattern. Working with traditional artisans, they appreciate concept as well as learn skills.

In-depth Courses

For those who want a more in-depth experience, Somaiya Kala Vidya offers a 22-day course in Textile Traditions of Kutch. Master artisans who have studied design and teacher training expertly instruct. Coordinated by Founder Director Judy Frater, the course is a rare opportunity to learn craft traditions from the masters, with academic structure and rigor.

Six hands-on sessions provide an understanding of craft skills and the deep traditional knowledge that supports them.

Participants :
» Learn a traditional technique and aesthetic style
» Experience a traditional system of learning
» Gain a perspective of their own culture

Open Studio Tours

For those who don’t want to roll up their sleeves, SKV offers Open Studio Tours, day-long visits to studios of traditional weavers and Ajrakh block printers who have graduated from a design program. Host artisans focus on the traditional essence and individual innovations of contemporary textiles. Close interaction with these young masters provides an off-the -beaten track experience in understanding living traditions.

Lunch in the home of an artisan designer and a display of work from all participating artisan designers are included.

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