A Hundred Hands, a Bengaluru-based artisan collective, is back this week for the first time since the pandemic
Edition XI of A Hundred Hands, a collection of handmade products by craftsmen from across the country, will take place in Bengaluru from November 24 to 28. A Hundred Hands was founded in 2010 by sisters Mala and Sonia Dhawan with the aim of bringing together creators and their customers.
This year, the team will host around 110 artisans from different parts of the country, each representing the theme of product sustainability. Apart from motifs and materials, these craftsmen have used natural dyes and non-toxic paints in the making of eco-friendly products.
“The last two years have been really challenging for the artisans; The pandemic not only halted trade, but raw materials were also hard to come by, making it doubly difficult for them to earn their living,” Mala Dhawan said at the event after the pandemic had boosted morale within the community.
The artisans are battling the recent rains and erratic train schedules to make it to the event. “We are getting to see other artisans from A Hundred Hands after a long time – that is a huge plus. Of course, we are also happy that this is also our chance to sell our work,” says Mohan Prajapati, an artist from Rajasthan.
Collectively, 100% of sales go back to the creators and this year, several Bengaluru-based artisans participating in the event have subsidized their costs and contributed to helping out-of-towners, says Mala. Huh.
The volunteers have made every effort to organize the event. “Curation, design, coordination, social media – all have fallen because of the efforts of volunteers and supporters. 27 interns from Srishti School of Design’s mentorship project are also helping with the event,” says Mala, commenting on all the artisans have been imposed and the COVID-19 protocol will be followed during the event.
More than 30% of artisans will make their debut in this edition of the collective. Apart from traditional art forms, jewelery and home decor products from across the country, GI tag items such as Udayagiri cutlery and food fabrics from Karnataka along with natural dyes and embroidery work will also be on display.
Workshops on miniature painting and pottery as well as live demos will also be part of A Hundred Hands which will be held at Bangalore International Center (BIC) from November 24 to 28.
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