ATELIERS

Empowering Local Artisans of Meghalaya

Ateliers Program

Amidst the lush green hills and misty winds of Northeast India lies Meghalaya, a land steeped in rich cultural heritage where nature rules. But behind the stunning landscapes lies another treasure: exceptionally skilled artisans who have preserved and nurtured their artistic traditions for generations.

For far too long, these artisans' exquisite creations have been denied the recognition they deserve. Their intricate textiles, handmade ceramics, and sculptures whispered tales of a vibrant culture, yet remained hidden gems. However, a recent government initiative, the Meghalayan Age store, which opened in December 2021, is rewriting that narrative. The store serves as a bridge, connecting talented artisans with a larger audience while also ensuring that they are fairly compensated for their efforts.

At the heart of this initiative is Ateliers Meghalaya, a unique story of empowerment and cultural revitalization. The program identifies the need for design interventions, quality control, and market access. The program offers grants of up to 5 lakh rupees to selected artisans and caregivers. These mentors lead the way and help individual artisans bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern design aesthetics.

Tradition meets innovation: the spirit of collaboration

Imagine a young potter in a remote village who has experienced Larnai pottery and is struggling to adapt to modern design trends. The Ateliers Meghalaya program steps in, connecting this potter with mentors such as Rida Gatphoh and Peter Marbaniang of Dak_ti Craft. They collaborate to create a one-of-a-kind product line that is rooted in tradition while featuring modern design and functionality. They can create a new line of cookware using the same natural clays that have been used for generations, but with elegant lines and a minimalist aesthetic appropriate for a modern kitchen. This collaboration ensures the preservation of ancient techniques while also allowing them to succeed in today's market.

Sustainability at the core

Sustainability is the cornerstone of the Ateliers Meghalaya program. Crypsil KS Angma, affectionately known as Ambi, exemplifies this beautifully. She uses her skills and imagination to create wonderful baskets and decorations out of discarded materials like paper and plastic. In her hands, everyday trash transforms into works of art that breathe life into the trash and promote eco-friendly practices. Similarly, Rani Maring, a keeper of the ancient Khasi tradition, carves beautiful musical instruments and tools from fallen wood. This not only ensures the preservation of these skills but also fosters a deep respect for the environment.

Textile weaved with traditions:

Meghalaya has a rich textile heritage, which is reflected in the wonderful work of Kiniho directed by Iba Mallai. Their Ryndia silk garments showcase the expertise of Umden village's women weavers. These scarves and shawls are more than just clothes; they are stories woven with thread and dyed with organic dyes sourced from nature. Each intricate pattern and vibrant tone whisper stories about the land, its people, and its traditions.

Breathing life into clay and wood

The program empowers not only textile artisans but also clay and woodworkers. Arak M Sangma's Terra collection features artworks inspired by Garo culture made from ancient clay wells. Each piece tells a unique story, a conversation between the artist and the elements. Clay texture, subtle color variations-all speak to the earth and the artist's deep connection to it. Living in the Garo Hills, Blastin T. Sangma weaves bamboo baskets and carves miniature houses, reflecting the deep connection between his people and the forest. His creations are not simply functional objects but artistic expressions of his heritage.

Preserving the heritage: passing the torch

The Ateliers Meghalaya program goes beyond products. It is about preserving our heritage. Christine G Momin of Chokchimsa Creations embodies this spirit. Her terracotta sculptures and handwoven silks are influenced by the ancient Garo culture. Through her work, she ensures that these ancient practices evolve and pass down knowledge and skills from generation to generation. Similarly, Dkhar Nela Handloom, an award-winning weaver and entrepreneur, trains young weavers at the James Event. Nurturing young talent, she keeps alive the art of handloom weaving.

When you travel through Meghalaya, don't just fall in love with nature’s paradise. Look for unique handicrafts like a Ryndia silk scarf, a piece from the Terra collection by Arak M Sangma, or a bamboo basket woven by T Sangma from Blast. Each piece is not just a souvenir but a whispered story from the heart of Meghalaya and a tribute to the enduring spirit of its artisans. It is also a tangible reminder of the program's success in reviving tradition, driving innovation, and ensuring a brighter future for this vibrant cultural fabric. Let these creations serve as a reminder that true beauty is found not only in what we see, but also in the art, heritage, and deep connection to nature that each piece embodies.