KHAMIR- Craft Resource Centre’s Craft Focal Points address the holistic needs of Kachchh’s textile and non-textile craft sectors. KHAMIR currently works intensively with ajrakh block printing, leather craft, lac turned wood, metal bell making, pottery, silver jewellery, and handloom weaving through its seven Craft Focal Points.  Each focal point works in partnership with local artisans to identify, address, and coordinate initiatives to revitalize each craft sector.

KHAMIR’s approach integrates livelihood, ecological, art, and cultural perspective

KHAMIR’s approach integrates livelihood, ecological, art, and cultural perspectives as it works to address the common and individual factors challenging each craft sector.  These challenges include: information access, raw materials and natural resources, design, markets, trade, socio-economic development and their inter-relationships.

KHAMIR recognizes that there are 21 textile and non-textile craft sectors in Kachchh. Each sector needs intensive facilitation and proactive developmental support for organizing and upgrading the means and mode of production.  In 2006, KHAMIR administered an assessment of Kachchh’s craft sectors which helped it to identify the factors that challenge the sustainability of the region’s creative industries and to prioritize the needs of seven craft sectors.

KHAMIR’s Craft Focal Points are now working to reposition and revitalize Kachchh’s ajrakh block printing, leather craft, lac turned wood, metal bell, pottery, silver jewellery, and handloom weaving craft sectors.

For more information about Kachchh craft traditions,livelihoods,challenges and opportunities, visit our Creative Industries pages or hear craft stories from local artisans.