History of Design Interventions

Individual designers and organizations began initiating design interventions in Kachchh decades ago.  Though artisans have been eager to develop new designs and products through these partnerships, design interventions have become a source of frustration.

Designers have come to Kachchh to experiment with the region’s techniques and products yet they often leave before completing a design process from which artisans can truly benefit.   Artisans are left with experimental products that often lack technical finish.  Many newly designed products are never put into production.  In addition, artisans are unable to develop a strategy for bringing newly designed products to market. 

KHAMIR's Design Service Centre

Khamir recognizes the importance and potential of design interventions.  KHAMIR’s Design Service Centre prioritizes the interest of Kachchh’s artisans while supporting designers interested in exploring the traditional skills, techniques, and the unique look of Kachchh craft.  The Design Service Centre’s holistic approach attempts to make craft sustainable by preserving a rich craft tradition, helping artisans respond to current market demands, and empowering artisans’ creative capacities.

Our holistic approach attempts to make craft sustainable by preserving a rich craft tradition, helping artisans respond to current market demands, and empowering artisans’ creative capacities.

Developing Artisan Capacity

KHAMIR’s Design Service Centre supports artisans by introducing artisans to innovative raw materials and product design through workshops and comprehensive design interventions.  These workshops, led by national and international designers, not only expose artisans to new designs, they also build artisan interest and capacity for design and inspire collaboration. In addition, KHAMIR’s Design Service Centre provides services in presentation, categorization, and documentation.

Supporting Designers

The Design Service Centre also serves designers by collecting and providing information about the history, techniques, skills, and look of Kachchhi craft.  The centre’s staff works with designers to ensure that designs reflect regional influences and Kachchh’s rich craft history.  The Design Service Centre also catalogues samples techniques, processes, and craft history so designers can access Kachchh’s rich craft traditions.

KHAMIR serves designers by collecting and making accessible information about the history, techniques, skills, and look of Kachchhi craft.

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