Gen Z : Meet the designer who’s curating Himachali art

Growing up in the picturesque hills of Shimla, I was surrounded by constant inspiration. The breathtaking sunsets, ever-changing vibrant landscapes, and rich traditions of the region all fueled my passion for design. Being raised in a family of creatives further nurtured my artistic inclinations. My journalist father instilled in me the art of storytelling, while my teacher mother expressed her own creativity through designing and knitting. Sadly, I lost my mother at a young age, but her love for fashion and arts left a lasting impact on me. I admired her taste and her collection of traditional textiles and embroidery work. Participating in art competitions and living in such a creative environment from a young age instilled in me a deep appreciation for design and a keen eye for detail.

Major Achievements:

– Collaborated with the government of Himachal Pradesh, designing and supplying artworks to high-ranking officials including the Prime Minister and the President of India.
– Curated and showcased a collection of 25+ Himachali artworks at the President’s Estate, Mashobra, inaugurated by the President herself.
– Developed souvenir kits in collaboration with artisans and start-ups from Himachal, providing them to delegates at the G20 conference held in Dharamshala, promoting the state’s crafts and culture.
– Registered over 150 artisans for Artisan Cards in Pula Craft, supporting the preservation of traditional crafts.

Work in Himachal and Inspiration:

After completing my graduation from NIFT, New Delhi, I moved to Kullu in 2020 to explore new ideas with handloom weavers. Working closely with these artisans, I gained a deep understanding of the craft process and witnessed their dedication to preserving traditions. The pandemic highlighted the importance of caring and preserving our cultures and traditions, motivating me to connect with artisans and create purposeful products. Drawing from my design background and experience, I collaborated with rural communities, documented craft processes, and emphasized the value of handmade items. Building trust with artisans, I encouraged them to experiment and embrace new designs. Currently, I work with artisans across Himachal, promoting government schemes and upgrading their products to meet global standards.

Challenges Faced:

One of the main challenges I encountered was convincing traditional artisans to explore new directions and experiment with their crafts. Their loyalty to tradition often made them hesitant to deviate from the usual methods. However, with persistence and trust-building, I was able to persuade them to embrace new ideas, and they demonstrated remarkable skill in executing the work.

Akshita Sharma, a passionate designer and advocate of traditional crafts. (Express Photo)

Design Philosophy:

My design philosophy revolves around sustainability and circularity. I strive to create pieces that benefit both the communities involved in their creation and the environment. By fostering creative curiosity and employing lateral thinking, I challenge preconceived notions and seek unexpected collaborations. The pandemic has taught me to embrace uncertainty and explore stories and traditions that inspire new ideas.

Future Plans:

My experiences with Himachal’s arts and crafts have revealed their immense potential. I am dedicated to documenting, researching, and uplifting these crafts and techniques. Alongside this, I am working towards establishing my own brand, collaborating with talented craft embroiderers, weavers, and artisans to create exclusive products that blend traditional aesthetics with urban lifestyles, while prioritizing sustainability. Additionally, I am exploring the integration of craft into the realms of AI and VR, partnering with NFT artists to associate exclusive pieces with handmade products. I aim to launch the label by the end of the year.