Clock struck

Amruta and Soniya –both studied applied arts from Abhinav Arts College,Tilak road. “We first learnt the art of paper mache while working at Akanksha foundation two years ago. Back then we used to make pen stands and piggy banks only. However,we then thought of making products that will be useful and eco-friendly rather than just decorative items. That’s how we began with eco-friendly clocks,” says Soniya.

“Paper mache is our basic raw material,which we make at home by soaking pieces of paper in water for about 4 to 5 days. We then shape it as per the clock’s design,and paint with acrylic and oil colours,” said Soniya. They get the readymade clock mechanism and fit it to the clock. We buy the clock hands based on the clock’s design,says Amruta.

It was in August 2008 when they started their own ‘Kite Creations’ and displayed their clocks at an exhibition at Aperture India. “We had coupled our display with the screening of a short film titled ‘the story of stuff’ at this exhibition so that people are convinced that eco-friendly items are a better choice,” adds Amruta.

Since then there was no looking back. Amruta,who is a fine artist,never looked for a commercial job. On the other hand,Soniya,a major in graphic designing,quit her one-year stint with a corporate firm. Today,both of them work as art teachers with Akanksha Foundation and also conduct workshops or summer training camps for children.

A unique feature of Kite Creations is that the products are promoted only through exhibitions. “We have participated in at least five exhibition till date and the response is good. Unlike other artists,Amruta and Soniya are not worried about someone imitating their deigns. “We will never run out of ideas and will be happy of someone finds them worth copying,” they say.

The duo runs Kite Creations from their respective homes. “We get orders for Diwali,corporate gifts and individual orders as well. While each clock is different,we make identical ones only when we get bulk order for the same design,” Soniya adds. After the paper mache is ready,a clock is ready in half-a-day,she adds.

The weirdest clock designed was that like zara or frying spatula for the kitchen. They also make madhubani and warli designs for a more sober look. The clocks range between Rs 250 to Rs 800 depending on the design. According to them these clocks are not just eco-friendly,but also durable and can be wiped with a wet cloth.

“We are now planning to join some interior decorators. We are also researching on how we can increase our product base. We are happy that we can help the environment with art,” they say,signing off.