The Work of Artisans
Truck Art
The indigenous hand-painted floral patterns and poetic calligraphy that adorn trucks across South Asia has evolved into a distinct form of folk-art that reflects the visual dialect and rich culture of the region. The practice is believed to have origins in the lavishly decorated horse-driven chariots of the Mughal emperors, as well as the custom of adorning camels used for transportation with embellished fabrics of contrasting colors to brighten up long journeys. Today, this art form has evolved into a cultural symbol, capturing the imagination of designers across the globe. Our hand-crafted purses with their whimsical designs that burst into a kaleidoscope of colors, draw inspiration from this indigenous art form while paying homage to the vibrant culture of the region. Each purse is carefully handcrafted by a local Pakistani artisan with colorfully-ornamented patterns and murals to reflect a mosaic of cultural brilliance. SHOP...
Vegetable Dye
The exquisite art of printing on textiles using intricately hand-carved wooden blocks is believed to be one of ancient India's oldest art forms, passed down for generations within families and communities. Designs drawn on paper are first carved in to blocks of Indian Rosewood, and artisans then painstakingly dip the blocks into a rich vegetable dye and press them on to fabric to create a beautifully distressed look that cannot be replicated using machines. Each block, with its swirls and patterns, is unique. Our tablecloths are meticulously hand-printed by a family of artisans based in the outskirts of the ancient city of Lahore, one of Mughal India's cultural capitals. The intricate designs and recipes to create the vibrant colors have been passed down to the family through generations like cherished family heirlooms. By infusing traditional art with a contemporary spirit, we strive to keep the ancient art form alive. As our pieces are painstakingly hand-printed by artisans, the resulting subtle color and design variations make each tablecloth a unique work of art. Shop...
Suzani
Having originated in the bleak desert lands of the mystical Silk Route in Central Asia, where gardens and courtyards were cherished, Suzani art is typically hand-embroidered with floral motifs in vibrant silk thread. Using pomegranate blossoms, rosettes and vines in vivid colors, our Suzani collection captures the essence of this traditional art and pays tribute to the ancient trade route. Our collection blends contemporary clothing with the traditional art form using pieces of vintage Suzanis that have been beautifully handwoven by Uzbek artisans.
Jisti
Jisti artisans intricately manipulate a single stitch in numerous ways to create exquisitely detailed motifs, consequently creating different shades with the same colored silk floss. Our ethnic dresses are inspired by this ancient art form, and incorporate geometric and floral patterns used in Jisti embroidery. SHOP...
Embroidery
