Keeping in line with the tradition of showcasing its rich handicrafts and art forms
to the world of buyers and art lovers, the Gujarat Pavilion, this time, at the India
International Trade Fair (IITF) 2011 displayed the magic of its gifted artisans,
(many internationally recognized), with a three-dimensional effect for millions
of spectators.
The Pavilion was divided into sections displaying the 3-D models of traditional
Gujarati dwellings decorated with the prevalent art forms and handicrafts. A small
replica of Bhunga (typical hut in the remote area of Kutch district) with a courtyard
(aangan) was designed where models of working artisans were shown making handloom
products. A bamboo house displaying furniture items made of bamboo depicting the
lives and skills of the tribal areas of Gujarat was one of the interesting parts
in the Pavilion.
Gujarat has an array a rich variety of crafts. Its embroidery, bead work, wood crafts,
printed and woven clothes, pottery, metal work, and tribal art are expression of
the folklore and festivals. The exclusive range of these works of craftsmen and
woven imbued with the social and cultural hue of the region they have sprung are
original in nature and craftsmanship. Today, far moved from the hut or the village
of the craftsman, pieces of handicrafts come to adorn the houses of the elite, the
five star hotels both at home and abroad. All these rich handlooms and handicrafts
items displayed at Gujarat Pavilion were made available at reasonable rates from
direct artisans to the visitors of IITF 2011.
The exterior of the Pavilion designed like a traditional Haveli of Gujarat having
Jharokhas (windows) with beautiful carvings besides attractive mud work, mirror
work, murals and the splash of Khadi paintings done on the walls of the Haveli rejuvenated
the magic of Gujarati splendor.
The central area of the Pavilion was devoted to a Craft Bazaar (Haat) with 3-D model
of various artisans such as pot maker, metal work artisan, bamboo work artist etc
at work.
A separate section highlighted the replica of the Dholavira village -- an ancient
civilization of the Indus Valley -- with the help of three-dimensional effects.
The upper portion of Gujarat Pavilion with more than 40 stalls for display and sale
handicrafts and handloom products of Gujarat attracted visitors both from India
and abroad. Artisans gave demonstrations of different types of embroidery and rabari
work (patch work), Rogan Art, Mutwa Work etc. Renowned artist showcased their exuberant
collection of dress material, ladies accessories, footwear and Lac bangles - Just
to name a few.
Some of the most popular designs and patterns of handloom and embroidery items such
as Patan ka Patola, wall hangings, chakla, wooden carvings, leather toys, , metal
work, stone work and imitation jewellery also attracted thousands of visitors to
the Gujarat Pavilion.
In addition, several handloom and handicraft items of the State viz. Bandhani, Rabari
work, patch work, mirror work, and several other items with a brief write up on
each of these have also been displayed. Outside the pavilion, large images of attractive
tourist destinations in Gujarat viz. Gir Lions, sanctuary, Gandhi Ashram, famous
monuments and palaces, were also displayed.
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