Social enterprise: Exhibition that aims to aid rural women in India

The collection has been created from recycled material.

ISLAMABAD:

Bright splashes of eco-friendly fashion that come with the satisfaction of contributing to socio-economic development, is what is unique about a two-day exhibition that started at the Nomad Gallery on Saturday.

The work that is being displayed has been put together by “House of Wandering Silk”, a social enterprise that seeks to create sustainability for the rural women of India while staying eco-friendly. Based in New Delhi, the enterprise uses hand-woven cotton, pashmina and wool to create clothing, accessories and homewares that are embroidered and designed by rural women. The interesting fact is that nearly all the material used is recycled, such as used saris.

Looking at the scarves and throws one could never guess that the material is recycled as each piece is delicately hand-embroidered with the kantha stitch and the pieces are reversible. Mainly in rich hues of emerald green and fuschia pink, the throws are especially designed to last as each piece has been worked upon with layers to add thickness. “It looks so good when you drape it around, the colours stand out,” exclaimed an enthusiastic customer as she paired the colour of throws with her sofa set at home.

The throws and scarves create a perfect combination of indigenous yet modern look, as the embroidery meshes well with the bright prints and motifs. The prices ranges from Rs4,500 till Rs8,200 with the longer scarves slightly pricier than the rest. Although the prices may seem steep but curator of Nomad Gallery Nageen Hayat said these prices are set especially for the capital’s customers and are being sold at cheaper rates than those displayed on the website of House of Wandering Silk.

For those wishing to match their new throws with traditional furniture, the gallery is also showcasing handmade furniture that is crafted by internally displaced persons from Swat. The exhibition will end on Sunday, although the pieces will be stocked at the gallery till they are sold out.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 27^th, 2012.