Founder’s Note
The vibrancy in the traditional Indian textiles had always been attributed to diversity, with each region bringing their own colors, patterns, and techniques. A further extension of this was seen in modern times, as many found contemporary and sustainable means to contribute to the handloom and handicraft industry. Each expansive and diverse aspect, be it old or new, durable or innovative, experimental or a perfection of traditional techniques, brought in its own beauty and made it more exuberant, inclusive, and relevant to changing times.
Handlooms and handicrafts provided access to a rich lineage that tapped into the heritage and culture of different regions across India, while digital intervention helped it stay relevant and visible in the modern fast-paced world. Using digital tools to help enrich designing, presenting, and preserving time-tested techniques proved to be a wonderful contemporary addition to traditional arts and crafts.
This vibrant context of traditional Indian textiles, rich in diversity and regional uniqueness, set the stage for the launch of the Digital Artisans of India Award 2023-24 by the Digital Empowerment Foundation and Digikargha, in collaboration with Creative Dignity. As artisans and weavers increasingly embraced contemporary and sustainable methods to enhance the handloom and handicraft industry, their work became more exuberant, inclusive, and relevant to modern times. Handlooms and handicrafts provided access to a rich cultural heritage, while digital interventions helped preserve and elevate these timeless crafts in today’s fast-paced world. This book is to recognise artisans and organisations of India who had used digital tools and digital media to break traditional barriers and achieve higher excellence in presenting art, making Indian artistry entrepreneurial and profitable, and in making Indian art and artisans reach national and global audiences
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