Gold Winner of the Houzee Awards 2023
Architect / Designer:
Anjali Purohit
Studio:
Studio Variously
Country:
United States
Derived from the Hindi word ‘Laya’ which means intentful tempo combined with rhythmic pattern, mostly used in classical music, also a source of inspiration to my design & research process. These textiles are deeply rooted in ancient artisanal techniques that are collaborative in nature.
Passed from one hand to another since generations .Sense of harmony, rhythm and restfulness in this act of creation breathes
life into our textiles. It’s a wholistic cycle combining imagination , materials & techniques celebrated for making objects that matter.
This project includes custom designed pillows , throws and rug all handcrafts by small artisan cluster and families in India and Nepal.
All our manufacturing is pursued ethically by forging only direct partnership ( no middlemen/agents ) with artisan clusters who are experts in ancient techniques of weaving, dyeing, embroideries , all done exclusively by hand. All our artisan partnerships take place with on site visits, daily updates on productions, quality testing for dyes and yarns used in every piece manufactured. All products are shipped from our company based in Michigan to our buyer warehouse. The artisans we work with in different parts of India and Nepal are experts in their field , 3rd/4th generation master weavers, dyers whose skills and heritage stories need to be sustained. Majority of our artisans are women who are involved in processes of hand spinning, weaving, dyeing, finishing.
Between designing and manufacturing , a considerable amount of time in invested in researching unique techniques, developing swatches, testing and sourcing pure materials , exploring art forms. Collaborating & innovating with our artisans is key our process, instead of just replicating what already exists. This allows for improvisation both in design and skill sets, reviving and restoring the economic wellbeing , livelihood at ethical wages in their safe environments and making space for innovation in artisan based production methods and supply chain.
Studio Variously
Studio Variously is a sustainable design studio based in Michigan. We exclusively work with heritage master artisans of 3rd / 4th generation to create textile based collections for home goods & interiors. We believe that sustainability is a shared responsibility which is why we support Sustainable Design Goals set by United Nations in our design+manufacturing process. Studio Variously explores modern design elements by combining environment friendly materials & ancient techniques. We seek beauty in slow made textiles that bring people & their cultural stories together.