हाथ से/Haath Se (handmade) was a project that aims to spread various traditional Indian folk-art within the local community of Leeds; primarily focusing on working with elderly people. It aims to shift opinions, strives to express and create community through creativity. It is also trying to ensure that tradition is not forgotten but appreciated and actively remembered through practice regardless of where or by whom. It is facilitated by artist Natasha Joseph. 

 

The various art forms are Madhubani- an intricate form of folk painting originating from Bihar, India. Bandhani- an ancient form of traditional Indian tie-dye that is still a very popular part of the handicraft industry in India. Warli, an indigenous tribal form of painting on clay and mud walls to depict daily life, which was reimagined onto clay slabs. The final art form, Rangoli- a design created on the floor of an entrance of a house as a sign of good luck. Rangolis are made during festivals and auspicious events in India and are usually created using coloured rice, coloured sand or flower petals.

 

These various pieces of work have been produced over a span of weeks by members of Bramley Elderly Action and OWLS, Headingly over a series of workshops and this exhibition will celebrate and showcase their work.