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Inspired French Designer writes a book on Indian Craft and craftsmen

New Delhi, November 07, 2006

Art has many forms and an artist many formations. Textile is one of the most blooming and persistent trades in India. It has not only gifted new trends and fashions to people everywhere but has also brought livelihood and knowledge of widespread cultures under one umbrella.

The talent and prodigy of Indian craftsmen have attracted hoards of designers from centuries and bind them in the thread of creativity for the rest of their lives. The same love brings Berenice Ellena, clothes and costume designer, Paris and now an author of a book ‘India Sutra’ to this land.

India Sutra is a tribute to the skills of Indian craftsmen, and offers a discovery of textile routes in today’s India. The book depicts the hard work and slogging in workshops where day after day the canvas of the future is woven with fervour and enumerates useful techniques in making this formidable task enjoyable and worth it.

While showcasing her designs, Berenice said “Clothes are our second skin. They provide us protection from the outside world and affect the behaviour of people around us. Clothes if offending can create tension, if beautifully made can attract attention”.

Welcoming her visit to the country, Ambassador of France, Mr. Dominique Girard appreciated her efforts and said this book on the works and achievements of Indian craftspeople is her own unusual way of weaving &  strengthening Indo-French relations. “This book will not only find a place in country’s bookshelves but also on the line of renowned Indian publishers” said the ambassador.

It is a tool for designers and textile lovers, presenting all types of weaves and decorative techniques. It leads the reader from the material and reality towards myth and ritual, and yet presents the advantages of a practical guidebook. It includes reliable maps, a comprehensive address book, and as such is an excellent repertoire of adventures outside and around India.

Thus a book which is away from boring monologue and a guide for practical application is a recipe not only for splendid designs but also for sure-shot results.

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