KASHMIR’S PASHMINA SHAWLS

ChinmayaIAS Academy - Current Affairs January 28, 2023 GS3, Indian Economy Leave a comment 242 Views

Kashmir’s famed pashmina shawls, known for centuries for their intricate buta or paisley patterns, got a French touch this week.
Artist Maximilien Pellet turned the fabric into a canvas for contemporary art forms at a Parisian exhibition, in a rare bid to cater to Western sensibilities.
Mujtaba Qadri, owner of the label Me&K, introduced the pashmina shawls with modern art during the Maison & Objet exhibition held in Paris between January 19-23.
“Pashmina — or cashmere as it’s called in the West — is a fabric loved and respected the world over.
That said, very few people are aware of the role Kashmir played in this legacy. Instead of restricting its usage and aesthetics within small elite circles, I wanted to give pashmina a more global flavour, infusing modernity and minimalism through the artist’s signature,” he told The Hindu.
The transformation, where the shawls were adorned with abstract paintings rather than embroidery, has re-introduced the fabric with new-age aesthetics.
“The effort was one of a kind, taking art into utility and beyond,” said Mr. Qadri, whose shawls evoked curiosity among fashion aficionados and locals.
The French artist Mr. Pellet described the art fusion with the Kashmir industry as an “honour” for his designs.
“I am more and more interested in the variation of my work with different techniques and different supports in order to break the border between art and design.
When I have the opportunity to work in collaboration with quality craftsmen, it is an honour for my designs,” Mr. Pellet told The Hindu.
Pellet has been tracking the craft industry of Kashmir. “I was able to understand all the different stages of the work done by hand. It represents a real fascination. I have the impression that it is another relationship to time,” he said.