Hand Crafted Black Leather Sling Bag - Sing Softly in Black'

Artisan Organization: Anoop Rana

Country: India

"I'm Anoop Singh Rana, born in December of 1974. I am kind and compassionate by nature and am a creative person. I'm very hardworking and dream of uplifting and preserving the art and heritage of India.

"I have done post-graduation studies in leather designing in New Delhi. I worked for few years with Diesel fashion brand before deciding to start out on my own. Although it was very difficult initially, my creative skills helped me accomplish my goal, Today, I work with a team of artisans who help me craft my designs in my home.

"We often use recycled leather from belt makers and from the saddler industry.

"Our bracelets, bags and other designs are crafted and carved using hand tools and handmade dyes. We're able to achieve shapes that are similar to carved wood. We also using batik and tie-dye techniques using organic colors, natural gum and flour. We do embroidery work on leather using metal, glass beads and colorful threads. It gives me immense joy to work with vivid colors and complex creative methods to achieve beautiful results.

"I use and implement these techniques in a way to transform this ancient art into contemporary style. The most challenging part of this art is selling my work.

"I work with my family — my mother, father, brother, sister and a friend. My mother does the accounting, my brother looks after the production, my sister helps me in designing, and my friend takes care of marketing.

"This craft provides a livelihood to artisans who work with me as well as recognition in the local community. I also teach students how to use these skills to transform leather items into modern designs.

"My dream is to become a successful entrepreneur and preserve our art and heritage.""