Hand-Painted Floral Soapstone Elephant Figurine from India - Elephant Salute

Artisan Organization: Sanjay Garg

Country: India

“I am Sanjay Garg from Agra. Since childhood days, stone carving has been my hobby, as many of my relatives were involved in stone sculpting and marble inlay work. They encouraged me to learn the craft and also to do miniature painting on them. My brother, who also knew this craft, encouraged me to learn and pursue this art form.

“Mr. Rasik Lal and Brij Gopal Pal from Mathura taught me the process of miniature painting, and always encouraged me to enter the world of stone carving. I get my inspiration from Mughal miniature art. For example, to paint the intricacies of a Mughal battle is a tough challenge.

“I started my own workshop in 2000 with 1 artisan and my brother. Initially it was very difficult to find new artisans for this craft work. But now I have been able to bring together 15 new artisans who work with me in my workshop.

“Our main focus is to handcraft utility and decorative products along with sculptures. Our products include coaster sets, incense stick holders, pen holders, elephant statues, oil warmers, toothpick holders, pen stands, visiting card holders and candle holders. Every single product is made up of the finest quality raw material that we procure from trusted vendors. We craft our products with soapstone, alabaster and marble.

“We handcraft our products in such a way that they soothe the senses of the beholders. Our products are best known for their exclusivity and exquisiteness. Quality is our forte, and we never compromise with that. We have an experienced quality auditor, who checks the product’s quality thoroughly on several parameters. He makes sure that only the finest quality products are supplied from our end to our customers. The belief that customer satisfaction is as important as our products has helped us to garner a vast base of customers, which continues to grow each day.

“My artisans are like my family members. I wish to expand my team of artisans. It will provide them employment so that they can earn a decent livelihood, educate their children and live a comfortable life. I teach this art form to many boys and girls who love this art form and want to learn the detailing of this art.

“I wish to spread the beauty of this art to the whole world, because miniature painting is an ancient art and I want to preserve this art form. I also want to fulfill every customer’s demand. I hope that people love and appreciate my art and carvings all over the world. I was awarded with the State Award for Miniature Painting in 2013. I am thankful to you for giving me an opportunity to showcase my work to the whole world.”"