Abhishek Jain

Artisan Organization: Abhishek Jain

Country: India

"I come from the beautiful city of Jaipur in Rajasthan, also known as the 'Pink City' of India.

"During my childhood, there were a several handicraft artisans in my neighborhood. Their creativity and the beauty of their arts and crafts fascinated me. As I grew up, my urge to know more about these arts and crafts was so immense that I started learning from the artisans in my neighborhood. They make mostly tapestries and bedspreads. After graduation from school in Jaipur, I took a job at a textile company. But the inclination to do something creative brought me to the world of crafts.

"I'm a hardworking and dedicated person. I am very passionate about my work. After I mastered the craft of creating beautiful tapestries, I set up my own workshop in 2010 with a small team of five assistants. A lot of practice and dedication is required in this work. I usually do the designing, while my team does the crafting although I monitor and assist them.

"My neighbors are still my main source of inspiration. I am also greatly inspired by nature and the beauty of Mughal architecture. We use cotton fabric for all the tapestries. We process raw fabrics before beginning the silk-screen printing. Our colors are mainly organic dyes. The desire to create new designs every day is quite challenging but we work together enthusiastically to create beautiful designs. We often create traditional designs to preserve the rich heritage of India.

"I also teach my co-workers whatever knowledge I have, and would love to teach this art to anyone who is keen to learn about it. Working with me gives an opportunity of employment for my team. They are able to provide a stable life to their families and provide an education to their children.""