The Art of Moulding
“To appreciate the beauty of any handicraft, one must not just see at the craft as the product but the craft as an embodiment of human creativity and human labour.”The Art of Moulding
Digital publication of a student document. For private circulation only.Fashion Communication department2018National Institute of Fashion Technology, Bengaluru, IndiaAll rights are reserved. No part of this book, either text or illustration, may be used or reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher.Designed by,Sakshi KumariGuided by,Sanjeev C M
CERTIFICATEThis is to certify that the presented document is a record of work done by the students; Nandini Khetan, Navyata Gali, Riya Kanaujia, Twinkle Pahwa and Sakshi Kumari of B.Des, Fashion Communication department during the month of June 2018 before the commencement of 5th semester as a group work and does not form the base for any previous work.PLACE: BengaluruDATE:Under the GuidanceSanjeev CMFacultyDepartment of Fashion CommunicationNational Institute of Fashion TechnologyBangalore - 560102
We take this moment to thank the National institute of Fashion Technology to have given this opportunity of undertaking a craft documentation project, as part of our curriculum. We would like to express our special gratitude towards CM Sanjeev for his constant guidance and supervision as well as Lordson Shivakumar for providing us with the necessary information about the project.We are forever indebted to the artisans of the craft cluster for their valuable information and kind cooperation, without which this documentation would never have been possible.We would further like to extend our sincere thanks to our friends and family for their kind support in developing this project, and all the people who have willingly helped us out with their abilities.ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
CONTENTSPrefaceFocus of studyObjectivesResearch MethodologyIntroductionKarnataka1. TEACHING THE ART OF FORMING: THE CREATERS THEMSELVES• Workshop• Day 1• Day 2• Day 32. THE SMELL THAT REMAINS ROOTED: BEHOLDS STORIES• Bettanahalasuru• Demographics• Living Conditions3. WHERE THE SHAPE IS FORMED: STORIES WHICH ARE INGRAINED• Pottery Town• Demographics• Living Conditions4. THE ARTISTS OF OUR NATION: FROM THE ROOTS ITSELF• Pottery• Potters• History• Creating the Model• TechniquesThe Art of Moulding
5. THE JOURNEY OF THE MAKING: FROM CLAY TO FORM• Tools• Process» centering» Opening» Shaping» Transforming» Polishing and Decorating» Embellishments» Drying» Burning6. VENDING THEIR HANDINESS: SKILLS FOR TRADE• Working of the Artisans• Marketing Products7. BEYOND CRAFT, BEYOND CULTURE: STORIES FROM THE HOME WHERE THE HANDS CREATE THE FORM• InterviewsFeature of the Indian Clay Pottery IndustryChallenges faced by the ArtisansSWOT AnalysisIntension for ImprovementThe Future of Potters in IndiaOur ExperienceConclusionGlossaryBibliography
iThe craft cluster initiative of nift is a project undertaken in order to boost and enhance the crafts of india. For which the students are left to explore, learn and research any craft of india. This gives them the opportunity the to learn the working knowledge of the traditional crafts, it’s techniques, design process and manufacturing process followed since ages. The main objective of this book is to share our experiences and learnings from the craft cluster and to give insights to reader about the beautiful craft of detailing and intimacy. Moreover, an attempt is made to bring the notice of the young minds to look more into limitations and criteria for designing a product which can sell itself in the market for a longer time period.PREFACEThe Art of Moulding
iiThe diyas that we have grown up seeing as an integral part of almost all Hindu festivals, the traditional feel associated with pottery as well as the intricate craftmanship of the cluster inspired us towards knowing more about this craft. The main focus of our study intends to be the material itself, its journey, from raw to final product, as well as the way that it is processed at the various stages before its final outcome.A few other important aspects of our study include the history behind this craft, its origin and the communities which continue practicing this craft as part of their livelihood. The recent evolution in the product range as well as a market study of where all it is sold and exported also is a potential area of introspection as part of our craft documentation.Getting a basic understanding of the culture as part of this study is a key factor to be able to experience their livelihood to some extent and the relevance of the craft in this region. Our intention as part of preserving this craft will be to get an in-depth understanding of what meaning the craft holds for the craftsperson, so as to create awareness amongst a larger audience, such that they value it as much as the craftsperson would.FOCUS OF STUDY
iiiPHASE 1To study the historical background of the craft and place where its practiced.1. To study history of Bettanahalasuru.2. To study the history of pottery.3. To study different techniques used by the artisans..4. To study factors affecting pottery:• Aesthetical• Cultural• Historical• Psychological• Sociological• Socio-economicPHASE 2To conduct an ethnographic study of the Pottery cluster of Bettanahalasuru.1. To study the technique, production process and product details.2. To study the relationship between pottery and artisans.3. To study the socio economic conditions of the artisans.4. To study the retail chain in market.5. To study the government initiatives for pottery (if any).PHASE 3To analyse and present a comparative data.1. To find the relationship between market, entrepreneur and artisans.2. Market analysis of tools and hand techniques.3. To conduct SWOT analysis.OBJECTIVESThe Art of Moulding
ivRESEARCH METHODLOGYThe craft study started with a four days pottery workshop conducted at our campus from 28th to 31st of May, 2018. Then we headed to meet potters of Bettanahallasuru. DATA COLLECTIONPRIMARY DATAETHNOGRAPHIC RESEARCHVisual Data• Photos• ObservationsQualitative and Quantitative Data• Interview• Open ended conversation• Questionaire• Field notes• Market researchSECONDARY DATA • Internet• Documents• Reports• Research Papers• BooksMETHODOLOGICALTRIANGULATIONANALYSISDATA COLLECTIONPHASE 1To study the historical background of the craft and the cluster.AREA IDENTIFICATIONWhen and where to conduct the researchPHASE 2To conduct an ethnographic study of the cluster.PHASE 1To analyse the study and present a comparative data.
01Acraft is a profession that requires particular skills and knowledge of skilled work. It is a discipline and practice distinct from art and design. The aim of craft research is to advocate and promote current and emergent craft research including research into materials, processes, methods, concepts, aesthetics and style. This may be in any discipline area of the applied arts and crafts including craft education.India is a land of immense variety. The range and diversity of Indian crafts is staggering. Indian handicrafts are a storehouse of classical motifs and patterns that have evolved over centuries, many of which have been passed on from trading cultures over eons of interactions. The tradition of crafts in India is grown around religious values, needs of the common people and also the needs of the ruling elites. The craft traditions in India have withstood the depredation of time and several foreign invasions and continued to flourish till date. Handicraft industry has shown tremendous potential for growth. Handicrafts are a source of livelihood to a large number of people in India and specially the rural sector. This sector often provides part time employment to rural women who traditionally practice the craft.Pottery being symbolic plays an important role. A great part of the history of pottery is prehistoric, part of past pre-literate cultures. Indians are known for their magnificent workmanship and have produced the most beautiful pottery wares, yet preserved and exhibited in many of the Indian museums. The art of pottery has evolved through the process of shaping. Each Indian state is unique by itself as far as pottery wares and its variegated designs are concerned. This is mainly because of the difference in the culture and the people, the availability of raw material, plasticity of the clay, influence of ecology, customs, festivals, deity, occupation, skill, likes and flare for various motifs, techniques of shaping and the chemical processes which result into the finished product. Clay ware takes on varying physical characteristics during the making of pottery.INTRODUCTIONThe Art of Moulding
02The arts and crafts of Karnataka is traditional. They have evolved through ages from one generation to another. If one has ever visited a handicraft village in the state of Karnataka, they will be stunned at the sight of the villagers who always sit in groups and enjoy their work.The arts and crafts of Karnataka includes the works on various objects such as woods, ivory, stones, sandalwood, metals and so on. Ivory art is typical to the state and is so unique that the objects of ivory art have been preserved in the museums outside the country as well.The arts and crafts of Karnataka is popular for the toys made of wood as well as of leather. Such toys include the puppets as well. The works of wood especially the rosewood and the sandalwood are a delight to the tourists. The Mysore paintings probably need no introduction. They are famous all over the world.Pottery is another craft which has gained popularity in Karnataka and in the southern India over theses years. It has maintained its traditional as well as commercial value. Food cooked in the pottery is considered good for health. Red clay is commonly used in designing images of gods and goddesses, animal shapes and flower pots and many other articles.KARNATAKA
TEACHING THE ART OF FORMINGTHE CREATERS THEMSELVES
05Fig: Artisans lighting the lamp before starting the workshop
06Our learning process included not only attending the two-day workshop at our college campus and visiting the houses of craftsmen in Bettanahalasuru, but also getting a hands on experience with the tools and processes involved in Pottery. From collecting the clay from Betthali (a nearby river) in Bettanahalasuru to burning the final product , each process was described very precisely by the artisans. We even made our very own stylised products under the guidance of Mr. Roy, a pottery master, who came to our college with his team, all experts in the field of pottery. We keenly observed the way he was demonstrating the method of making a simple diya. From introducing the history of pottery to telling his own stories in this field, Mr. Roy taught us a great deal in Pottery. We all were stunned and surprised to see with how ease he moves his fingers into the clay and made such awe-struck design. We even learned how to dough the clay to get a perfect blend for the final product. In the workshop we were also introduced to pottery wheel, we learned how to make vase, glass, money bank and many more with the help of Mr. Roy and his team.WORKSHOP
07Fig: Artsian shaping clay in form of human headDAY 1
08In India any good work or occassion starts with lighting diyas, our faculties did the same, we started the day with joyous feeling, Mr. Roy with his experts came to teach us the basic of pottery. Mr.Roy in his mid 60s, was very enthusiastic to help us learn how to dough the clay, the amount of water required to do so. Just taking a handful of clay and moulding it into a bird, that was our first lesson in pottery. And then telling us about the history and origin of pottery. Our first day of the workshop went pretty well in introduction and the very basic.
09From day 1 we all took some or the other information or technique to work with clay, its not easy as it seems. We each were given a big ball of clay, to dough and make it flat with the help of roller-pin and then to start with our own creation. All the creative minds were seen unfolding, some made a picturesque scenery, while others tried their hands on a more three dimensional objects. Mr. Roy and his team was always their to help and guide, at the end of day 2 all were happy and satisfied with the work.DAY 2Fig: The complete form with detailed features
10Fig: Artisan demonstrating ‘quilling’ technique
11Fig: Artsian shaping the vase
12From day 1 there were several pottery wheels kept aside, we all were curious to know why haven’t we started with it, and finally on day 3 we started off with pottery wheels. Mr. Roy was their to give the demonstration, just watching the clay take a shape of a pot made everyone awestruck, it was like the fingers was playing their own tune. Then soon there was laughter and giggles in the oval because everyone was enjoying themselves and made pretty funny shapes (which was not even close to a pot). And soon with some guidance and patience we all started making some or other product like small vases, glass, money bank etc.Fig: Students getting their hands on potter’s wheelDAY 3
13Fig: Student trying to center the clay
14Fig: Student shaping the clay on the wheel
00THE SMELL THATREMAINS ROOTEDBEHOLDS STORIES
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17Fig: The village: BettanahalsuruBETTANAHALASURU
18From Bettanahalasuru of North Bangalore, traditional pottery artisans those who are performing clay craft for generations were chosen for the study. There were 100 families in village practicing this craft. The livelihood of those families largely depends on pottery industry. Among them, all the families with younger generation artisans were also taken for study. Census method was used for the study. The entire artisans from family was contacted to find out the socio economic condition of them, working condition of the society, governance, and societies contribution towards the artisans improvement were analyzed by focused group discussion and interview and made necessary analysis and interpretation.
19LOCATION:Bettahalasur village is located in North Tehsil of Bangalore district in Karnataka, India.TOTAL AREA:The total geographical area of village is 598.25 hectares.ROADWAYS:Kanakapura is the nearest town to Halasuru. It is connected by roadways and is 18 kms away.BUS STOPS:The nearest bus stop is Sonapanahalli Bus Stop.AIRPORT:Kempegowda International Airport, KIAL Rd, Devanahalli, BengaluruRAILWAY STATION:Nelamangala - Majestic Service RoadYeshwanthpur Industrial Area, Phase -1 (25.5 km away)DEMOGRAPHICS
20ATMs:Bank of India HOSPITALS:There are no hospitals in this villageTEMPLES:Anjaneya TempleMuthyalamma TempleSri Anjaneya Swamey TempleSCHOOLS:Sai Vidyamandira SchoolGMPS Bettahalasur SchoolCOLLEGES:No such college in the vicinityOTHER AMENITIES:Anganwadi centre, ASHA, Birth & Death registration office, Daily News Paper and Polling station are there in the village.INTERNET CENTRE:There is no Internet Centre in less than 10 km.
21Bettanahalasur is census town in Bangalore Urban district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the 199 villages of Bangalore North Block of Bengaluru district.POPULATION:The village has a population of about 3097 persons living in around 725 households according to the census 2011.Total Population - 3573Male Population- 1817Female Population- 1756LIVING CONDITIONSPeople here are living in claustrophobic conditions, having narrow passages and lanes. The society is not very clean. Most of the people here practice pottery and supply the products to sellers instead of directly selling them in the market. Some of the families own pets like cows, goats and dogs. The workers are not very well equipped with today’s technology.RELIGIOUS BELIEFSA devils’ face can be usyually found hanged outside nearly every house and shop, which is believed to keep the negative energies away. Females put a tika and also adorn their hair with jasmine flowers. Women are also found wearing anklets of silver. Photographs of hindu gods and goddess can be seen hung on the walls inside every working space.AGRICULTURERagi, Paddy, Grapes and Mulberry are agricultural commodities that is grown in this village. Total irrigated area in this village is 32.81 hectares. Tube wells are the major source of irrigation.WATER AND SANITATIONHand Pump and Tube Wells/Boreholes are other Drinking Water sources. Open Drainage System Available in this Village. There is no system to Collect garbage on street. Drain water is discharged directly into water bodies.POLITICSJD(S) , BJP , INC are the major political parties in this area.LIVING CONDITIONS
22Fig: Lifestyle of people in Bettanahalasuru
00WHERE THE SHAPE IS FORMEDSTORIES WHICH ARE INGRAINED
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25Ipiet, non et offictatibus accatem landitatius, adissitae ius et velibus andioria seque nonseriat quiatquam, ium sitibus eos voluptatem.POTTERY TOWN
26Pottery Town is a small lane in Shivaji Nagar, Bangalore where one can buy pottery products for a very less price. Pottery Town is actually centrally located and hence easy to reach. It is an old place in Bangalore where people from decades have been into the skill of pottery making. There is always a high demand of pottery, specially during festivals, the potters make traditional clay lamps and less demand during monsoons.
27LOCATION:Bettahalasur village is located in North Tehsil of Bangalore district in Karnataka, India.TOTAL AREA:The total geographical area of village is 598.25 hectares.ROADWAYS:Yelahanka, Bommanahalli, Krishnarajapura, Kengeri , Hosakote, Dasarahalli, Devanahalli, Dod Ballapur, Magadi, Nelamangala are connected to Pottery Town via roadways.BUS STOPS:CSI hospital bus stop (2.8 kms)AIRPORT:Kempegowda International Airport (32.3 kms)RAILWAY STATION:Bangalore Cant Railway Station (3.1kms)DEMOGRAPHICS
28ATMs:There is no ATM, commercial bank or cooperative bank in less than 10 km. HOSPITALS:Divine Speciality HospitalSantosh HospitalESI HospitalCorporation Maternity HomeTEMPLES:William Town Vel Murugan Temple (260 m)SCHOOLS:Featherlite SchoolExcellent English SchoolCOLLEGES:R.V. TutorialsFatima Teachers Training CollegeOTHER AMENITIES:Daily news paper vendors, Mechanic shops and Polling station are there in the village.INTERNET CENTRE:There is a few internet centres in the area.
29HISTORYThe origin of pottery town can be traced back to 300 years from now, coming from Tamil Nadu, Bellur district. There have been a total of 5 pottery towns till date. The first 3 pottery towns were set up by the Kings, who ruled over Bangalore.LIVING CONDITIONSPeople here are living in claustrophobic conditions, having narrow passages and lanes. The society is not very clean. Most of the people do not live in shops, they have their houses somewhere else. Some of the families own pets. The workers are well equipped with today’s technology, and can be seen using android phones, have televisions in nearly all houses and computers with internet facilities. There is hardly any problem related to electricity.RELIGIOUS BELIEFSA devils’ face can be usyually found hanged outside nearly every house and shop, which is believed to keep the negative energies away. Females put a tika and also adorn their hair with jasmine flowers. Photographs of hindu gods and goddess can be seen hung inside every shop with bhajans playing in the background.HEALTHGood health facilities are available in the vicinity. Some of the hospitals in the neighbourhood are Santosh Hospital & Deewan Hospital. Pharmaceutical stores are also available for the residence of pottery town. They majorly face dust allergies due to their livelihoodEDUCATIONIn the previous generation majorly the females weren’t fully educated but the current scenario is such that the people have realised the importance of education and most of them send their kids to school. The nearest school observed in the area is the Featherlite Pottery Town Government High School. OTHER OCCUPATIONSPeople living on the main lane of the pottery town practice pottery making. Apart from pottery making other occupations that can be observed in the area are butcher’s shop, tyre repair shops, small grocery stores, mattress sellers, small tea stalls etc.LIVING CONDITIONS
30Fig Life style of people at Pottery Town market
00THE ARTISTS OF OUR NATIONFROM THE ROOTS ITSELF
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Fig: Artisan using her figure to shape the clay
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35Pottery is the ceramic material which makes up pottery wares, of which major types include earthenware, stoneware and porcelain. The place where such wares are made by a potter is also called a pottery (plural “potteries”).Pottery is clay that is modeled, dried, and fired, usually with a glaze or finish, into a vessel or decorative object. Clay is a natural product dug from the earth, which has decomposed from rock within the earth’s crust for millions of years. Decomposition occurs when water erodes the rock, breaks it down, and deposits them. It is important to note that a clay body is not the same thing as clay. Clay bodies are clay mixed with additives that give the clay different properties when worked and fired; thus pottery is not made from raw clay but a mixture of clay and other materials.POTTERY
36Fig: Artisan using her figure to shape the clay
37Fig: Artisan creating a vase