Learnings from the Revival of Tribal Crafts Practices

Session 2 summary

Learnings from the Abode of Clouds: Khasi, Jaintia and Garo Tribes

The Brand

Dak_ti presents a unique range of hand-crafted products made from natural materials; these products are handmade impressions of our artistic expressions. Dak_ti strives to preserve traditional art forms by bringing local craftsmen and artisans together with creative professionals to bring about innovation in design and craftsmanship. Dak_ti products are fully handed handcrafted so everything we create is unique. At Dak_ti we work towards design minimalism, emphasis on recycling, avoidance of waste in production and packaging, creating a geographical identification for the products. The name Dak_Ti is derived from Khasi- a language spoken in Meghalaya, that can be interpreted as- Impressions of the hand (or) To protect the hand (or) handmade. https://www.facebook.com/Dakticraft

History

The idea of Dak_ti craft came about in 2010 when designers Rida Gatphoh and Peter Marbaniang travelled to different craft clusters across Meghalaya to conduct design workshops with the local artisans. The abundant skill and natural raw-material in the state posed a pressing opportunity- to create handcrafted products using natural materials by sustainable means. Thus, they worked independently in mapping the different crafts and identifying artisans and craftsmen to work with materials like clay, bamboo, cane, pineapple fiber and other resources available locally.

Since 2012 the team of three designers including Navackotti have exhibited the products and represented these crafts and artisans from Meghalaya across the country. By 2014 the team catered to stores directly with exclusive range of products under the label Dak_ti in an endeavor to promote sustainability through arts and crafts. The products are available in select stores in Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi and Goa.  In 2015 the team travelled these cities with their event: Earthy a Fair – Food, Music, Arts and Crafts from Meghalaya creating a platform for local designers, musicians, chefs, craftsmen to connect with the world outside.

Our Process

We believe in creating a sustainable working eco-system where the gifts of nature and the human skill are nurtured in a responsible manner.

No Hurry:  Our production is seasonal and we work around natures patterns.
No Worry: We believe that everything we require is around us so all our raw-materials are sourced locally.
No More: We make a limited range of every collection so we can live in harmony with nature.
No Other: Since our process is mostly natural and handmade each Dak_Ti product is unique. 
No Frills: We believe in simplicity in everything we do including our packaging and publicity.
No Big Deal: Yes, we believe that everything comes at a cost and one should pay a fair price.

Design Approach And Production

Dak_Ti products are distinct for their simplicity in design and for creating a natural experience and the same can be said about our design approach. Along with creating a functional product we try to pass along some values or a tradition. All products have natural colors and textures.

The Dak_ti production model is based on collaboration with the idea of coexisting in harmony with nature. Dak_ti is a platform for various master craftsmen across the state of Meghalaya to innovate and to showcase their skills while making a livelihood.

Dak_ti Studio – Conceive, Create, Celebrate

Our studio is Dak_ti’s production unit situated in a farm on the hills of Ri-Bhoi district. The studio is nestled in a natural environment, closer to natural resources, making it appropriate for the craftsmen and artisan to work. The studio has three main functions:

• Sharing and imparting knowledge
• Practicing and enhancing skill
• Celebrating the arts and crafts

Activities

• Sampling unit (Training area, Material study, design & development studio)
• Washing & Firing unit (Kiln, smoking chamber, washing area)
• Storage unit (raw materials, finished goods)
• Workshop (Tools area, machinery area)
• Finishing unit (Packaging area, Operations area)
• Living unit (bed, bath, kitchen, dining)