Mr Shantmanu, a commissioner in the Handicraft department at the Ministry of Textiles in Delhi, was among the guest speakers at a special event – held earlier this week at acclaimed designer Tom Dixon’s The Coal Office in London’s Kings Cross – to launch Ambiente 2019.
Fanfaring India as Ambiente’s eighth consecutive ‘partner’ country, Mr Shantmanu confirmed that handicrafts have always been the backbone of the country’s long history.
“India has 1.3bn inhabitants, of which 10m are artisans,” he explained. “Today, some 20% are connected to global suppliers, with the majority of products still being handmade.”
He continued: “At Ambiente in February, we will be showing items that were made in the past, as well as handicrafted, handmade products of today, and those from emerging craft entrepreneurs. We will also be bringing over many artisans to the show, who will be demonstrating their work ‘live’ throughout the exhibition.”
Ambiente’s vice president, Nicolette Naumann, confirmed that Jaipur furniture designer Ayush Kasliwal has been appointed as the creative maestro behind India’s special feature in 2019, where he will be demonstrating the importance of traditional craftsmanship. The presentation, which will cover a wide range of products by traditional artisans, will be reflecting a deep understanding of mythology, architecture and culture with a contemporary aesthetic.
The first section, Timeless and Handmade, will celebrate products with everyday designs, including several authentic, classic originals. Other handmade products in this section have been developed to meet the expectations of today’s international audience. The second section of the presentation will focus on both established and emerging craft entrepreneurs, representing artisan communities and related organisations.
“Both presentations will complement each other,” confirmed Nicolette.
Ayush will be working with design colleague Sandeep Sangaru, who will be creating a pop up restaurant based around bamboo. “It will have a night, skyline feel with visitors invited to picnic under a canopy of stars,” explained Nicolette.
“In addition, we will be holding a special evening at the show in honour of our partner country. India is our third largest exhibitor, with manufacturers able to deliver handmade product via containers in two months, which has transformed handmade production.”
*Tom Dixon, OBE, will be returning to Hall 4.1 at Ambiente where he will be showcasing lighting, furniture and decorative home accessories, all of which can be found in his newly opened gift and lifestyle store, Tom Dixon Shop London, at Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross.
Ambiente takes place at Frankfurt am Main from February 8-12, 2019.
Visit www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com
Top: Ambiente’s ‘partner’ country in 2019 will be India.
