Shamji Vishram

Shamji is a graduate in Arts from Bhuj University. He is a weaver, designer and entrepreneur. He has worked with a range of new materials (like Tussar, Eri, Muga, Mulberry, Cotton), finer counts and has also experimented with the introduction of new products in the last ten years of his work. He is aware of the significance of natural dyes in the global scenario. Lately he has been grappling with the idea of how value additions in the Bhujodi products could bring about better wages to improve the economic stability of the weavers. He is of view that the setting up of many new industries in Kanchchh has resulted in innumerable job opportunities for common people and that the craftsmen are bound to resign the other means of income if their traditional skills do not fetch them adequate money to serve the needs of their families.

Shamji bhai's endeavor for the revival of lac dying is also based on his deep respect for traditional knowledge and skills. He has collected a range of old textiles from kachchh and draws inspiration from them for new design ideas.

Craft: Shawl Weaving

Method and Material:

Traditionally, the people of Gujarat wove rough thick dhablas (blankets) in black, brown, off-white with borders in black, red and ochre. These shawls were sometimes embroidered with intricate designs and mirrors were used in geometric patters. Now, the weavers are working with a range of new materials (like Tussar, Eri, Muga, Mulberry, Cotton) and also experimenting with the introduction of a new product range.