Handlooms Exhibition to Open in Delhi from August 6

Curated by Sreyansi Singh, the exhibition brings together contemporary textile artists, designers and craft collectives whose work expands the understanding of handlooms beyond their material form. Through research-driven pieces, artist–artisan collaborations and immersive installations, it examines the social, historical and cultural contexts of textile-making while highlighting experimentation, interdisciplinary approaches and new ways of engaging with craft traditions.

Textiles Secretary Neelam Shami Rao will be the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony, which will also be attended by senior officials from the Handlooms Department.

Participating practitioners and groups include Aadyam Handwoven, Abraham & Thakore, Astha Butail, Boito, Chanakya School, Coonoor & Co., Jagrity Phukan, Jayeeta Chatterjee, Kardo, Morii, Neeraj Patel, Porgai Artisans Association, Shradha Kochhar, Shrujan, Studio Medium, Ujjal Dey and 23 N 69 E. Several of the artists are supported by leading galleries and cultural institutions, reflecting a growing dialogue between contemporary art and craft.

The exhibition aims to foster greater appreciation of contemporary textile practice by presenting cloth as a medium of knowledge, cultural memory and creative expression. By bringing together artists, designers, artisans and craft collectives, it seeks to encourage discussion on the evolving role of textiles in questions of identity, sustainability, community and material culture.

Officials described the show as a celebration of the intersections between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary artistic practice. Visitors will encounter works that both honour handloom heritage and explore innovative directions within the medium.

The event offers an opportunity for the public to engage with current thinking around handlooms at a time when the sector continues to balance preservation of traditional skills with new forms of creative and commercial relevance.