The New Nation - Internet Edition

Sheikh Arif Bulbon

Our folklore traditions over the centuries have been enriched by many diverse cultures from near and far, choked with the flavours of the local artistic imaginations and craftsmanship. These flavours influenced us in various forms -clothing, handicrafts, furniture and even to decorative cooking adornment or ornamentation. Our six seasons have played their vital roles all along to pattern the folklore imaginations to their own distinct cordiality.

The women in various parts of the country have different styles of designing their 'Pitha' (cakes). Their ambition, dreams and imagination transformed into delicious cakes - designed with love and affection for their family, friends and neighbours. This tradition is a significant part of our culture.

To represent this phenomenon Kay Kraft, a boutique house, organised a dress exhibition titled 'Art of Tradition' with the motifs of 'Nakshi-pitha' to portray the rich cultural heritage of the country at Drik Gallery in Dhanmondi in the city.

The exhibition was inaugurated on August 17 and concluded on August 21. Eminent educationist Prof Anisuzzaman was present as chief guest at the function, while 'Master Craftsman' awarded for 'Nakshi-pitha' Shamsunnahar was present as special guest on the occasion.

The exhibition was expected to be of an interest to fashion conscious people, keen on folklore appreciation and research, fashion designers of today and tomorrow.

Fashion designer Chandra Shekhar Shaha said, "The Kay Kraft design studio has been developing a line of clothes over the last five months, using the 'Nakshi-pitha' as motif. The various styling and decorative designing of the 'Nakshi-pitha' reflecting on this line-up were presented in the exhibition."

Khalid Mahmud Khan of Kay Kraft said, "Kay Kraft has remained devoted to presenting our abundant cultural or traditional charms, through exhibitions, seasonal festivals and using their own creativity to portray them with their designing. As always, bringing the rural and urban closer together - either through fusion or presenting them to each other."

A larger segment of the Kay Kraft clientele are the young in heart generation of the country who have been eager to offer patronage to our traditional crafts and artistry. Trying to revive our cultural heritage through fashion they promote themselves, encouraging modern designers to pay tribute to our folklore and traditional artisans. Following the handloom art exhibition, Khadi Utshab, this season Kay Kraft has arranged the 'Art of Tradition Exhibition," said Khalid.

To make the exhibition memorable, a brochure was published and distributed among the visitors.

The representation of the significant cultural elements and heritage and hereafter the presentation methodology, if properly planned conducted and orchestrated, evidently will lead to a new flavouring of beautification suited to contemporary taste, fashion while admire the country's rich cultural heritage.

Photo: Kay Kraft.