The Orissa offering

KOCHI: Ethnic handloom and handicraft exhibitions are always something to watch out for. And this time, it is Orissa that comes calling at the Art and Crafts Exposition being held at the Women’s Association Hall, Warriom Road. The exhibition features a sample of the State’s indigenous artifacts and textiles. The collection is not a large one, but the pieces on display certainly reflect the ethnic culture of its land. There are a good deal of Orissa saris, popular for their ikat work and tie and dye fabrics known as bandhas. They  come in a variety of vibrant colours like red, blue and magenta with nice ikat patterns on them. The other highlights in the sari section are the unique Samabalpur and Cuttack saris. Bomaki and Habaspuri saris with traditional patterns are also available. Kotpad saris have a speciality, wherein they are dyed with local vegetal dyes and woven on very rudimentary looms. The saris usually have tribal motifs like fish, crab, swan, tortoise, pot and vegetables. Dhokra tribal sculptures are another attraction at the expo. It uses the lost-wax method that makes possible the casting of a sculpture with elaborate curves and great detail. Figurines of gods and goddesses, humans, animals and birds are available. It could cost you anything from Rs 150 and upwards. Palm leaf engravings are another ethnic specialty on display here. Strips of palm leaf are collected, boiled, kept under wet clay,  scrubbed on timber, and then dried. After the illustration is graved, powdered coal is applied. The leaves have many scenes and sequences illustrating mythological stories.  Wall hangings and lampshades with applique work are also available. Pata chitra are icon paintings used for wall paintings, manuscript paintings, palm-leaf etching and painting on both cotton and silk. They are an easy way to deck up your interiors as they come in classy patterns and nice shades. Stone carving is an important traditional art that the state boasts of. Though in the earlier days, the activity was limited to carving of deities, now it has extended to everything from ashtrays to paper weights to candle stands and book rests. Decorative artifacts, wall hangings and jewellery items are other items on offer. The prices are slightly on the higher side, and you might also find the range limiting, but for those who just adore possessing ethnic items, it’s an exhibition worth a visit. The fest is on till October 8.