Simon Van Booy once said, “Hands have their own language," and it’s hard not to agree when you think about everything they do. They’re not just tools we use; they’re storytellers, full of quiet details about who we are—from the unique way each of us cook our food, do our hair or the gestures we make when we're nervous or excited. Our hands carry the weight of our choices, our work, and our love. In the world of craft, hands are nothing short of magical. They take raw materials—wood, clay, fabric—and turn them into something meaningful, something alive. The knowledge behind this magic is ancient, handed down over centuries through practice and precision. It’s not written in books but etched into the muscle memory of hands that have done the same thing a thousand times before.

Drishya’s photoseries, 'Hands That Make', celebrates this magic. Since 2022, the ongoing project has been documenting traditional handcrafts from India and South Asia through the craftsmen that are behind them. These are the hands that bring centuries-old skills to life, keeping traditions alive in a world that’s rushing toward automation.

One of the most striking images in the series is of Seduram Chippa, a master block printer from Bagru, Rajasthan. For generations, his family has been a part of the Chippa community, known for their natural dyes and intricate printing techniques. Seduram works alongside his son and grandsons, teaching them the old ways while keeping up with new demands. The series also turns its lens to Aravind Sharma, whose hands are a testament to both skill and struggle. Originally from Farrukhabad, Uttar Pradesh, Aravind came to Bagru decades ago, drawn by the promise of work. Years of handling harsh chemicals in commercial printmaking have left their mark on his skin, but his hands keep creating; a reminder of the sacrifices artisans often make to keep their art alive. And then there’s Rajendar Rajput, a master carver whose work begins with a simple piece of wood and a paper design. With chisels and hammers, he transforms these raw materials into intricate printing blocks. Each groove and curve speaks of patience and expertise, honed over years of practice.

Through these portraits, Drishya strikingly captures the unwavering devotion these craftsmen have to their craft. The photos tell a story of lives spent in relentless pursuit of perfection and hands worn by years of practice, but have never tired of creating. For these artisans, their work is more than just a livelihood; it’s a calling, one that has been passed down through generations, shaping their identity and purpose. The photos reveal the deep connection these craftsmen have to their art, where every movement, every stroke, and every carve is an act of love and dedication. The portraits of these craftsmen are the physical manifestation of years spent honing skills, battling hardship, and preserving a heritage that is both invaluable and irreplaceable.

At its heart, 'Hands That Make' visually translates indigenous craft into a narrative of identity, heritage, and the connection between people and their traditions. Through its portraits, the series captures the indispensable services of artisans who are keeping the stories that connect us to our roots alive. In today’s world of mass production and instant gratification, 'Hands That Make' feels like a much-needed pause. It reminds us to value the handmade, the slow, and the meaningful. Drishya’s work is a love letter to the artisans of South Asia and a call to preserve their stories. It’s proof that even in an age of machines, the human touch will always matter.

Follow Drishya here.

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