Once upon a time all an artist needed was a rough sketch basic resources to bring their designs to life. However, the creation and consumption of art have undergone drastic changes in the last few decades. A wave of digitalization has swept out the old and is in with new perspectives and modern artists trying to reinvent the ways in which we experience it.
Honing a culture meets technology approach to calibrate India’s creator economy, Me Meraki has stepped up to be a notable platform uniting artists and audiences in a unique and welcoming space; championing ancient artistic practices across the country.
Me Meraki was kickstarted by Yosha Gupta in 2017 while she was living in Hong Kong. A working professional hailing from the fintech industry, Yosha maintains that art has always been a significant part of her life. Her love for art kicked off into a passion project during her time in Hong Kong when her Madhubani painted Gucci bag received appreciation and attention.
Yosha realized the untapped potential of India’s traditional art and artists and worked towards providing the slowly diminishing skills with a global platform. She opted for a co-creation approach as she started sourcing bags from China and sent them to be hand-painted by skilled artists in India. The bags were later sold in Hong Kong.
“We are creating India’s first ‘culture-tech’ platform using technology to power and accelerate the artisan creator economy; with a mission to digitize every heritage art and craft in India to ultimately create sustainable livelihoods for artisans while unlocking creative human potential globally,” says the art based platform, while talking about their aim of reimaging the future of heritage art and craft of India.
The platform features live workshops that are taught by expert artisan masters seasoned in the history of art and crafts that allow the audience to connect with their roots and understand traditional art practices up close. Live workshops include by step mentorship and authentic art kits to promote an interactive learning experience. Spanning across 60 heritage craft courses and aiming to slowly but steadily highlight India’s artisanal heritage, Meraki is a new age platform embracing e-learning, allowing you to buy curated pieces from artistic collections and develop an appreciation for India’s rich craftsmanship. You can find in-depth courses and live workshops on artforms including Pichwai, Kalamkari, Madhubani, Pattachitra, Kerala Mural, Gond, Phad, Lippan Kaam, Terracotta, and Tanjore on their website.
Presently Meraki sells one of a kind hand-painted bags, evening clutches, and home décor to art enthusiasts all across the world. If you’re looking to learn a new skill or buy a handcrafted piece of art, we suggest checking out the multifaceted art platform.
View the platform here.
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