Kala Setu (Sanskrit for “Art Bridge”) explores a dialogue between Indian folk traditions and contemporary art practices. The work uses Bandhani fabric, an ancient Indian tie-dye technique, and canvas as symbolic materials representing these two worlds. Threads physically and metaphorically connect them, suggesting universality and continuity across cultures.

Materials were sourced directly from artisans, foregrounding the artisan as a collaborator and origin of material knowledge. The installation evolved through a multi-step performance involving natural dyeing, cloth-drying inspired arrangements, and the gradual revelation of Bandhani patterns. Postcards documenting each performative step were created for viewers to take away, extending the artwork beyond the gallery as a shared, tactile memory.

Artisan collaborator: Aslam Bhai Khatri (Bandhani fabric)