Hello Everyone!

Its time again for our 10 on 10! And this week we have Kavitha of Kalalayaa in the hot spot. Her cards are unique and make a perfecct gift for every occassion. A card speaks volumes about how much you care and the cards from Kalalayaa make the job even easier. Her passion for art and crafts has led her to open her own art school. Read more about Kavitha and her artistic pursuits in our 10 on 10. As a crafts instructor, she has tips for begginers too.

1. About yourselves….

 I am a computer science graduate by studies but my passion for arts and designing from my young age moved me towards fashion designing. After my degree I joined a fashion designing course. But since it involves lot of stitching in which I don’t have much interest I was in a dilemma as to what to do next. At that time I joined a painting class by accident, and then I decided that this is going to be my future. Since then I started learning various forms of arts and shortly I started my own art school. And then there was no looking back.

 2. What is your take on Indian Handicraft products?

 Indian handmade products have a rich tradition. Each state has its own traditional form of arts and crafts from which we can learn their culture, day to day life etc. I love the paintings of gods n goddesses in each state. More over most of the products have utility value which I think is the best part of Indian handicraft products.

 3. What are your varied craft interests?

I love any form of art, right from needle works to pottery, painting, sculpting etc.. I learnt many things but my all time favorite is paintings, which I feel can reflect one's personality very well. My recent addiction is towards paper crafts :).

4. Who or What inspires your creations?

Mostly any art work inspires me a lot. If I feel the need for inspiration I visit some blogs or search for images on the net. Some times I use a ready made gift product or doll as my model. My first art teacher who knows almost about all the art forms is my main inspiration behind learning so many things. Without her I wouldn't have realized that there are so many art forms in India.

5. Your best critique and the best recognition for your creation that you have received so far.

I am my best critique because all my family members and friends are so good to me and they never say that my work is not good :)

My best recognition till date is when I won the district level prize in fevicryl FACE awards which is conducted periodically all over India. 

6. If you were given a chance to learn a new craft, what would it be? 

I want to learn clay flower sculpting. It looks so delicate and natural. 

7. Three of your favorite products in your shop....

Pink birthday card, congrats card, Hello card.

8. Three of your favorite products from other shops in Cratsia...

Jade necklace form chitra's jewel, Mast jhola bag from just art store, friends card from Little things

9. A craft tip that you would like to share with others.

I always say this - just keep practicing daily and art will get better by itself every single passing day, so keep crafting :).As I teach arts, I’ve noticed this with many of them. They have the fear to try out something for the first time. There is nothing to fear about it. Obviously mistakes will happen first few times. But only if you overcome your fear you can develop your artistic skills. If you think you can’t then there is no way to learn something so believe in yourself.

10. Artistic plans for future? What can we expect to see in Kalalayaa soon?

More new, unique and personalized handmade gifts:)     

I thank craftsia for this wonderful opportunity, its a great initiative you  have taken for showcasing Indian hand made products which is much needed at this time.

That was really inspiring Kavitha. I'm sure many aspiring crafters would have something to take from this interview. Thank you for taking time and participating in 10 on 10. Wish you all the best for your future projects and your art school.

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