In Every Print, a Story of Strength and Artistry unfolds
Behind every vibrant motif, intricate screen, and colourful block-printed piece of fabric lies not just artistry but a story of transformation.
At our partner centre in Rajasthan, one artisan’s journey speaks to the quiet resilience and radiant passion that fuels her every creation. “I have always been a creative person,” she shares. Her roots in painting and crochet laid the foundation, but it was stepping into the world of textile printing that brought her creative spirit to life in new untapped ways.
Today, she works regularly with both screen printing and block printing techniques; two of the most demanding yet beautiful art forms that require focus, patience, and great precision. “New screens and prints make me excited,” she says. “And all the beautiful colours make me want to do more print work.”
Yet, behind the beauty of the final product lies an often-unseen reality: artisans working in intense heat to ensure patterns are perfected before the inks dry out , enduring production delays due to heavy monsoon rains that can smudge even the most carefully applied print, or managing heavy screens that must be handled with much care and strength. “There’s a lot of minute detailing we have to take care of,” she explains. “I want people to appreciate our hard work, time, patience and efforts.”
Photo by Anoothi for Shakti.ism
For her, this work is more than just a livelihood. It has brought independence, financial freedom and a newfound confidence.
“I wasn’t even able to step out of the house,” she reflects. “But now, working here has given me courage and a platform to be self-reliant.”
Her face lights up when she speaks of being able to support her family and contribute to her children’s education. It’s clear: her artistry is woven deeply with purpose.
Photo by Anoothi for Shakti.ism
What she hopes for is simple, yet profound; that the rich legacy of the entire centre where she and her fellow artisans’ block printing and kantha work continues to reach homes around the world, and that more women like her get the opportunity to stand on their own feet. “We put our hearts into making this product. We give our full dedication to provide quality,” she says. And she hopes that, through your support, even more women will be empowered to do the same.
To this artisan, and so many others at her station like her, we say thank you. Thank you for your courage. Thank you for the colour you bring to the world. We do not take your contribution or the stories you share with us for granted.
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Let’s continue supporting women who are creating beauty and building futures with every thread, stitch, and print.
Written by Kataike Athalia Lenny