Fifteenth International Conference on Design Principles & Practices

Abstract

The textiles of the Khasi Hills (a district in Meghalaya) are one of the least worked upon textiles of the North East region of India, especially in terms of research, customer experiences, customization, and marketing. Handloom weaving with unique and traditional techniques has been an old age process of the Khasis, but over the years the lifestyle of the present generation has shifted their attention to extensive westernized form of clothing and apparel. There has been a decline of authentic weaves in the market which in turn affects the livelihoods of the weavers as well. This has caused the weavers to turn to alternative sources of income. Innovation of these textiles for the present market is still at large. Research and innovation can be brought about to suit the present day generations while still retaining their cultural identity. This research is intended to explore the parameters of reviving the Eri silk market and producing high quality Eri silk products by implementing modern innovative ideas that would help artisans to compete in today‘s fierce competitive environment. This research aims to identify the reasons as to why handloom is declining especially among the youth and some of the design elements and factors that need to be taken into consideration when creating a desire for Eri silk products among the present generation. This project will help in exemplifying these local handlooms as significant and modern, while still retaining the cultural identity of this handloom fabric , thus a contribution to reviving the market.