Kashish Jain
Through my Eyes
An embodiment of affection and warmth
The scarf is a versatile and contemporary adaptation of the saree, turning it into a wearable piece that not only represents cultural heritage but also the way of holding onto a mother's saree while seeking comfort and protection, which portrays the deep connection between mother and child. A saree's translation into a scarf is a celebration of the artistry and cultural legacy it contains, and shows how flexible and timeless old crafts remain.
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This project was carried out at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, Netherlands, with the textile being woven at the Textile Museum in Tilburg, Netherlands.
Historical textiles (saree) belong to the traditional craft of Rajasthan, India, known as Kota Doria, and are widely famous for their exquisite and delicate fabric. The craft involves weaving lightweight cotton and silk threads to create beautiful textiles that are renowned for their sheer quality and fine texture.
The objective was to select a historical object and thoroughly understand its technical, sensory, and intangible aspects. This involved exploring the materials used, their historical context, and trade, as well as the qualities and significance of the natural colors. The spiral diagram below visually represents the research journey, from material analysis to storytelling, culminating in a recontextualized historical project. By delving into these elements, I aimed to create a comprehensive narrative that connects the past with the present, enriching our understanding of historical craftsmanship.
Process book
Project book
Textile yarns - Bio cotton nm 34/2
Weaving Technique - Huck lace and Double weaving
Textile woven at - Textile museum, Tilburg, Netherlands
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Model - Kashish Jain (myself)
Photographer - Marie Eve
Shoot theme - ‘I feel your presence in every whisper of wind and every ray of sunlight that touches my face’
Shoot location - Strandslag beach, The hague, Netherlands