Khamir Kachchh Heritage Art Music Information And Resources

At Khamir, the aim is to spark curiosity and a profound comprehension of craft, culture, and conservation in Kachchh. Through cultural engagement, experiential learning, and research, Khamir fosters connections between a diverse public and artisans. This dynamic interaction establishes a platform where creative industries are acknowledged as vital societal pillars and traditional livelihoods are recognized for their growth potential. Khamir's initiatives encompass public workshops, curated exhibitions, school and university visits, as well as research and documentation—all contributing to the preservation and promotion of Kachchh's rich heritage and crafts.

Khamir focuses on linking artisans with markets, fostering fair trade, and underscoring the significance of trust and relationship-building. Trade facilitation not only generates income for artisans but also enhances community capacity building. The four-pronged approach includes Terms of Engagement supporting small and medium artisan units, Marketing and Exhibitions promoting cultural value, Khamir Craft Outlet providing a marketplace for Kachchhi handicrafts, and an emphasis on connecting wholesale buyers with organising agencies or large artisan units for mutual benefit.

Identifying critical needs within various craft areas, Khamir employs a holistic approach to address these issues through targeted interventions. Initiatives include the Social Security Programme, focusing on health insurance and Government scheme linkages; a Credit Initiative partnering with low-interest credit providers; a Raw Materials Depot offering quality materials at competitive prices; development of Appropriate Technologies; Skill Development programmes for artisans; and Craft Studios on the Khamir campus, providing a collaborative space for weaving, dyeing, and pottery, fostering skill enhancement and creative experimentation among artisans.

At Khamir, an inventive spirit thrives as traditional Kachchhi crafts blend with appropriate technologies and unconventional raw materials. Committed to sustainable craft livelihoods and mindful of environmental impact, Khamir undertakes innovative projects, expanding the application of established craft skills. The organisation utilizes local materials, specialized techniques, and technologies while keeping supply chains concise. Noteworthy initiatives include the Camel Wool Project, the Kala Cotton Initiative promoting sustainable cotton production, and the Recycled Plastic Project, training women to weave plastic collected from industrial and residential areas, offering economic opportunities to diverse communities.

The Craft Curriculum Project by Khamir seeks to integrate handicrafts into Kachchh's modern education systems. Employing a systemic approach, it reimagines primary education, emphasizing experiential learning through crafts like spinning, weaving, pottery, and block printing. The project involves crafting a curriculum for Grade 4-8 students that aligns with national learning outcomes. Simultaneously, a teaching methodology is developed, merging traditional craft knowledge with modern teaching methods, and accommodating diverse learning styles. The collaborative effort engages teachers, artisan resource teachers, parents, school committees, and Panchayats for a comprehensive and inclusive educational perspective.