The Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation limited, with the brand name of Poompuhar, an undertaking of the government of Tamil Nadu, has displayed a wide range of exquisite Bronze replicas of Chola, Pallava and Hoysala period of icons, intricately carved brass lamps, wood, stone carvings and Thanjavur picture paintings at lalit Kala Akademi. It was inaugurated by Dinesh Kumar, IAS, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textile, Govt of India.
The Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation limited is taking steps to provide direct and indirect potential marketing support to crafts persons. The unique craftsmanship is richly reflected in bronze, brassware, stoneware, sandalwood and rosewood carvings in day to day utility art pieces like that of lamps, wooden sculptures and wall brackets.
Traditional wood carvings and various sizes of highly decorated bronzes and brass lamps with swan on top are highlights of the exhibition. These have been collected painstakingly over a period of six months and presented, keeping in view the artistic taste of the visitors and their tradition. The exhibition also presents the inherent culture of the state and craftsmen skills.
Presently, the corporation has a network of 14 showrooms all over India including states like Bangalore, Kolkata and Delhi. Exhibitions like this are conducted to market the artefact and the remote crafts of the state, particularly in regions where we do not have regular showrooms. The corporation has seven production centers, set up to provide design inputs and production of rare objects and motifs which are not normally crafted. Projects like manufacturing of wooden, silver and golden chariots, bells and other items required for temples have also been undertaken.
This is a developmental activity and focusses on quality and craftsmanship. Exhibitions like this offer a variety of crafts in media like bronzes, brass, stone, Thanjavur picture paintings and art plates. Crafts famous within the country and abroad are provided to consumers under one roof. It also provides an opportunity to view a live demonstration from the creators. The exhibition is on till August 1.