Bheet
Woven on a Dobby Loom ( 16-32 Harness ) , Sustainable, Upcycled , Re-using Single use Plastic bags into Yarns , Material Innovation, Color theory
RECYCLED - UPCYCLED : New York Times newsletter plastic sleeves and Wall Street journal plastic sleeves into yarns for weaving
THE PIECE IS MADE WITH WASTE PLASTIC : YARN MADE FROM HAND SPINNING AND HEAT APPLICATION
Spread from the Book
CULTURE UNCONSUMED
Bheet
/Bh-ee-t/
Bheet, the Rajasthani term for walls, represents the sturdy exterior that shields against the harsh desert elements, often adorned in beige monotones that blend seamlessly with the arid landscape. Yet, step inside the palaces, and a kaleidoscope of colors awaits—a vibrant tapestry of blues, greens, and intricate motifs inspired by floral and geometric patterns found in the palace architecture. This striking contrast between the subdued tones of the exterior and the vibrant hues of the interiors reflects the duality inherent in Rajasthan’s landscape and culture—the harmony of tradition and modernity, austerity and opulence, resilience and beauty.
Drawing inspiration from bheet and palace interiors, my woven textile piece, crafted using sin- gle-use plastic bags on an AVL Dobby loom, seeks to encapsulate this essence. The motifs, inspired by the floral and geometric de- signs of the palaces, intertwine with the plastic strands, weaving a narrative of tradition and innovation. Through the meticulous weaving process, I aim to recreate the texture and depth of bheet, capturing its solidity and resilience, while infusing it with the vibrant colors and intricate patterns reminiscent of palace interiors. In doing so, I invite viewers to journey through Rajasthan's contrasting worlds, where the walls speak of strength and endurance, and the interiors resonate with the rich tapestry of culture and heritage. This textile piece becomes a testament to the enduring spirit of Rajasthan, where tradition and innovation converge to create beauty in un- expected places.
Process and Closeups
