In the bustling world of textile craftsmanship, where fashion often reigns supreme, one designer dared to chart a different course. Meet Brinda Dudhat, the creative force behind Morii Design, a studio specializing in textile wall art that seamlessly blends heritage craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics.
Morii Design didn't start with grandeur but rather with a humble beginning as a garment brand in 2019. "We began with fully hand-embroidered jackets," Brinda recalls. Each piece was a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, unique and singular in its design—a far cry from mass production. Yet, despite the craftsmanship, finding the right market posed a challenge.
"It was during this time that a serendipitous moment occurred," Brinda recounts. "I framed one of our embroidered panels as an experiment." This simple act caught the eye of an architect in Mumbai, who recognized its potential as a stunning piece of wall art. "From there, word spread within the architecture community," Brinda adds with a smile, underscoring the organic growth of Morii Design's new direction.
Brinda Dudhat
The Artisanal Process
Central to Morii Design's ethos is its commitment to heritage and sustainability. Brinda explains, "We collaborate with women artisans from rural villages, particularly those skilled in traditional embroidery techniques." These artisans, often from communities like the Rabaris in Kutch, bring generations of expertise to the table. "Our process begins with a vision," Brinda elaborates. "I initiate the artwork, setting the colors and composition. Then, we collaborate closely with the artisans, treating them as partners in the creative process." This collaboration ensures that while the craftsmanship remains traditional, the designs evolve to resonate with modern sensibilities.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Beyond creativity and craftsmanship, Morii Design champions sustainability through its Zero Waste Initiative. "We repurpose every bit of fabric," Brinda asserts proudly. "Even the smallest trimmings find new life, whether in upcycled artworks or as fillings for cushions and accessories."
The Meaning Behind Morii
The name Morii holds special significance for Brinda, derived from the Japanese word for forest. "During my time at NID, I was inspired by Japanese culture and the concept of the Mori girl—a fashion subculture that celebrates nature and simplicity," she explains. "It felt fitting, as our work aims to evoke the richness of a forest: vibrant, diverse, and deeply rooted."
Elevating Spaces with Morii Art
When asked about the impact of Morii Design's artwork on spaces, Brinda's enthusiasm is palpable. "A Morii piece brings a touch of traditional textiles into a space," she notes. "It adds color and emotional depth, while also telling the story of empowering rural women through art." "By reimagining traditional crafts with a contemporary twist," Brinda concludes, "we ensure that these timeless techniques find relevance in modern homes and spaces." As the interview draws to a close, Brinda Dudhat leaves us with a glimpse into her vision: a future where heritage crafts thrive alongside sustainability, where each piece of Morii Design's artwork not only adorns walls but also enriches lives, one stitch at a time.
Words Paridhi Badgotri
Date 15.07.2024