So, now the summer is over I can give you all an update on how things are going. Well, firstly my diffusion range, Moki, is up and running. It’s more aimed at the mass market but has my distinctive signature of eastern elements with a western blend. With the guidance and support from the team at Fashion Enter, I feel that I am accomplishing what I initially set out to do.

Moving onto Shyamoki, I have been hard at work creating my Spring/Summer ’08 and Autumn/Winter ’08/09 collections, both of which are still work in progress at the moment! I have had my fair share of set backs, especially from manufacturers letting me down. In fact I am actually writing from India at the moment while trying to source new and interesting fabrics/trimmings. I have also been in touch with and am now working with another non profit government organisation called ‘Gurjari’ based in the state of Gujarat in India which again helps the sustainability of Indian artwork and more importantly village workers.

Women from Gujarat

Embroiderers working on Zardozi

All in all, I think the most rewarding aspect of my journey so far has been working with the non profit organisations across all of India. I feel that I have developed a great bond with the village workers. It’s amazing to see how different one’s life can be and how important their artistic skills are for the sustainability of their livelihood. I am glad to have had the opportunity to experience this, which has not only changed my perspective on life but has also inspired my own artistic talents…

Stitching Unit

An essential source of income

for

women in rural villages

Till the next time…. Shyamoki