At B-CAF, we are passionately engaged in working with Patachitra artists in Bankura and Kantha women artists in Sunderbans. Our commitment to fostering design, product development and effective marketing is evident in our endeavors. Through artist residencies and workshops, we strive to revitalize and innovate traditional crafts.

We adopt a problem-solving approach, encouraging artists to reconnect with their cultural roots and revive the use of organic colors in their creations. Recognizing the increasing popularity of traditional art forms in crafting utilitarian products, we collaborate closely with these artisans. Our aim is to enhance the quality of their work, ensuring that their creations are not merely perceived as folk products but are recognized as paragons of excellence.

By facilitating a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, we work towards elevating the livelihoods of traditional art practitioners, creating a sustainable and thriving ecosystem for Patachitra and Kantha women artists.

At B-CAF, we hosted a remarkable Residency program centered on the enchanting art form of Patachitra, expressed on cloth with a focus to use this artform to generate livelihood. During this engaging program, the skilled artisans embarked on a journey of artistic exploration. They delved into the vibrant world of textiles, exploring a diverse array of fabrics through an inspiring visit to the local market.

This immersive experience allowed them to develop a profound appreciation for the intricacies of measurements and the importance of consistency in creating products tailored for urban markets. As a result, our artisans found themselves inspired to craft truly unique and captivating products that seamlessly blend tradition with modernity. Their work stands as a testament to the fusion of heritage and innovation, born from the heart of the Patachitra Residency at B-CAF.

B-CAF, in collaboration with the Botanical Survey of India (BSI), recently organized an innovative workshop focused on organic colors. The traditional art practitioners, who have for generations passed down the intricate technique of organic color preparation, were at risk of abandoning their heritage in favor of chemical alternatives due to persisting challenges. In a proactive approach, B-CAF invited the BSI team to facilitate this transformative workshop. The event not only aimed to reignite the art form's ancient vibrancy but also presented a problem-solving approach to address the difficulties these artisans encountered. Through this collaborative effort, we hope to inspire and equip these dedicated artists to embrace organic colors once again, preserving their invaluable traditions and ensuring a sustainable artistic legacy for future generations. As part of this initiative, a film screening showcased the journey of artisans who successfully transitioned back to organic colors, offering real-life examples of overcoming challenges and reinvigorating traditional art practices.

Kantha, a traditional form of embroidery, has been a cherished family tradition for centuries, lovingly passed down through generations by skilled women. This beautiful art form not only serves as a symbol of cultural heritage but also holds untapped potential as a means of empowerment. Recognizing this, the dedicated team at B-CAF initiated a skill-building workshop, collaborating with a talented designer. Together, they explored innovative ways to transform Kantha into marketable clothing items, thereby unlocking economic opportunities for the artisans. This endeavor not only preserves a rich tradition but also paves the way for women to gain economic independence through their craft, ensuring that the art of Kantha continues to flourish in the modern world.

B-CAF in collaboration with the Australian Consulate in Kolkata, we orchestrated an enriching exchange program that facilitated a unique connection between indigenous artists from Australia and Kantha artisans from the Sundarbans in West Bengal, India. This program's overarching objective was to cultivate a profound cultural exchange and collaboration between these two distinct indigenous communities. Engaging in hands-on workshops and inspiring demonstrations, artists from both backgrounds shared and absorbed the essence of each other's artistic practices. They delved into the intricacies of techniques, motifs, and cultural narratives, exploring both commonalities and distinctions. This vibrant interaction not only deepened their comprehension of each other's rich heritage but also kindled a profound sense of mutual respect and genuine appreciation for the diversity of their artistry.