The tradition of crafts in Bengal has existed for centuries. These ancient techniques were passed down from one generation to the next, and have been kept alive by skilled artisans throughout the region even to this day. Bengal Foundation’s interest and involvement in crafts is aligned with its mission to conserve culture and tradition. For over a decade the Foundation has worked together with the National Craft Council of Bangladesh and other organisations to revitalise the craft industry.
Bengal Foundation has jointly organised the Mastercraftspersons Award and Crafts Fair with the National Crafts Council since 2010 in an attempt to revive traditional practices, recognising the value of artisans in our culture, and encouraging others to follow in their tradition.
The programme, over the years, has also lent support to the fair trade brand Aranya, with the intension of recapturing and re-establishing the lost traditions of natural dye usage, promoting their eco-friendly alternatives to the fashion industry.
The Foundation; in association with National Craft Council of Bangladesh, Aranya, Aarong, Tangail Saree Kutir, Kumudini, and Bangladesh National Museum; is presently organising the Jamdani Festival – an event celebrating the heritage of the Jamdani textile in Bangladesh, and the skill of the master artisans involved with the craft. The Festival will feature an exhibition of original and replicas of Jamdanis dating back to two centuries, live demonstrations by weavers, an international seminar, workshop, a documentary film, amongst many others.
Bengal Crafts Programme presently focuses its works to conserve tradition, promote and encourage its practice in Bangladesh.