Decoding Sustainability
Tanmay, an artisan from Bengal with a background in art from Shantiniketan, has carved a unique niche by crafting figurines, idols, sculptures and decorative items from recycled materials. Here’s an insight into his creative journey.
1. What inspired you to start the business?
Tanmay: The courses and faculty at Shantiniketan were a huge source of inspiration. They encouraged creating sustainable art from scrap, which opened my eyes to the potential of upcycled art.
2. How popular are your products, and where do you source the material from?
Tanmay: My work has gained popularity both within West Bengal and internationally. I source materials such as rods, vehicle parts, and wheels from local garbage collectors and scrap dealers to make figurines like statues, tribal folks etc. and decor items.
3. What aspects of traditional techniques are highlighted in your products?
Tanmay: I’ve always had an artistic flair, which I channel into decorating my products. The basic structures are built from scrap, but I use traditional techniques for painting and adding metallic finishes that bring each piece to life, depicting human or folk figures as required.
4. Who are the primary buyers of your products?
Tanmay: Many of my pieces go to exhibitions, and I often create customized products based on clients' designs, transforming them into 3D models.
5. Where did you get the idea to start a sustainable and eco-friendly business?
Tanmay: Shantiniketan played a significant role in nurturing this idea. My habit of creating things from waste naturally aligned with the concept of sustainable art.
6. Is this business profitable in the current times?
Tanmay: Yes, it is profitable, especially as more people become aware of sustainable art. With consistent orders, I manage to make a steady income.
7. Can you tell me about your creative process?
Tanmay: When I receive a design or image from a client, I begin collecting suitable scrap materials, which can take up to two months. Once I have everything, I assemble and weld the pieces to create a structure, adding detailed painting and decorations to complete the model.
8. What challenges have you faced in your craft, and how have you overcome them?
Tanmay: The most significant challenge is sourcing materials. It often requires a lot of searching to find specific pieces. I’ve learned to always keep an eye out for potential materials to stay prepared for future orders.
9. What's a common misconception people have about your craft?
Tanmay: Many people assume that my craft is easy to create. However, the most difficult part is sourcing the right materials. Assembling the pieces is time-consuming but less challenging than finding the materials.
10. Can you describe a memorable experience with a customer?
Tanmay: One memorable moment was during an exhibition where a customer was fascinated by a tribal-themed figure I created. That admiration led to an influx of 200-300 orders for that particular design, marking a significant milestone for me.
Tanmay’s journey in sustainable art shows how creativity, coupled with environmental awareness, can lead to unique and meaningful creations.