Meet the Artist: The Face Behind Kalakari by Krati
When people see a beautifully handcrafted piece of Lippan art on their wall, they often admire its patterns, mirrors, and earthy charm. What they rarely see is the story, the journey, and the hands that bring such decor to life. Behind every creation at Kalakari by Krati stands one person – me, Krati – an artist, a dreamer, and the sole curator of this little world of tradition and creativity.
The Beginning of a Creative Journey
Art has always been more than a hobby for me – it has been my way of connecting with myself and expressing emotions that words sometimes fail to capture. Growing up, I was drawn to Indian folk art forms, each carrying a history, a culture, and a unique rhythm of storytelling. Among them, Lippan art held a special place in my heart.
Originating from the mud huts of Kutch, Gujarat, Lippan art is more than decoration. It is heritage, passed down through generations, where villagers would create intricate patterns using mud, mirrors, and clay to adorn their homes. The shimmering reflections of mirrors against the earthy tones have always fascinated me. I knew that one day, I wanted to not just admire it but breathe life into it with my own hands.
Turning Passion into Purpose
Like many artists, my journey started small – experimenting with designs, learning the techniques, and trying to balance creativity with perfection. Slowly, what was once a passion project turned into Kalakari by Krati – a brand that celebrates handmade art.
As the single owner, every aspect of this journey rests with me. From sketching initial patterns to choosing the right materials, from long hours of detailing to packaging the final piece, I am involved in it all. Each step gives me a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I am sharing something truly personal with people who value handmade decor.
The Process Behind Every Piece
Many customers often ask me, “How long does it take to make one piece?” The answer is – it depends. Sometimes it takes days, sometimes weeks. But one thing remains constant: the dedication.
The process begins with an idea. Sometimes it’s inspired by traditional motifs, other times by modern minimalism. I prepare the base, shape the designs with clay, add the mirrors carefully, and wait patiently for everything to set. Once it is ready, I add finishing touches that make the artwork shine – literally and figuratively.
This process requires patience, but for me, it’s meditative. Every mirror I place feels like a fragment of positivity, reflecting light and joy into the homes where my art will eventually belong.
Tradition Meets Modern Homes
One of my biggest motivations has been to bring Lippan art out of its traditional context and introduce it to modern living spaces. While staying true to its roots, I also experiment with colors, patterns, and formats to make it versatile. From nameplates and coasters to wall hangings and torans, every piece is designed to blend culture with contemporary aesthetics.
For me, art is not just about making something beautiful – it’s about making something meaningful. I want my work to spark conversations, to remind people of the richness of Indian crafts, and to show that handmade art is timeless.
Challenges of Being a Solo Artist
Running Kalakari by Krati as a single owner comes with its challenges. There are days when balancing creativity with the practical side of business feels overwhelming. Handling everything from creation to marketing, from social media to customer care, means wearing many hats at once.
But despite these hurdles, what keeps me going is the love and support from people who choose handmade over machine-made, who value the time and effort behind each piece. Every happy message, every photo of my art in someone’s home, every repeat order – it reminds me why I started in the first place.
Why Handmade Matters
In today’s fast-paced world of mass production, handmade art holds a special charm. It carries the imperfections that make it unique, the stories that make it alive, and the human touch that machines can never replicate.
Through Kalakari by Krati, I want people to not just buy decor but to invest in heritage, to own something that has been crafted with love and care. When you choose handmade, you don’t just buy a product – you become part of an artist’s journey, dreams, and traditions.
Looking Ahead
My dream is to take Lippan art to more homes, both in India and around the world. I envision Kalakari by Krati growing into a space where art lovers can find unique pieces that reflect both tradition and innovation. More importantly, I want to continue evolving as an artist, learning, experimenting, and creating with the same passion that started this journey.
A Personal Note
At the end of the day, Kalakari by Krati is not just a brand – it’s me. Every piece you see here carries a piece of my heart, my time, and my dedication. I am not just selling art; I am sharing stories, emotions, and a part of my culture with you.
So, when you bring home a piece from Kalakari by Krati, know that it’s more than decor. It’s a slice of tradition, a reflection of light, and a connection between my hands and your home.
✨ Thank you for supporting handmade. Thank you for supporting me. ✨