Скачать или смотреть In the Hands of an Artisan: Kamal Kumar’s Clay Creations

People often ask me how I discover these unique stories and artisans. To be honest, the best part about building a community is having like-minded people who follow this journey, develop their own keen eye, and generously share hidden gems with me.

Just last week, Bindi, a talented photographer from Ahmedabad, visited Lucknow and stumbled upon Mr. Kamal Kumar near Ghantaghar, selling beautifully crafted clay fruits and toys. She immediately clicked a photograph and shared it with me. That’s how I discovered this incredible artisan.

These small clay fruits instantly sparked nostalgia, taking me back to childhood days spent at melas and Diwali fairs, marveling at how lifelike they seemed. Driven by curiosity, I decided to meet Mr. Kumar to learn more about his art, his story, and the challenges he faces.

What I discovered was both inspiring and heartbreaking. Mr. Kumar, along with his wife, meticulously creates these stunning pieces by hand, a craft passed down through generations. Amazingly, he is also a recipient of a national award for this very art. Yet, despite this recognition, they sell their painstakingly made creations for just ₹250 for six pieces—a price that hardly justifies the weeks of hard work and craftsmanship that go into each set.

Imagine reintroducing this beautiful, handmade art into our lives—not just as nostalgic keepsakes, but as thoughtful gifts for friends or elegant additions to home decor.

I've included Mr. Kumar’s contact information below. Please reach out to him directly if you're interested in his exquisite clay creations. Remember, handcrafted art takes time and patience to create, so let’s value it accordingly.

I'd love to hear your thoughts—does this story resonate with you? Can we help preserve and celebrate this heritage craft together? Share your perspective in the comments. After all, stories have the incredible power to change how we see the world.