Many stakeholders of the handmade ecosystem came together in 2020 to support artisans during the covid crisis. Within four fast-paced months, the network grew with connections in 26 states of the country and succeeded in raising money for relief, preparing and enabling artisans for digital platforms and digital access to markets. Despite the devastation which ensued, C19 proved to be an opportunity to address the fragility of the artisan economy, the second largest employment generator in the country after agriculture.
Post the crisis, the network continued as it was unanimously felt that the handmade sector has been in a long crisis for decades and taking a collaborative approach may be able to address the gaps. Subsequently, CD was consolidated as a network for the sector but consciously not formalized.
With 4 years of palpable impact, CD members work towards rejuvenation for artisan groups in India. Before and during these years, the markets, buying patterns, aspirations and demographics of the handmade sector have changed rapidly. A younger generation with access to information and digital tools is replacing the earlier patronage approach to artisanal practices. The ‘NOW’ gen sees hope in engaging with a sector they feel is inherently sustainable and resilient to climate change.
Creative Dignity has been energizing the handmade ecosystem by employing a holistic mix of locally relevant capacity building; market development and digital access; design mentorship; fostering relevant partnerships; experimenting with and finding innovative ways to communicate and prepare the handmade sector for becoming globally sustainable and relevant. And most importantly, nurturing a network for the informal creative economy.