About us

Our Story
Vision & Mission
Values
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Like many new age movements, Creative Dignity was launched in a modest way on a WhatsApp group.

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. 

The Artisan sector is important as:

With an estimated 200 million people directly or indirectly linked to this sector, and over 50% participation of women, handmade production continues to be one of the primary means of dignified employment among informal rural communities.

The Artisan sector is important as:

The models of production in the artisan sector offer exemplary examples of adaptable pathways to build on inclusive, equitable and ecologically balanced local value chains. Resilience to climate change is the next crisis for the Network to address collectively.
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OUR VISION

A world where artisans have the agency to thrive with dignity.

OUR MISSION

Enabling knowledge, tools and networks for artisans to be equal stakeholders in creating regenerative economies.

OUR VALUES & GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Artisan at the center

At all times and in all our endeavours, we will keep the artisan at the center. Every opportunity and activity will be evaluated by the impact it has on the artisan through a set of metrics.

Collaborate not compete

We will collaborate with transparency and not compete with one another. We will not use another’s idea, design, IP, people or process without permission. We will seek to co-create value with others. We will amplify and celebrate each other’s work.

Trust

We will trust each other unless someone gives us a reason not to. We will be respectful in every way, choosing kindness and generosity as our ethos.

Open source

We will openly share information, data, opportunities, knowledge, skills, and networks with each other. We will build on each other’s work, rather than reinvent the wheel.

Accountability

As CD is a self-governed, self-motivated, and self-driven movement, we will operate with the fullest integrity and remain accountable for our behaviour, words, and actions.