Virtual exhibition in support of weavers, artisans
Like other smallscale industries, handloom and handicraft communities also faced a huge financial crisis during the lockdown. For the first time after the lockdown, to support the weavers’ community, GoCoop, India’s first online marketplace for weavers and artisans, is hosting an online exhibition called Go Swadeshi Online. The 7-day online event that will end on May 27 is aimed at helping artisans and reinstate the pride in hand-spun, hand-woven and handcrafted products. “We will be showcasing a wide range of exquisite and authentic handloom sarees, fabrics, dress materials, stoles, dupattas, menswear and home decor products by weavers and artisans from across the country. As COVID-19 continues its spread, lockdowns and the resulting supply chain disruptions have significantly impacted the economy globally, especially the micro, small and medium enterprises. India has over 10 million weavers and artisans who are severely impacted due to a shutdown of sales and production activities, resulting in a loss of livelihoods. Through this online exhibition, we hope to support artisans liquidate their stocks to sustain themselves and to help the sector
The 7-day online event will end on May 27 and is aimed at helping artisans and reinstate the pride in handspun, hand-woven and handcrafted products
recover from the impact of COVID19,” says Siva Devireddy, founder of GoCoop.
He says that the collection is a perfect mix of contemporary and traditional handlooms. “On our social media page, we are also sharing the details of the weaver or artisan who have collaborated with us. That way, the consumer will get to know who made their products,” he adds.