I sincerely believe some of the best talent in this country lies hidden in the rural parts - away from the world because of minimal marketing and almost zero online presence. Treasures like intricate terracotta pottery, blue and white ceramics, large wood carvings or paintings on silk are sold at exorbitant prices in famous handicraft shops such as Poompuhar in Tamil Nadu or Cauvery in Bangalore. One thing typical of these folks is they are content with what they create, at the price they sell totally oblivious of how much money their creations make in the cities. So, it’s a pleasant surprise when I come across someone business savvy enough to at least make an attempt to reach out to the world by hiring a basic web designer to let us know they exist. And, that helps. I know there are many companies in the Western belt (primarily Rajasthan) who make a killing because they export in bulk. That’s organized business for them. I’m talking more about the talented, unorganized ones all around the country who have a hard time making a living.

I spotted these terracotta candle stands from RM Terracotta and was impressed by his product line. I called up the gentleman for a price list.  Though he has an e-mail address listed on the website, he insisted on sending the price list by speed post.  Never mind, I loved what I saw and had to share it..so here you go.  Yea, I have a weakness for anything pottery, ceramics … bright ones at that.

Candle Stands

Wall Hanging Vases

Look at the detailing in these wall hanging pots.. it’s more folksy. I’m not sure if he customizes for you but it would be nice to create a entire scene around the pot - like Worli art.

Candle Stands

Some more cute li’l candle stands.

Image Courtesy:

RM Teracotta

All’s not been well here.  Over the past 10 days, the stubborn cold virus has been doing the rounds with each of us taking ill in turns; the family is slowly limping back to normalcy. However, I did find sometime on those long afternoons (when not under the influence of cough syrup) to add some cheer and color to the home. Blame it on the festive season

A while ago, I wrote about two terracotta pots I picked on the roadside, one of which I painted with zebra stripes. The other one has got a fresh lease of life too. The tree is inspired by a similar design on a Worli bedsheet.

Worli painting on a terracotta planter

Orange Pomander : During my recent trip to Trichy, I frequented a old books exhibition that had a HUGE collection of design and interior design books. One UK magazine that I grew fond of (can’t recollect the name) was about gardening and growing house plants; every issue was merely a few pages thick and I doubt if the magazine is still in circulation. An interesting and detailed article on how to make your own orange pomanders at home inspired me to try one at home. The one you see in the picture hasn’t yet dried.

Orange Pomander

And, finally another ivy in yet another recycled planter. The handi is from KC Das that originally contained mishti dahi. I didn’t want to throw it, so I cut a Bisleri bottle, filled with potting sand, and planted it with a small money plant.

Ivy in a handi