CARRY SOMETHING SPECIAL
Traditional embroidery has always had a role in the world. It has always been a visual statement of skill. It has always been an expression of beauty. It has always worked to transform a plain piece of cloth into something extraordinary.
Maiwa has collaborated with tribal embroiderers to bring the most skillful work into being. These all have one thing in common. They were designed to showcase needlework in a way that can be used on a daily basis.
We use these items ourselves, and when we do we realize why so many cultures see embroidery as auspicious. There is nothing like the feeling of carrying something exceptional in your hand. A little wonder in your everyday.
We have a limited number of exceptional exhibition pieces. This work is recommended for museums, galleries and art centres to teach about the embroidery process. These pieces have retained the unfinished backing showing all threadwork. They have also retained the original raw edging. They tell a story – like a canvas before the frame.
BOOKS WE'VE WRITTEN
Maiwa's commitment to embroidery and embroiderers goes deep. In 2003 we published Through The Eye of a Needle: Stories from an Indian Desert to document the embroidery communities in Kachchh.
And in 2016, Maiwa authors Charllotte Kwon and Tim McLaughlin published Textiles of the Banjara: Cloth and Culture of a Wandering Tribe with Thames and Hudson.
THE EMBROIDERERS OF KACHCHH
The proud stitch-heritage of the Kachchh region shows in every thread of these embroideries. Many ethnic groups are famous for their needlework: Dhebaria and Kutchi Rabari, Dhanetah Jats, Sodha Rajputs, and Mutwa. Each group has a traditional repertoire of figure and motif. These embroideries bring the richness of desert cultures into your hands — heirlooms for the future.
THE BANJARA
A semi-nomadic group found throughout the Indian subcontinent, are renowned for their highly colourful textiles. Embellished with mirrors, shells, & intricate embroidery, Banjara work displays a surprisingly modern aesthetic. It’s a celebration of the strength of the women who practice it.
To our U.S. customers – don't forget that the exchange rate works in your favour, it's like an extra discount.