In the heart of Meghalaya, where ancient forests whisper stories of old, I embarked on a journey with Eri silk that has become deeply personal. This project isn't just about creating a material; it’s about honouring a tradition that is as resilient as the silk itself.

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Known locally as ryndia, Eri silk is cherished in Meghalaya for its weather-resistant properties and soft, cotton-like feel. The silkworm’s life cycle is a wonder—spinning a continuous thread to form a cocoon, which I harvest only after the moth has emerged. The silk’s distinctive qualities come from sericin, a natural protein that binds the fibers together, making the material both strong and supple.

This approach preserves the silk’s unique texture and strength, making it a material unlike any other.

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Once I carefully degum the cocoons, softening the fibers, I stretch these delicate strands over a smooth glass surface, crafting a layer that is both fragile and robust. To enhance the silk’s natural qualities, I apply a bio-polymer derived from seaweed, which adds flexibility and enriches the texture. The result is a material that flows seamlessly over both flat surfaces and the rounded forms of handblown bottles.​

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This versatile material finds applications across various fields, including furniture design, fashion, and surface finishes. 

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Connection to Community and Environment

This project is about more than just material creation; it’s deeply intertwined with the communities of Meghalaya who have practiced Eri silk production for generations. By collaborating with local artisans, I help preserve this age-old craft and ensure a stable income for these communities. This work not only sustains their livelihoods but also plays a crucial role in forest conservation.

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As more tribal people migrate to urban areas, the forests they leave behind face the threat of deforestation. My efforts aim to keep these communities—and myself—connected to our natural environment, allowing us to continue our traditional practices and promote ecological balance.