
Themes
tribal artefacts
Splitting technique of bamboo craft, gujarat

The bamboo craft of Kotawalia tribe serves as a living testimony to the cultural heritage and artistic ingenuity of the community. The main techniques associated with their craft include weaving, splitting, and shaping; and these are applied for producing various functional items and decorative pieces. Such practices not only ensure the continuity of tradition but also lead to the economy's sustainability. By marrying traditional techniques and methods with modern innovations, Kotawalia artists strive to sustain this craft in contemporary markets. Splitting is the most important technique in bamboo working, whereby bamboo stems are cut into pieces of sub-specifications using any blade or saw.

The strips so obtained will be categorized based on thickness, where thinner strips are preferably used for basketry, while thicker strips are earmarked for mad-making. It requires an accurate approach since it adds to the versatility of bamboo crafts at large. The bamboo craft techniques of the Kotawalia tribe draw their contours from their skill and creativity, which are consummately tied to their tradition. It is in this process that cutting and soaking are included in the skill preparation techniques of the artisans themselves to condition flexibility in the bamboo stems. One of their techniques is weaving, where strips of bamboo are intricately interlaced into diverse forms of patterns. Most designs reflect the identity of the people, merging tradition and modern design.

The artisans also employ diagonal and straight weaving to make items such as baskets, mats, and household tools that meet daily requirements. Some decorative bamboo items fit more closely into Kotwalia craftsmanship. They include vases, wall decors, and ornaments for use in festivals, which really showcase the artistic talent of the tribe. Though made beautiful, these items are usually closely patterned, carrying much weightage in culture. Modern techniques and designs have been experimented with, setting up the demand in the market. These serve dual purposes, acting as cultural symbols and income earners for the community.