South Asian Design Exhibition

A beautiful south Asian exhibition at Manchester art gallery that was a celebration of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka culture all mixed in one. This was a showcase of what south Asian countries have to offer, from the opulent fabrics to the rich earthy colours and detailed ceramic, stone and metal ornaments. With high expectations hoping not to be disappointed I recently had the pleasure to visit the exhibition to see what the fuss was about. And this so called fuss was all worth it.

Each collection was rich with its vibrant regional costumes, luxurious textiles and beautiful bold colours and detailed patterns. The mix of contemporary and traditional crafts infused in the collection of arts, design and fashion creates a beautiful balance of the old and new.

Highlights included work from fashion designers Tarun Tahiliani and Manish Arora. Two very different styles of fashion design, the first being traditional Indian wear with its rich opulent fabric and colours. And the second a contemporary high fashion piece which plays on bright contrasting colours. I found the contrast of these styles very interesting in the way it was displayed in the exhibition one side being contemporary and the other traditional. Other interesting highlights included the contemporary toy chair by Rubberland. This simple `product design was a true representation of 21th century contemporary design with its bold bright colour and modern details. A beautiful eye-catching piece of design that would sit perfectly in my minimalist interior.

Another favourite of mine was the xylem pendant light by Cobalt design. This innovative light design has a stunningly bold colour contrast of a pure white outer shall and a rich bronze reflective interior.

Every bit of fashion, textiles and product design in this beautifully crafted exhibition was full of layers and intricate design which was a true representation of each regions culture, vibrant colours and ornate shapes.

A highly recommended exhibition that every art and design lover will adore!