The International conference 'Textiles and Apparel: Fashion the Future'

January 12th-13th 2004:

Department of Textile & Fashion Technology, Nirmala Niketan, 49 New Marine Lines, Mumbai-400020

The Future in the World of Fashion:

Dr. (Mrs.) Parul Bhatnagar

Faculty of Arts
Dayalbagh Educational Institute
(Deemed University)
Dayalbagh, Agra.

Artisans and craftsmen have played a pivotal role in traditional designing since
prehistoric times. The dates when specific patterns in traditional designs appear and
reappear are illuminating, for they help to show how motifs and styles repeat themselves.
To be original in design is to make the best use of the old vocabulary of traditional
designs. A fresh modification of the old motif, ornamentation or design is generally how
innovation is accepted in traditional Indian textiles.

Traditional designs go back to mankind’s earliest times and belong to a very old
tradition of symbols. Like other art forms, traditional textile designs also link the past with
the present. Contemporary textile designs reflect our spirit, our consciousness and the
vibrancy of the society in which we live A few designs have been created by digitizing the
traditional design symbols and modifying them into similar new forms using specialized
computer technology, reflecting the fusion of modern technology with traditional art.

The traditional textile design symbols may now be digitally modified, according to
need and function. This capability will enrich the library of traditional art symbols and
give a fresh direction and a new dimension to the revival of traditional Indian design. It is
hoped that this will lead to a renaissance in the field of traditional textile designing; it
should increase awareness about our rich cultural heritage and also serve the world of
fashion.

Authors corresponding address:

parulpb@gmail.com, parulpb@yahoo.com
09319127091