GOA CRAFTS

CRAFTS OF GOA

Goa has its own tradition in the field of crafts.

Pottery and Terracota

Smooth shining surface and red color adds a charm and a touch of perfection to the Goan pottery. Household items and Objets d’art (Objects of art) are equally available. These include flower vases, panels and figurines. The subjects of such artifacts are usually children playing, old man and woman in company and the like. The icons are of religious content mostly. Bicholim and Borde are famed for pottery.

Ceramics

Ceramic objects, both domestic and artistic are traditionally crafted in Goa. These include pen holders, ashtrays, bowls, statues of saints etc.

Wood work

Wood carving is a traditional thing in Goa. The Portuguese influence has sharpened the skill. The superb furniture’s produced are exported. Floral, human and animal themes are seen in the carvings in oriental style. The main sites are Verem, Bardez and Cuncolim.

Brass and metal craft

A number of household and objects of art are made in Brass and copper. Sheets of copper are used to fashion the utensils. Forging with molten brass is an art practiced traditionally. Oil lambs, cooking wares, bells and a number of other useful articles made in metal are available.

Crochet and Embroidery

Crochet and Embroidery is also part of a prestigious tradition in Goa. The crochet and the embroidery items brought home by the bride are proudly displayed in front of the guests usually. The items include bed-sheets, table clothes, handkerchief, garments, pillow cover etc. Innovations in the design and make are tried with new generations.

Bamboo Craft

Bamboo can be shaped into numerous articles of varying size and use in daily life. It involves splitting bamboo with hacksaw blade, bending this over slow fire, and braiding to tie into various shapes as needed. The out come is an excellent bio friendly article. This art is practiced all over Goa. Chairs, window hangings, baskets, sieves for washing grains, floorings, mats etc are made from Bamboo. With the improved modern techniques taught by the government this industry is reaching new heights in recent times.

Lacquer ware and wood turning

The wood is shaped into common objects as vases cups etc on a lathe. Cradles, corner stands etc are made this way.

Fiber craft

Keralite nuns introduced this into Goa. Banana or sisal fiber is used in making of hand bags, purses, wall hangings etc .This is gaining popularity in Goa.

Jute macramé craft

Lamp shades, flower pots, hangers etc are made of Jute macramé.

Sea shell craft

Household items as lampoons, shades, hangings, frames, chandeliers, curtains etc are fashioned out of raw materials from sea as conch, shells etc.

Coconut mask carving

Mask carving has won the attention of the Goans recently.