Spinning a Magic Yarn

Published on February 14, 2025 in Open The Magazine under the “A Day With A Designer” series, “Spinning a Magic Yarn” offers an intimate look into Ashdeen Z. Lilaowala’s creative world. At his Noida studio, visitors first encounter tracing-paper installations that trace the legendary journey of Parsi Gara embroidery-from India to China and back-visualizing maritime voyages, cultural exchanges, and the craft’s rich narrative potential.

For Ashdeen, Parsi Gara is not just a technique-it’s an aesthetic that allows him to transform narratives into tangible, embroidered realities. His studio doubles as an archive and a source of inspiration: vintage sewing machines, textile art, and a curated collection of Parsi Gara textiles-some over 200 years old-populate the space, reflecting his dedication to both heritage and innovation.

The feature also highlights a forthcoming saree-length installation, richly embroidered in white threads over indigo, slated for display at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), which brings the craft into a storytelling installation format.

Read More: https://openthemagazine.com/art-culture/spinning-a-magic-yarn/