In an era of where the discerning fashion savant is selecting sustainability over fast fashion, Tina Edward Gunawardhana speaks to designers who champion the use of handloom fabric in their collections
On ce a vibrant industry that spun money to swell the coffers of Sri Lanka, the handloom industry nosedived several decades ago with the advent of a free economy. Sidelined in favour of imported clothing which was deemed more fashionable especially after years of being deprived of imported readymade clothing, the handloom industry has struggled to reach the pinnacle it once enjoyed.
Boasting a rich heritage in weaving, Sri Lankan artisans created beautiful fabrics which required meticulous planning, attention to detail and infinite skills, thus showcasing the talents of the country’s artisans.
Identifying the intrinsic artistic value of this heritage craft, visionary individuals such as Barbara Sansoni, Chandramani Thenuwara, Sita Yahampath, Selyn Wanduragala and many others have worked tirelessly to revive the handloom industry for a multitude of reasons. While these individuals have reached the twilight of their careers the mantle of taking their journey forward rests on a new generation of designers and innovative thinkers.
Taking the responsibility of carrying on her mother Selyn Wanduragala’s 30 year vision, Selyna Peiris, the Head of Business Development at Selyn sees the immense potential the handloom industry offers. Selyna says “handloom has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage; globally there is a huge focus on the nature of this craft. In Sri Lanka, the techniques behind the craft itself has stood the test of time and has remained consistent and unchanged, give or take the developments of dyes, colours and vibrant mixing of patterns.”
Stressing the importance of keeping this age old industry alive, Selyna stresses that there are still thousands of people in rural Sri Lanka that depend on this as their main source of income despite the many obstacles faced by the industry. “The impact Covid-19 has had on this sector is devastating as it is linked very much to tourism industry locally – so you can imagine the negative impact it has had on the weavers. This industry needs to uplift the artisans who are part of it and that includes giving them competitive remuneration for their work. Unless we take handloom to a premium market where it can be valued for the craft it is, then we may not be able to retain our weavers or get younger people to join the industry.”
Words: Tina Edward Gunawardhana.
