Queering Textiles
by Smruthi Manai
Mangalore
Project Description
a digital kantha exhibit reimagining queer futures through craft—co-created with artisans and storytellers to build a living archive of queer narratives in indian textiles in collaboration with Ritika
Expected Impact
the project restores indian craft as a living, inclusive language by embedding queer narratives into kantha. globally, it contributes to decolonial design, queer archiving, and craft innovation.
Applicant Background
through my work as co-founder of manai and counterfeit, i have consistently explored the intersection of craft, identity, and culture. manai focuses on transforming textile waste—especially sarees—into avant-garde, story-driven garments rooted in indian materiality. counterfeit, my second initiative co-founded with Ritika Jathaar, blends indian craft techniques with streetwear sensibilities to challenge dominant aesthetics and reframe cultural authenticity. this journey has allowed me to build strong relationships with stakeholders across the craft ecosystem, production vendors, and design researchers. at the same time, my presence in queer creative networks—across india’s urban hubs—has given me intimate access to stories, communities, and lived experiences that are often undocumented. these connections now serve as both a resource and responsibility, enabling me to carry out this research with cultural sensitivity, real-world insight, and deep care. https://manai.co.in https://counterfeitbymanai.com
Resources Needed
- Funding
- Mentorship
- Visibility
Support This Project
Connect with Smruthi or learn more about the project or support in making this come to life.