Development of Traditional Pattachitra Art by 3D Printing Technique for Fashion: A Hybrid Creation

Abstract : In India, many native arts and crafts have been steadily disappearing from artisan communities. Pattachitra of Odisha happens to be one of them. The decline of this most intricate painting art is primarily attributed to it being too labour-intensive.

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Lack of availability of appropriately skilled labour is also contributing to its decline (1). Therefore, an attempt was made to revive and give a new dimension to this traditional art by utilising recent advances in printing technologies. This has resulted in hybrid art creations using technologies of 3D printing. The primary intention of this research is to help revive and introduce this traditional Pattachitra art in modern fashion through the adaptation of 3D printing technology. Application of 3D printing technology in traditional art can produce hybrid creations, which may be a game-changer for the fashion industry (2). The designs were developed taking inspiration from original Pattachitra motifs. Finally, a fashion product was made using 3D printing technology. Further, a survey was conducted to assess the acceptability of consumers and designers towards this innovative idea of coupling traditional art with the latest technology. The research findings concluded that a significant percentage of consumers liked the idea. Designers are inspired to apply this traditional art and technology in the near future.Keywords: Pattachitra, dying art, 3D printing and hybrid creation

1. Introduction

As the fashion industry is constantly exploring new ideas and experimenting with new materials, 3D printing technology is one which allows for the once impossible to be made possible. Now, 3D technology equips designers with more creative freedom. Designers are now able to create products that once seemed too complex and expensive to manufacture using traditional techniques. Furthermore, with 3D printing, one can design clothes with intricate patterns. As the Pattachitra art form is known for its intricate details, it renders itself naturally to 3D printing. Ease in replicating highly detailed patterns makes the mass production of fashion merchandise possible