When Lakshmi Menon was working in a gallery in the US, she was inspired to introduce something truly unique to the world of art. Thus, the idea of straw art was born. Recognizing the potential for creating attractive designs on cards and fabrics using straw, she sought out training from Babu, an artist based in Kollam.
Armed with raw materials and tools, Lakshmi ventured back to the US and began experimenting with straw art on various mediums, including wedding cards, jewelry, and fabric. This innovative approach captured the imagination of the public, and Lakshmi aptly named her creation “hay art,” as she felt it encapsulated the essence of the craft more fully.
Beyond straw, Lakshmi’s artistic endeavors extended to other mediums such as paper, glass, fabrics, metal, and timber. Her talent and creativity caught the attention of DC Books, who commissioned her to recreate M. Mukundan’s novel ‘Pravasam’ in hay art form. Additionally, prestigious firms like Radisson sought her expertise to create souvenirs and gift pieces using hay art techniques.
The success of hay art encouraged Lakshmi to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Kerala’s traditional art and culture. She recognized the potential for local items to garner global attention, offering a unique alternative to mass-produced goods. One such product she championed was ‘Ammoommathiri,’ leveraging the storytelling aspect and social angle to enhance its appeal in the US market.
Drawing from her experience in San Francisco, where handmade items command significant value, Lakshmi understood the importance of storytelling and craftsmanship in elevating the perceived value of artisanal products. Despite the higher prices associated with handmade goods, she found a receptive audience willing to invest in quality craftsmanship and unique narratives.
Reflecting on her journey, Lakshmi recalls the satisfaction of earning a respectable income from her artistry, even two decades ago. Her wedding cards, priced at $20 apiece, demonstrated the value placed on handmade items in the US market, a sentiment she hopes to replicate in promoting Kerala’s rich artistic heritage through hay art.
