Bazaar Special Event: Kutch Weaving Presentation with Rajan Bhimji Vankar

About this special event

Discover the rich cultural heritage, symbolism and artistry of Kutch weaving in a special presentation with Rajan, whose journey with textiles spans generations of tradition and more than 20 countries.

Drawing on his deep connection to his community’s weaving heritage, Rajan will share the stories and meanings woven into traditional symbols, including the Chomukh, the Dhunglo and the Saat-Kanni. He’ll also take you behind the scenes of his experiences at international craft markets, offering a unique perspective on how this enduring tradition travels, connects cultures and finds new audiences around the world.

Facilitated by Gaëlle Beech, founder of The ANJELMS Project, this is a wonderful opportunity to gain insight into a living craft tradition, hear directly from a practising artisan, and discover the stories behind the textiles.

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase Rajan’s textiles ahead of his participation as a stallholder at Bazaar Makers Market (Friday 4 December – Sunday 6 December).

Light refreshments provided.

A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY FOR EMERGING ARTISTS

Two complimentary places are reserved for emerging and student textile and weaving artists, available by application.

To apply, please submit 150–300 words outlining your textile and weaving education (formal and informal), your artistic practice, and how you feel this presentation would benefit your creative journey. You’re welcome to include links to your work and supporting photographs.

Please email your application to bazaar@fremantle.wa.gov.au by 5pm, 16 November.

About RaJan BHimji Vankar

Rajan is an award-winning, internationally renowned master weaver from the Kutch region of Gujarat, India. Using Desi and pure fine Merino wool, handspun Tussar and Eri silks, and indigenous Kala cotton, he creates scarves, stoles, shawls, and blankets that serve as symbols of his heritage. The colours he uses tell the story of his land – from the muted earth tones that mirror the desert landscape, to the cool blues that recall the rare, life-giving rains, to the hot pinks and neon oranges that capture the vibrant spirit of his people.

Rajan has participated in 25 craft markets globally since 2019, including the International Folk Art Market (Santa Fe) in 2022. He has lectured on Kutch weaving in the USA, France, Poland, and Switzerland. His visit to Walyalup/Fremantle will be his first time in Australia.

In his own words:

“For us, weaving is more than just a trade; it’s the heartbeat of our community, a thread that ties us to our ancestors and to each other. I am Rajan Bhimji Vankar, a fourth-generation weaver from the village of Sarli. My journey with weaving began as a child, watching my father and grandfather in our family workshop, their hands moving with a grace and rhythm that seemed to come from deep within their souls. The loom became my playground, the threads my toys. By the time I reached my early twenties, the loom was no longer just a part of my world – it was my world. And though I am still young, I have been blessed to be recognized as a master of this ancient craft.”

About Gaëlle Beech

Gaëlle’s journey love for textiles was sparked by a summer job at Hermès, where she developed an appreciation for craftsmanship and storytelling in design. After various fashion roles in Australia, including positions at Ralph Lauren and other brands, Gaëlle advocates for thoughtful purchasing, caring for possessions, and promoting recycling, reusing, and repairing as key aspects of sustainability. She aims to use clothing as a means for social change and cultural preservation, facilitating connections among artisans, emerging creatives, and those with untapped potential through The ANJELMS Project.

The ANJELMS Project is an ethical and sustainable fashion brand based in Walyalup/Fremantle. They honour traditional techniques like hand-looming, block-printing, and hand-stitching, while ensuring that the makers of their clothing receive fair wages for their work.

She has participated as a stallholder in Bazaar artisan markets for many years, including 2026.

Building Accessibility

Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre is a heritage-listed building with access limitations. While there are no lift facilities within the main building, the ceramics studio is wheelchair accessible. We acknowledge these limitations and are committed to improving accessibility where possible. We continue to explore ways to make our programs more inclusive and encourage you to reach out if you have any questions.