The Embassy of Israel in New Delhi is proud to facilitate a remarkable cross-cultural exchange in the field of fashion and design. The Fashion Design Department of the University of Haifa recently concluded a nine-day study trip to India, blending innovation, sustainability, and traditional craftsmanship.
Led by the Head of the Department, Dr. Rachel Getz Salomon, and lecturer Tamara Efrat, the group of students took part in an intensive program of workshops, research, and creative collaborations. The visit was part of their course “Fashion Studio – Craft Smart Technologies”, aimed at exploring the intersection of heritage craft and contemporary design.
The students collaborated with ‘Instant Karma’, an advanced technology factory in Delhi, where they learned about sustainable design practices and created clothing sets—combining hand-crafted pieces with technologically manufactured items.
In collaboration with the JD Academy of Textiles and Fashion, arranged with the support of Ms. Avital Barak, Cultural Attaché at the Israel Embassy in New Delhi, the students spent a day at the academy. They attended a lecture, toured the campus, and participated in a batik workshop to further enhance their understanding of traditional textile methods.
The journey continued to Jaipur city in Rajasthan, where the students were immersed in the state’s renowned textile heritage. They explored its rich block-printing industry and took part in hands-on workshops, including tie-dye, embroidery, and local printing techniques, gaining first-hand experience of India’s celebrated artisanal traditions.
Dr. Rachel Getz Salomon said: “I welcome this wonderful collaboration. India is an empire of inspiration for designers and artists. It is a place where craft is alive and kicking and is at the heart of culture and society. For us, this is an unforgettable experience and I sincerely thank the Israeli Cultural Attaché in New Delhi, the JD Academy, and the Instant Karma factory for this opportunity. I hope this collaboration will continue and I very much look forward to coming here next year.”
The Embassy of Israel in India is committed to promote meaningful partnerships that boost cultural exchange, creativity, and innovation. This partnership stands as a testament to the growing people-to-people relations between India and Israel.