WOOD CRAFT AND CARPENTRY IN SILLANWALI: EXPLORING THE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS OF THE ARTISANS

Handicrafts are getting tremendously popular in the global market. Many developing countries are exporting handicrafts to the developed world, creating a new source of revenue and employment. Sillanwali in Pakistan is famous for its handicrafts and has always fascinated people with keen interest in handicrafts and traditional furniture. Sillanwali is known throughout Pakistan and at international level for its wooden handicrafts with colorful geometric patterns and oriental designs. The current research is a qualitative analysis of occupation of carpentry which involves the knowledge, skills, techniques and tools adopted by handicraft makers. Utilization of these handicrafts is not only for practical purposes but also decorative. It is an attempt to explore a renowned wood work being done in the district for over decades. The data was collected through participant observation and in depth; interviews of 45 workers and owners of Sillanwali handicraft main market. The results indicate that the artisans involved with the occupation have majorly chosen the field on need rather than interest basis. The profession skill and techniques are passed on to the next generation; thus lack of access to global economy, knowledge regarding profitability of new trends and designs severely hinders the industries growth.