Renowned Australian fashion designer Michelle Jank collaborated with embroidery artisan Ashok Ladiwal to create a one off gown to celebrate the talents of Indian artisans and to raise funds for children of India.

Michelle Jank at the Pratap bazaar studio in India

“On arrival in the midst of Holi I met with Ashok, an extraordinary man of great talent who, for five generations, has carried the mantle of his ancestors embroidery trade providing exquisite clothes and backdrops (sringara) for many of the Gods (deities) of not only temples in Vrindavan but worldwide,” says Jank.

Michelle and Ashok Ladiwal choosing colours at Ashok’s studio in India

Ashok Ladiwal is a fifth generation embroidery artisan based in Vrindavan, India. His exquisite work has been showcased in the Golden Eye exhibition among others. He is renowned for his work for sringar for Deities and has been quietly working on his craft at his Pratap bazaar studio.

At work at the Pratap bazaar studio.

“It really was such a magical time, as you say all of the five elements… what a truly life broadening wonderful time. I am so grateful for having had a window into something so few people have the fortune of being able to witness.. truly amazing. I feel very blessed,” says Jank.

Michelle Jank at work on one of her pieces

An auction of one of Michelle Jank’s couture gowns (with special thanks to UTS and Alana Clifton-Cunningham for the lining of the gown) has been organised to raise money for the orphanages of Udayan Care India. Enquiries about bidding for this gown at auction should be made to Julie Lantry at Julie@julielantry.com.au

Michelle Jank’s gown up for auction