Darpan
Ab ke Baras: Art Marries Utility in a New Range of Diwali Gifts
Article Title:Â Ab ke Baras
Magazine: Darpan Magazine
Issue Date: October–November 2005
Featured Designers: Mukul GoyalÂ
Article Overview
The article Ab ke Baras explores a growing trend in contemporary Indian design where everyday functional objects are transformed into artistic creations. Published during the festive season, the feature focuses on innovative home décor and gift products designed for Diwali, highlighting how Indian designers are redefining utility through creativity.
The article argues that ordinary household objects no longer need to be purely functional. Designers are increasingly turning common items into conversation pieces that combine practicality, craftsmanship, and artistic expression.
The Rise of Functional Art
The article opens by describing how familiar household objects can be reimagined in unexpected ways:
- Staplers transformed into whales.
- Tape dispensers shaped like dolphins.
- Decorative storage objects with sculptural qualities.
- Functional furniture and accessories that double as art pieces.
The author explains that these products represent a new design movement where artists and product designers seek to enhance everyday experiences through imaginative design.
According to the article, redesigned products were increasingly entering the market and attracting consumers looking for distinctive home and office accessories.
Examples of Innovative Design
Sculptural Book Holder
A brass-cast and nickel-plated book holder supported by two stylized human figures, transforming a basic utility object into a decorative centerpiece.
The article suggests that these products bring personality into otherwise ordinary interiors and reflect a growing appreciation for design-led living.
Mukul Goyal’s Design Philosophy
A significant portion of the article focuses on Mukul Goyal, a graduate of the:
National Institute of Design
The article describes him as a designer with an extensive collection of home accessories, including:
- Book holders
- Tissue holders
- Coasters
- Photo frames
- Decorative objects
- Gift items
According to Goyal, creativity alone is not enough. He emphasizes that products must satisfy practical needs while also standing out in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The article quotes his belief that:
- Design must solve a problem.
- Products must serve a clear purpose.
- Creativity should support functionality rather than replace it.
Design as a Marketing Tool
One of the most interesting stories shared in the article involves a corporate branding project.
A client wanted a creative way to promote a zipper brand through a marketing campaign. Goyal’s solution was to:
- Take a dry coconut shell.
- Divide it into two halves.
- Connect the halves with a zipper.
The resulting product functioned as a multipurpose container while simultaneously serving as a memorable advertisement for the brand.
The article presents this example as evidence of how thoughtful design can become an effective communication and marketing tool.
Utility Remains the Priority
Although artistic expression is celebrated throughout the article, Goyal stresses that utility remains the most important consideration.
The article notes that a product should be:
- Visually appealing
- Durable
- Efficient
- Functional
- User-friendly
The message is clear: successful design balances beauty with practicality.
Featured Product: ID Bowl by Mukul Goyal
The article prominently showcases Mukul Goyal’s ID Bowl.
Product Details
Product Name: ID Bowl
Designer: Mukul Goyal
Design Features
The bowl is supported by stylized human figures, creating the illusion that the figures are physically carrying the vessel.
According to the product description:
- Made from nickel-plated brass.
- Bowl constructed using black Teflon-coated material.
- Can serve as a decorative centerpiece.
- Functions as a serving bowl.
The design perfectly illustrates the article’s theme of blending sculpture and utility.
Key Themes of the Article
The article repeatedly emphasizes several important ideas:
1. Everyday Objects Can Be Art
Ordinary products can become visually engaging and emotionally appealing through thoughtful design.
2. Function Comes First
Even the most artistic products must remain useful and durable.
3. Design Creates Market Value
Creative design can enhance product appeal and strengthen brand communication.
4. Indian Designers Are Innovating
Designers such as Mukul Goyal are helping redefine contemporary Indian product design.
5. Tradition and Modernity Can Coexist
Modern materials and manufacturing techniques can successfully incorporate traditional Indian artistic influences.
Explore More
About Mukul Goyal
Design Philosophy
Product Collections
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