The appointment of Dr. Darlie Koshy as Vice President of the World Crafts Council International AISBL marks a significant milestone in the global craft movement, bringing to the fore a leader whose career has been defined by vision, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to creativity and skill development. For over four decades, Dr. Koshy has shaped the trajectory of design, textiles, fashion, and handlooms in India and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on institutions, policies, and communities. His new role at WCC AISBL is not only a recognition of his contributions but also a reaffirmation of the organisation’s mission to strengthen the intersection of tradition, innovation, and the creative economy.
Dr. Koshy’s journey in design and education has been one of pioneering leadership. As the fifth Director of the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, he spearheaded transformative initiatives that integrated technology, research, and innovation into design education. His tenure at NID was marked by a forward-looking approach that sought to align design pedagogy with the rapidly changing demands of industry and society. By embedding research and technological advancement into the curriculum, he ensured that NID graduates were not only skilled designers but also innovators capable of addressing complex global challenges. This vision positioned NID as a hub of creativity and problem-solving, reinforcing India’s reputation as a centre for design excellence.
Equally significant was Dr. Koshy’s role in shaping the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) into a globally respected institution. As a founding member of the team that built NIFT, he contributed to its evolution into a premier centre for fashion education, blending traditional Indian textile heritage with contemporary global trends. Under his guidance, NIFT became a crucible for talent, producing generations of designers who have gone on to influence fashion and textile industries worldwide. His emphasis on institutional development and education reform reflected a deep understanding of the role that structured learning environments play in nurturing creativity and innovation.
Beyond institutional leadership, Dr. Koshy has been a thought leader and strategist in design management. His writings and lectures have consistently highlighted the importance of design as a driver of economic growth, cultural identity, and social inclusion. He has argued persuasively for the integration of design thinking into policy frameworks, recognising that creativity and innovation are essential for addressing issues ranging from sustainability to employment generation. His contributions to policy have been acknowledged through numerous national and international honours, underscoring his influence on both academic and practical dimensions of design and skill development.
The World Crafts Council International AISBL, with its mission to support artisans and craft communities worldwide, stands to benefit immensely from Dr. Koshy’s vision and expertise. As Strategic Advisor to WCC AISBL, he has already played a pivotal role in strengthening the organisation’s initiatives, advocating for the preservation of traditional crafts while simultaneously encouraging innovation. His appointment as Vice President formalises this relationship, ensuring that his guidance will continue to shape the Council’s efforts to empower artisans, promote craft heritage, and integrate crafts into the broader creative economy.
Dr. Koshy’s leadership comes at a time when the global craft movement faces both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, traditional crafts are under threat from industrialisation, mass production, and shifting consumer preferences. On the other, there is a growing recognition of the value of handmade, sustainable, and culturally rooted products. The rise of conscious consumerism and the emphasis on sustainability have created new markets for crafts, offering artisans the chance to thrive in a globalised economy. Navigating this complex landscape requires leaders who can balance respect for tradition with openness to innovation—a balance that Dr. Koshy has consistently championed throughout his career.
His vision for the craft sector is rooted in inclusivity and empowerment. By advocating for skill development and capacity building, he has sought to ensure that artisans are not left behind in the march of progress. His initiatives have often focused on creating ecosystems where craftspeople can access training, resources, and markets, enabling them to sustain their livelihoods while preserving their cultural heritage. This approach aligns seamlessly with the mission of WCC AISBL, which has long emphasised the importance of supporting craft communities as custodians of tradition and agents of innovation.
The appointment also underscores the growing importance of India’s role in the global craft and design landscape. With its rich heritage of textiles, handlooms, and crafts, India has always been a vital contributor to the world’s creative economy. Leaders like Dr. Koshy have ensured that this heritage is not only preserved but also reimagined for contemporary relevance. His work has consistently highlighted the potential of Indian crafts to engage with global markets, offering products that are both culturally authentic and commercially viable. In doing so, he has positioned India as a leader in the dialogue between tradition and modernity.
As Vice President of WCC AISBL, Dr. Koshy is expected to bring his wealth of experience to bear on initiatives that promote cross-cultural collaboration, innovation in craft practices, and the integration of crafts into broader economic and social frameworks. His appointment is a testament to the Council’s recognition of the need for visionary leadership in advancing its mission. It also reflects a broader acknowledgment of the role that design and crafts play in shaping societies, economies, and identities.
The significance of this appointment extends beyond organisational leadership. It is a symbolic moment for the global craft movement, highlighting the importance of individuals who can bridge the gap between tradition and innovation. Dr. Koshy’s career has been defined by this very ability—to honour the past while envisioning the future, to respect heritage while embracing change. His leadership promises to inspire not only artisans and designers but also policymakers, educators, and communities who recognise the transformative power of creativity.
In congratulating Dr. Koshy, the World Crafts Council International AISBL has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing creativity, skills, and inclusive growth. The organisation’s warm welcome reflects the esteem in which he is held and the anticipation of the contributions he will make in his new role. For artisans and craft communities worldwide, his appointment offers the promise of continued support, advocacy, and innovation. For the broader creative economy, it signals the presence of a leader who understands the complexities of tradition and modernity and is prepared to navigate them with vision and integrity.
Dr. Darlie Koshy’s appointment as Vice President of WCC AISBL is not merely a recognition of past achievements; it is an investment in the future of crafts, design, and creativity. His leadership will undoubtedly strengthen the Council’s mission, empower artisans, and contribute to the global dialogue on the role of crafts in shaping sustainable and inclusive societies. In a world that increasingly values authenticity, sustainability, and cultural identity, his vision offers a roadmap for harnessing the power of creativity to build a better future.
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