Preserving the Soul of Indian Handicrafts: An Exclusive Interview with Sushila Vaishnav, Founder of KB ART



In an age dominated by mass production and disposable décor, a growing global audience is rediscovering the value of craftsmanship, heritage, and authenticity. From the heart of Rajasthan’s historic Blue City,
Jodhpur, KB ART is emerging as a name synonymous with timeless Indian artistry blended seamlessly with contemporary design. Founded by Sushila Vaishnav, KB ART is not just a manufacturing unit—it is a cultural bridge connecting skilled local artisans with discerning buyers across the world.

In this exclusive interview, Sushila Vaishnav shares the journey of KB ART, its philosophy, milestones, and vision for the future of Indian handicrafts on a global stage.

Q: Sushila ji, could you tell us about KB ART and what inspired its journey?

KB ART was born in Jodhpur, a city deeply rooted in royal history, architecture, and craftsmanship. Growing up surrounded by carved havelis, jali windows, and skilled artisans, I always felt that these traditions deserved a larger platform. KB ART is our way of preserving and presenting the artistic legacy of Rajasthan to the world.

We specialize in authentic Indian handicrafts, including solid wood furniture, home décor, wall art, and traditional artifacts. Our core inspiration lies in blending the soul of the Thar Desert’s craftsmanship with modern functionality, ensuring our pieces fit beautifully into contemporary homes while retaining their cultural essence.

Q: What materials and techniques define KB ART’s craftsmanship?

Material integrity is extremely important to us. We primarily work with 100% solid Sheesham (Indian Rosewood) and Mango wood, both known for their durability and natural beauty. All our wood is seasoned and treated in-house to ensure it withstands different global climates.

In terms of technique, we focus on preserving traditional skills such as intricate hand-carving, bone inlay work, and iron jali craftsmanship—techniques passed down through generations of artisans in Jodhpur. Every piece reflects hours of manual effort, patience, and artistic intuition.

Q: The handicraft market is highly competitive today. What truly sets KB ART apart?

What differentiates KB ART is our commitment to the human touch. We are not just a factory; we function as a collective of artisans. We work directly with master craftsmen, eliminating middlemen and ensuring fair wages and respect for their skills.

Another key factor is our focus on Modern-Heritage design. While our roots are traditional, our designs are adapted to suit modern minimalist and industrial interiors. This fusion allows our products to appeal to both heritage lovers and contemporary design enthusiasts.

Additionally, we refuse to compromise on quality. We do not use plywood or MDF. Our belief in “slow furniture” means every product is built to last generations, not trends.

Q: Sustainability is a growing concern globally. How does KB ART address this?

Sustainability is not a trend for us—it is a responsibility. We use eco-friendly finishes, natural waxes, and reclaimed wood wherever possible. Our processes are designed to minimize waste, and leftover wood is repurposed into smaller décor items.

We are conscious of the fragile ecosystem of the Thar region, so we focus on low-impact manufacturing while ensuring ethical sourcing. Our customers appreciate knowing that every purchase supports both the environment and local livelihoods.

Q: Who are your primary customers, and how do you support them?

Our clientele is truly global. We work with:

  • International retailers and boutique owners in countries like the USA, UK, Germany, and Australia

  • Interior designers and architects working on luxury homes, hotels, cafés, and commercial projects

  • Eco-conscious homeowners who prefer meaningful, durable furniture over mass-produced alternatives

Beyond selling products, we solve industry pain points. We ensure strict quality control, provide full transparency in sourcing, and offer customization at scale. For international buyers, we also manage logistics, fumigation certification, and secure packaging, making the export process seamless and stress-free.

Q: Have you introduced any innovative collections recently?

Yes, we recently launched our ‘Modern-Heritage’ Collection, which has received an overwhelming response. This collection reimagines traditional Jodhpur carving for urban homes, featuring clean lines, pastel tones, and space-saving designs.

It has been particularly popular among younger homeowners who want cultural depth without the heavy, ornate look traditionally associated with wooden furniture.

Q: Could you share details about your latest project that you’re most excited about?

We are extremely proud of our latest creation—the 3D Hand-Carved Seven Running Horses Wall Hanging. In Indian culture, seven horses symbolize energy, success, speed, and prosperity, especially from a Vastu perspective.

What makes this piece special is its three-dimensional realism. Unlike flat paintings, each horse is carved in relief, giving a sense of motion and power. Every detail—from the mane to the muscles—is hand-chiseled by master craftsmen.

The piece is Vastu-compliant, made from sustainably sourced seasoned wood, and finished with a rich natural polish, making it a true heirloom-quality artwork.

Q: What achievements is KB ART most proud of so far?

Our biggest achievement is earning the trust of global buyers who return to us year after year. Being recognized as a reliable exporter of authentic Indian handicrafts while maintaining ethical practices is something we value deeply.

Equally important is the impact we’ve made locally—supporting artisan families, reviving fading techniques, and ensuring these skills continue to thrive in modern times.

Q: What is your long-term vision for KB ART?

Our vision is to establish KB ART as a globally recognized symbol of authentic Indian craftsmanship. We aim to expand our export footprint, collaborate with international designers, and continue innovating within the modern-heritage space.

Most importantly, we want to ensure that the next generation of artisans sees a future in this craft—where tradition, dignity, and global opportunity coexist.

KB ART is more than a brand; it is a testament to India’s living heritage—where every carved detail tells a story, and every product carries the soul of Jodhpur’s timeless artistry.

For more information, visit www.kbart.in or contact info.kbart@gmail.com.

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