KOCHI:Traditional clothes with hand-painted patterns are not new, but artist Neethu Vishakh has created a different market by bringing a variety of painting styles on coloured fabrics.A native of Thiruvananthapuram, Neethu had a passion for art since childhood.“I tried painting on shirts for my friends and relatives, and they really liked it. That encouraged me to start a Facebook page,” Neethu said, about her Navami page.
Her designs are available at her boutique also named Navami, where she also has two tailoring staff. “I am keen on working on gowns, crop tops and modern outfits, rather than on traditional clothes,” she said.
Her first attempt on a western outfit was when she painted a peacock on a gown.
“The moment I thought about working on a gown, I thought of the peacock motif. I am happy that it was well received, “ she said. Actress Mridhula Vijay, who is one of the brand ambassadors of Navami, has modelled the gown. Neethu uploads all her signature works on the Navami Facebook page, which receives a good response.
“Whenever Mridhula or my other brand partner, actor Sajan Surya, or any other celebrity upload their photos and gives costume courtesy to Navami, it brings in a pool of customers,” Neethu said.
Most of the enquiries come from Malayalees settled outside the state and country. “Due to various constraints, I do not take bulk orders. I do customised designing, according to customers’ requests,” she said.
Neethu said she is able to make an identity through her designs as people recognise the Navami brand. She noted that her boutique is also into portfolio shoots and a celebrity partner of various shows.
The designer is now gearing up for her festival release.Her Onam special consists of jasmine, roses and sunflowers painted on sarees.