India Art and Craft Market Overview, 2029

The art and craft market in India has a rich history, deeply rooted in the country’s cultural and social fabric. Traditionally, Indian crafts have been a reflection of the diverse heritage, with each region showcasing unique skills and styles influenced by various dynasties and cultures. The origins of these crafts can be traced back thousands of years, with evidence of intricate metalwork and textiles found in archaeological sites like Mohenjo-Daro. In contemporary India, the handicraft sector employs over seven million artisans, predominantly in rural areas, and encompasses a wide range of products including textiles, pottery, metalwork, and woodcraft. The rise of e-commerce and digital platforms has further revolutionized the market, allowing artisans to reach international customers directly, thus enhancing their economic viability. Innovations within the sector have also been notable. Collaborations between traditional artisans and modern designers have led to the fusion of contemporary aesthetics with traditional crafts, creating unique products that appeal to modern consumers. Furthermore, initiatives like the National Handicraft Development Programme aim to provide artisans with training, resources, and market access, ensuring the sustainability of these crafts in a rapidly changing economic landscape. Despite these advancements, challenges persist. The number of artisans has declined due to industrialization and urban migration, with many facing financial struggles exacerbated by rising material costs. However, government initiatives and a growing consumer preference for sustainable and ethically produced goods present opportunities for revitalization. The “Vocal for Local” movement encourages consumers to support indigenous crafts, fostering a renewed interest in traditional art forms. The future of the Indian art and craft market appears promising, driven by innovation, a commitment to sustainability, and a global demand for unique, handcrafted products.

According to the research report "India Art & Craft Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the India market is anticipated to grow at more than 8.78% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. The growth of the art and craft market in India has been significant, driven by a combination of cultural heritage, economic potential, and evolving consumer preferences. Key players in this market include various artisan clusters across the country, with over 744 recognized handicraft clusters employing nearly 212,000 artisans. Major hubs such as Surat, Bareilly, Varanasi, and Agra are known for their unique crafts, encompassing a wide range of products from textiles to metal wares. The dominance of female artisans, who constitute over 56% of the workforce, highlights the sector's role in promoting gender equality and economic empowerment in rural areas. The rise of e-commerce has been pivotal in connecting artisans with consumers worldwide, allowing them to showcase their products beyond local markets. This digital transformation has been complemented by a growing interest in handmade and sustainable products, driven by a consumer shift towards unique, ethically produced goods. The travel and tourism industry also plays a crucial role, as tourists increasingly seek authentic souvenirs, further boosting local artisans' sales. Government initiatives such as the "Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" and the "Vocal for Local" campaign have encouraged the revival and promotion of indigenous crafts, fostering a sense of pride in local products and supporting artisans in navigating modern markets. Additionally, the Indian art market has seen a remarkable growth of 250% over the past decade, with events like the India Art Fair providing platforms for artists and collectors to engage, thus enhancing market visibility and investment in the arts.

The art and craft market in India encompasses a diverse range of segments, the painting and drawing segment has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with the rise of contemporary Indian artists gaining global recognition. Events like the India Art Fair, which has grown by over 250% in the past decade, provide a platform for showcasing modern and contemporary art from India and South Asia. Record prices were achieved for artists like Amrita Sher-Gil, SH Raza, Raja Ravi Varma, and VS Gaitonde, with Sher-Gil's "The Story Teller" fetching a record-breaking `61.8 crore at Saffronart's 'Evening Sale: Modern Art' in New Delhi. Paper crafts, including origami, quilling, and card making, have gained popularity in recent years, with a growing number of workshops and events catering to enthusiasts. Several organizations, such as the Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD) in Jaipur, Rajasthan, focus on preserving and promoting traditional paper crafts while incorporating contemporary design elements. The kids crafts segment has seen a surge in demand, with parents increasingly recognizing the importance of creative expression and skill development in children. Many schools and educational institutions have incorporated art and craft activities into their curriculum, while private workshops and camps cater to the growing interest in this segment. The demand for high-quality arts and crafts tools has grown alongside the overall market expansion. Specialized stores and online platforms offer a wide range of tools, from paintbrushes and canvases to quilling tools and origami paper. India's rich textile heritage has fueled the growth of the sewing and fabric crafts segment. Traditional embroidery techniques like zardozi, chikankari, and phulkari have been revived and incorporated into contemporary fashion and home decor. Events like the Lakme Fashion Week showcase the fusion of traditional crafts with modern designs, while initiatives like the "Vocal for Local" campaign encourage consumers to support indigenous textiles and crafts.

Art and crafts for personal use encompass a wide range of activities, from DIY projects to home decor and personal expression. This segment has seen a surge in popularity as individuals increasingly seek to personalize their living spaces and express their creativity. The rise of social media platforms has facilitated the sharing of DIY projects, inspiring many to engage in crafts like painting, sewing, and paper crafts. Events such as local craft fairs and workshops encourage community participation, allowing individuals to learn new skills and create handmade items for personal enjoyment. The growth of online marketplaces, such as Craftsvilla and AuthIndia, has made it easier for consumers to access materials and finished products, further fueling this trend. This segment's growth is also linked to a growing awareness of sustainability, with consumers opting for handmade items over mass-produced goods. The commercial application of art and crafts is a significant driver of the market, with artisans and businesses producing items for sale. This segment includes a wide array of products, such as textiles, jewelry, and home decor, which are often sold at local markets, online platforms, and international exhibitions. The commercial craft sector has expanded due to increased demand for unique, handcrafted products, particularly in the gifting and home decor industries. Events like the India Art Fair and various trade expos provide artisans and businesses with platforms to showcase their work, connect with buyers, and explore export opportunities. The commercial segment is supported by government initiatives aimed at promoting handicrafts, such as the "Vocal for Local" campaign, which encourages consumers to buy locally made products.

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029



Aspects covered in this report
• Art & craft products market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Painting and Drawing
• Paper Crafts
• Kids Crafts
• Arts and Crafts Tools
• Others

By Application
• Personal Use
• Commercial Use

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Art & craft products industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.