Rock Dhokra with Ila & Subheshwar
Discover a 5,000 year old indigenous metal art with master artists Subheshwar and Ila in serene Panchgani, amidst an artist community nestled in nature. Alongside Adivasi craftspeople, you will explore groundbreaking new Dhokra techniques for fusing brass with rock to create your sculpture. When you’re not in the studio, pay a visit to nearby historic bakeries and embark on a peaceful forest hike.
- Snacks, Coffee, & Tea
Pricing
- One Guest
- USD $490
- Additional guest(s) (max 4)
- USD $280
Accommodation
- One Guest
- USD $240
- Additional guest(s)
- USD $65
Meet the Artist
Subheshwar is a master Dhokra craftsman with over 40 years of expertise in the 5,000-year-old Indian art of lost-wax casting, while Ila is a metal artist and Dhokra casting expert. Together, their collective experience blends local generational knowledge, extensive research, and a global perspective, infusing this ancient indigenous craft with a contemporary touch.
Working alongside a team of 20+ artists and artisans in a serene forested arts village, Subheshwar and Ila create a diverse range of decorative, sculptural, and functional pieces using materials like iron, brass, stone, wood, bamboo, and fabric. Their work is deeply rooted in exploring Indic traditions and a connection to nature—two key inspirations for this artistic community. After years of research and experimentation, the artisans in this village have also pioneered a patented process for fusing rock with brass, reflecting their commitment to constant innovation and the synergy between traditional skills and modern design.
Ila and Subheshwar are excited to share their unique expertise and creative energy with you in this rare, community-based experience, exploring the connections between indigenous art and nature.
Working alongside a team of 20+ artists and artisans in a serene forested arts village, Subheshwar and Ila create a diverse range of decorative, sculptural, and functional pieces using materials like iron, brass, stone, wood, bamboo, and fabric. Their work is deeply rooted in exploring Indic traditions and a connection to nature—two key inspirations for this artistic community. After years of research and experimentation, the artisans in this village have also pioneered a patented process for fusing rock with brass, reflecting their commitment to constant innovation and the synergy between traditional skills and modern design.
Ila and Subheshwar are excited to share their unique expertise and creative energy with you in this rare, community-based experience, exploring the connections between indigenous art and nature.
VAWAA Includes:
- Learning the unique process of creating a metal sculpture by fusing stone and brass.
- Designing a wax model using stone using an aesthetic sensibility that emphasizes the fast eroding connection between Man and Nature.
- Preparing a clay mould.
- Firing/casting using lost wax technique. (Casting happens in batches once in a month. If it's not possible during your stay, the piece can be shipped to you for an additional fee)
- Finishing and polishing your piece.
- Your lost-wax cast object.
Stay at Ila & Subheshwar's
Stay in a private room within the main bungalow of the arts village. The room offers a separate entrance, a double bed, an en-suite bathroom, and a kitchenette. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are included.
Explore Panchgani
Panchgani is a serene hill station nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range of Maharashtra, India. Known for its scenic beauty, it offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush valleys, and pristine lakes. In your free time, you can trek through nearby forests, visit organic farms at Red Stone Eco Education Centre, or explore the textile craft center at Riverview Retreat. The area is also home to a local cheese factory, 100+ year-old bakeries, the famous Mapro Farms, and even Freddie Mercury’s former school. With a pleasant climate year-round, it's perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Additional Details
The best time to visit Panchgani is from October to February when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to September) offers lush green landscapes but with heavy rains.
This VAWAA is available for a longer duration. Please add a note in your booking request.
Ila and Subheshwar speak English and Hindi.
This VAWAA is available for a longer duration. Please add a note in your booking request.
Ila and Subheshwar speak English and Hindi.
Guest Reviews
Gitanjali D., Canada
A very magical life experience! Thank you to the amazing artists and team at Devrai - I learnt so much and had such an incredibly special time. Hugely recommend to anyone looking for an Indian getaway, to slow down and connect with an old art.
Jai A., India
I am drawn to the beauty of metal art.
Learning to make metal art, sculpting the wax, working with my hands, pouring/casting molten brass at 900 deg c. Brought me immense joy.
Suresh’s organisation also helps train apprentices from Indian villages, giving them training to hone their skills. Allowing them to explore their creativity and giving them a trade. I found the experience of trainin Read moreSteve M., United States
My week spent at the Devrai Art Village was indeed a magical experience. Suresh is not only a master craftsman but also a charming and welcoming mentor. Although I am a career artist myself, I had never done anything significant in casting nor metalwork. Suresh and his team of artisans at the village were all extremely helpful in allowing me to learn about the artform, create some impressive piece Read more
