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About

Our Core Values

The Hutheesing Visual Art Centre was envisioned to be a sister institue to Shantiniketan in Kolkata. Along the lines of Rabindranath Tagore's philosophy, the space was envisioned to be a centre for diverse forms of art. At the core, the centre was founded to extend unconditional support to artists and their art, from visual medius to vibrant perfomance art forms. The hutheesing Visual Art Centre has dedicated itself to preerving and enriching Indian art froms, thereby ensuring the continuity of the nation's rich culture and heritage as well. 

The Hutheesing
Family Legacy

The Hutheesing family, a prominent Jain lineage from Ahmedabad, has been integral to India's cultural and philanthropic heritage over the centuries. Their legacy originates from Shantidas Jhaveri, a revered jeweler who served the Mughal emperors and gained recognition for his integrity and craftsmanship. Continuing this tradition, Sheth Hutheesing initiated the construction of the Hutheesing Jain Temple in 1848, which was subsequently completed by his wife, Harkunwar, following his passing. This temple is a remarkable example of architectural beauty and served as a beacon of hope during a devastating famine by providing employment to numerous artisans. The family's charitable efforts extended beyond religious architecture; they played a crucial role in establishing educational institutions and hospitals in Ahmedabad, showcasing their commitment to community welfare.

 

The Hutheesing family name has been synonymous with the Indian artistic landscape, specifically through their collaborations with esteemed design firms. In the late 19th century, they partnered with Lockwood de Forest and Louis Tiffany, who were prominent figures in American interior design, to create exquisite wooden furniture and decorative elements. This collaboration culminated in the establishment of the Ahmedabad Wood Carving Company in 1881, which specialised in exporting intricately carved wooden pieces, including doors and cabinets, to the United States.

Maganbhai Hutheesing, a key member of the family, played a pivotal role in this partnership, effectively showcasing Indian craftsmanship on an international stage. Their work encompassed significant projects such as enhancing the interiors of the White House, where they seamlessly integrated Indian design elements into various spaces. The family's continued commitment to preserving traditional arts is reflected today through Umang Hutheesing and his design company, Hutheesing Design Company (HDC), which focuses on reviving antique textiles and royal attire. HDC has hosted exhibitions globally, further solidifying the family's legacy in the arts while promoting India's rich cultural heritage.

 

Today, the Hutheesing family's influence persists through various philanthropic initiatives and their enduring architectural contributions, while their support for the arts has aided in the preservation of traditional Indian art forms. Their legacy embodies values of compassion, integrity, and community service along with upholding India’s rich heritage. 

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