Ramdayal Sharma – Tarkashi

Ram Dayal Sharma is a master artisan in the traditional craft of Tarkashi, a delicate art form involving intricate metal inlay work on wood. Beginning his journey in 1975, Ramdayal Ji was mentored by his elder brother, Shilp Guru Ram Saroop Sharma, from whom he inherited the craft’s expertise and dedication.

With decades of experience, Ram Dayal Ji has become a well-respected figure in the field. His work has been showcased through live demonstrations at the City Palace in Jaipur since 1996, where he has captivated audiences with his skillful craftsmanship. In addition to his artistic practice, he shares his knowledge by teaching at the Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD), conducting month-long workshops each year.

His exceptional contributions to Tarkashi have earned him several prestigious awards, including the Certification of Merit by the Ministry of Textiles in 2008, the National Award in 2009, and the Kala Nidhi Award by Surajkund Mela Authority in 2010. Ram Dayal Ji's dedication to preserving and promoting this rare craft has solidified his legacy as a true artisan and educator.

Exhibitions

~ 1953 – Jaisalmer  fair

~ 1984 - vishakha patnam  andar Pradesh

~ 1985 - kerla ( trichur)

~ 1986 - prgati medan delhi

~ 1988 - puhkar fair

~ 1990 - shilong ( meghalya)

~ 1991 -ravindarsadan ( kolkata )

~ 1992 – Bhuneshwar ( Udisha )

~ 1998 -  Suraj Kund Fair ( Faridabad )

~ 2010 -  Suraj Kund Fair ( Faridabad )

Inter-National   Exhibitions      

~ Argentina, South – America (3-13 Dec, 2011)

~ Milan , Italy (1-10 Nov 2012)

About his craft

Tarkashi is a traditional Indian craft that involves the delicate art of inlaying fine wires of brass, copper, or silver into wood to create intricate designs. Originating from Rajasthan, this craft requires immense precision and patience, as the artisan meticulously carves grooves into the wood and embeds metal wires to form patterns, often inspired by nature or geometric motifs. Tarkashi is commonly used to decorate furniture, boxes, and other wooden objects, giving them a unique and elegant aesthetic.

Ram Dayal Sharma Ji, a distinguished master of Tarkashi, has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting this ancient craft. Starting his journey in 1975, under the guidance of his elder brother, Shilp Guru Ram Saroop Sharma, he honed his skills and became a torchbearer of this traditional art. Over the years, his craftsmanship has been recognized not only for its technical excellence but also for its artistic innovation, blending age-old techniques with contemporary sensibilities.

Awards and Accolades:

Ram Dayal Sharma Ji’s remarkable journey in the art of Tarkashi has been honored with several prestigious awards and accolades, recognizing his dedication and mastery in this intricate craft.

In 2008, he received a Certificate of Merit from the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, which acknowledged his exceptional skills and contribution to traditional Indian craftsmanship.

His efforts were further recognized in 2009 when he was bestowed with the National Award, one of the highest honors for artisans in India, for his outstanding work in Tarkashi.

In 2010, Ram Dayal Sharma Ji was awarded the Kala Nidhi Award by the Surajkund Mela Authority, celebrating his artistic excellence and significant contributions to promoting Indian crafts on a national platform.

Through these accolades, Ram Dayal Sharma Ji has cemented his legacy as a master craftsman, inspiring future generations to preserve and innovate within the art of Tarkashi.