Resounding Silence: Postcards for Pipli is India’s Best Design Project 2023

Anthropogenic activities like excessive commercial fishing, energy exploration, shipping, natural gas, oil exploration and ballistic mining create high-decibel noises that travel very far and interfere with the natural marine radar of the ocean ecosystem. The ‘Postcards for Pipli’ collection aims to create awareness about the life forms dwelling under the sea, and question their safety in the face of reckless human interference that has resulted in depletion of their homes.

The Silent Crisis

Sound travels five times faster in water than in air, magnifying its impact and disrupting the natural soundscape of the marine ecosystem. This noise pollution interferes with the natural radar that marine organisms rely on, obscuring environmental cues and diminishing their ability to avoid natural disasters like ocean quakes. The incessant noise affects marine creatures’ ability to decipher sounds, thereby impacting their communication efficiency. Prolonged exposure can even result in hearing loss, affecting their ability to communicate with mates, offspring, and feeding partners. This disruption extends to their ability to avoid predators and locate food, ultimately impairing their survival and severely impacting the ocean ecosystem and food chain.

Raising Awareness Through Textiles

To raise awareness about this pressing issue, a unique project used storytelling through textiles, specifically employing the traditional technique of Pipli applique. This method allowed for the use of a vibrant colour palette, motifs, and design elements to convey a powerful message. The intricate detailing required careful placement to communicate the narrative effectively. Although the finishing process was labour-intensive, the meaningful outcome made it worthwhile.

Inspiring Change

The collection aims to highlight the plight of the millions of lives dwelling beneath the sea, questioning their safety amidst relentless human interference. Reckless human activity has led to the depletion of marine habitats, urging individuals to reconsider life choices that, while seemingly negligible, have elevated pollution to critical levels. By shining a light on this issue, the project seeks to inspire a shift in behaviour towards more sustainable practices that protect marine life and their habitats.

Through innovative storytelling and traditional techniques, the project serves as a call to action, encouraging society to reflect on its actions and make conscious efforts to protect the ocean and its inhabitants.

Credit: Larrah Studio