Renowned singer and musician Arati Rao, a familiar name in Bengaluru’s music scene and the visionary behind the former live music venue bFLAT, is embarking on an exciting new journey. She is officially launching her jewellery design label, Taar.
Arati describes this new venture as ‘a fresh artistic endeavor.’ She reveals that the closure of bFLAT, which unfortunately coincided with the lockdown, provided her with the perfect opportunity to delve into jewellery making. ‘I’ve always loved designing jewellery for my loved ones,’ she shares. ‘But for years, my passion for music consumed my time, preventing me from fully exploring this handcrafted art form.’
Her collection, beautifully showcased in an image of an intricate wire-wrapped piece, promises designs that truly capture the eye.
After a successful debut in Mumbai, Arati is bringing Taar to Bengaluru this weekend. Her collection boasts an array of stunning large pendants, elegant necklaces, statement earrings, intricate rings, and stylish bracelets. This highly anticipated launch, presented in collaboration with Baro Market and curated by Srila Chatterjee, will also highlight creations from other talented artists and designers spanning fashion, lifestyle, and unique jewellery.
Another striking image captures a unique jewellery design from Taar, further demonstrating the artistry in wire-wrapped creations, featuring elements like Mother and Child motifs.
The label’s name, ‘Taar,’ meaning ‘wire’ in Hindi, perfectly encapsulates the essence of her designs. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, showcasing intricate wirework using recycled copper, brass, silver, and gold. These metallic strands are thoughtfully combined with natural gemstones, quartz, and even delicate pebbles. Arati explains the challenging process: ‘It involves weaving and wrapping fine wires until they form a solid structure. These delicate wires are then skillfully shaped to securely hold the gemstones. Working with thin wires of varying gauges requires immense precision and patience.’
A close-up view of a Taar jewellery piece, possibly featuring vibrant red onyx and apatite, reveals the meticulous detail and rich materials used, embodying both unisex appeal and versatility.
Arati emphasizes that her venture into jewellery making was initially driven purely by artistic exploration, not commercial ambition. ‘It was simply about learning a new art form,’ she states. After creating pieces for friends and family for several years, their overwhelming encouragement prompted her to share her work with a wider audience. She also notes that her design inspiration originates from the gemstones and minerals themselves. ‘I feel they communicate with me, guiding how I shape them into truly distinctive pieces,’ she shares, highlighting that many of her designs are intentionally unisex, offering exceptional versatility.
Taar’s stunning creations are priced from ₹1,500 to ₹50,000. Experience the collection firsthand from October 16-18 at the Bangalore International Centre, Domlur.