Our annual initiative to support emerging international design talent.

We’re so thrilled to launch the Shakti Design Residency in India, a new annual initiative to support emerging international design talent.

In collaboration with curated vintage digital marketplace, Basic.Space, the aim of the residency is for participants to create a capsule of sustainable and innovative pieces that reflects their time in India, offering a unique opportunity to explore, learn, and create in a culturally rich and inspiring environment.

The name ‘Shakti’ comes from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘power’, ‘energy’, or ‘strength’. It is a word that has strong associations with empowerment, creativity, and the active and dynamic forces of the universe.

“The Shakti Design Residency is an ambitious initiative I have envisioned for quite some time. The timing feels particularly important now as we witness a global shift towards valuing craftsmanship and innovation in design. India is increasingly recognised for its technology expertise and a willingness to embrace the role of design in creation of a better future.” – Shalini Misra

Aimed at graduates and post-graduates in design, the four-week residency in New Delhi and Jaipur enables four successful applicants to be immersed in Indian craftsmanship and culture, visiting workshops, and collaborating with local artisans, alongside an international panel of world-leading design and creative mentors.

The prestigious jury includes Benjamin Paulin (Designer, Paris), Nina Yashar (Gallery Owner, Milan), Marcin Rusak (Designer, Warsaw – London), Alexis Georgacopoulos (Director, Ecal, Lausanne), Yves Behar (Designer and Entrepreneur, San Francisco), Sonali Rastogi (architect Morphogenesis), Shalini Misra (designer and entrepreneur, London) and Jesse Lee (founder Basic.Space, LA).

The first residency begins from 1 to 25 October 2024, and is organised in partnership with Jesse Lee, founder of innovative design retail platform Basic.Space. Shalini Misra’s extraordinary Farmhouse and grounds in New Delhi will serve as the hub for this exciting program.

“Partnering with Basic.Space was a natural choice, and all our jury members truly appreciate the importance of fostering a new vision of design. Our aim is to bring all these elements together to create a transformative and enriching experience for the participants.” – Shalini Misra 

Each participant is paired with a local artisan of their choice from a curated shortlist to foster collaboration and cultural exchange. The most outstanding pieces are put into production and offered or sale on Curio.Space and Basic.Space.

“India currently has the fastest growing economy in the world, which will then lead to more, diverse opportunities for next gen creatives. I am delighted to participate in the inaugural design residency where we can help provide a platform to showcase amazing designers.”  – Jesse Lee, founder of Basic.Space