Sunday 28-30 September, 10-4 p.m.: Short Course: Ecoprint, Block Printing & Rust Printing with Dr Vishal C. Bhand

Teaching style didn’t work for me - his model was guru/disciple which is totally inappropriate when working with experienced adults. Lacked a clear structure. Lots of dead time doing nothing except waiting for processes to work. Studio was too small for 11 participants and very cold. There were not enough chairs for everyone to sit. The loo flushed erratically. No tea or coffee. The worst craft course I have ever attended

Is there a waiting list for this, just in case someone can’t make it.
Many thanks
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I had the privilege of learning under Vishal Sir during my time at Silpa Sadana, Visva Bharati University.
His classes opened my mind to see design from a broader, more creative perspective. He always encouraged us to think differently, challenge conventional ideas, and dream big. His motivation and guidance had a profound impact on me, not just as a student but also in shaping my professional journey. Today, as I work as a Technical Designer in London, I can confidently say that Vishal Sir’s inspiration played a key role in getting me here. I wholeheartedly recommend his course in creative textile design to anyone passionate about exploring their creativity and pushing boundaries.

Very rarely do we find a practicing designer and a teacher in one person, but Dr. Vishal Bhand is a rare exception. A visionary in natural dyes and sustainable textile design, he embodies both roles with remarkable depth and sincerity. My journey in the world of textiles has been profoundly shaped by his mentorship, which combined hands-on experimentation, meaningful dialogue, and deep insights into sustainable practices.

Dr. Bhand’s passion for his craft is contagious. His teaching goes far beyond technique he encourages critical thinking, nurtures creativity, and challenges students to consider the social and ecological impact of their work. He allows students the freedom to explore and experiment, creating a studio environment where learning is both exciting and empowering. Under his expert guidance, I developed a nuanced understanding of the relationship between nature, color, and design. His unique teaching style marked by technical mastery and creative openness helped me discover my own artistic voice in textile design.

Through him, I developed a deep appreciation for the beauty and potential of natural dyes. His emphasis on sustainability, craftsmanship, and innovation instilled in me a strong sense of purpose. I now feel confident as I begin my career working with natural dye pastes in screen printing combining tradition with contemporary aesthetics.

People in London who are passionate about sustainable textiles should not miss the opportunity to attend his workshops. Dr. Bhand’s rare blend of design expertise and teaching skill offers participants a truly enriching experience that bridges craft, innovation, and ecological awareness.

As I take the next steps in my journey, I remain deeply grateful for his mentorship. His influence continues to guide and inspire my path in ethical and creative textile practice.

In one word EXCELLENT!! I have know both Vishal and Bijoya for a few years now. Our first introduction was with them in santiniketan where I was visiting and googled to find out about ecoprints. Beej and company name popped up in the search and we were welcomed to their beautiful home and studio without any prior appointment. Our journey started there… we spent hours in their home where the couple showed us all their work alongwith explaining how they worked with these colors. It was interesting to see Vishal’s hand dyed with colors which showed his own interest and that he always has worked hands on with his students ( we did not know then that he was a professor at viswabharati and dealt with textiles). We bought SEVERAL sarees, dresses and scarves from them for personal use as well as to give as gifts to our family and friends in USA. In one word the absolutely loved them!! I have personally worn them so many times and each time the saree stuns everyone. The colors are crisp and the quality of their silks just amazing. The flowy are another hugely popular for me - they fit and feel well. The angora shawls with ecoprints are amazing.

I would recommend anyone to Vishal and bijoya in a heartbeat - exemplary work with no compromise in quality. I am always on the lookout for something new and innovative and Vishal and his students have something new all the time :)
Best wishes Vishal and Bijoya - your “Beej” is growing and definitely spreading waves around!!! Love you guys!!