Three years back, when the German designer and curator Volker Albus, visited India for the first time, its abundant craftsmanship and rich tradition inspired him and the idea of the exhibition 'New Olds' took its genesis. The exhibition which opened on January 24 at the National Institute of Design  (NID) gallery, displays 58 products from 45 international designers which marry traditional methods in products meant for contemporary consumers.

Albus, a curator with IfA, Stuttgart, Germany, since 12 years, said conducting 'New olds' at a space like NID, which produces future designers, is important. "Many designers from South Asian countries like India look towards the west for inspiration. However, there exists a much deeper tradition here which is often forgotten. Innovative inspirations can be connected to traditions," he said. The products on display are a testimony to this thought.

Also the connection has extended to addition of Indian designers, Errol Pires, Rajiv Jassal and Bikram Mittra, from NID, in the exhibition.

On display, thus, are furniture made by traditional knotting methods using recycled plastic and natural wood among others. There are oriental carpets made with modern patterns and parcel packs printed with traditional motifs which also substitute as carpets. Interestingly the plastic chairs available in India have inspired many European designers to explore the form in materials available locally. These chairs are on display and in production.

"This exhibition is also an important marker in the celebrations of 60 years of Indo- German diplomatic friendship. It will now travel to Pune and Hyderabad," said Dr Marla Stukenberg, director of Max Mueller Bhavan, who is organizing the exhibition for IfA at NID. One can view the exhibition until February 24.