Shola

What is Shola?

Shola craft in India is a traditional art form that uses the soft, spongy core of the shola plant to create lightweight, sculptural floral and decorative forms. At VISHH, we collaborate with shola artisans to develop handcrafted installations, ceremonial elements and spatial features for hospitality, cultural and interior projects.

Our role is to translate this delicate craft into contemporary design and structured production systems - ensuring handcrafted shola elements can move from sampling into reliable, small-batch and project-scale manufacturing.

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Regional Origins & Craft Heritage

Shola craft is traditionally associated with eastern India, where artisans developed techniques to shape plant material into intricate flowers, ornaments and ceremonial objects. Motifs often draw from natural forms and cultural symbolism, giving the craft a strong narrative and visual identity.

These traditions continue to influence how shola is interpreted in modern spatial and decorative contexts.

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Materials & Technical Process

The process begins by harvesting and drying shola stems, which are then cut into thin sheets. Artisans shape and assemble the material by hand, forming petals, leaves and sculptural components using simple tools and natural adhesives.

The result is a lightweight, matte-finished surface that reflects both material sensitivity and detailed craftsmanship.

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Applications in Contemporary Design & Hospitality

At VISHH, we can apply shola craft across:

• Floral installations and wall/ceiling features

• Ceremonial décor and event elements

• Sculptural wall panels

• Spatial and cultural installations

 

In hospitality environments, shola introduces visual softness, organic form and narrative storytelling into guest-facing spaces.

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From Sampling to Small-Batch Production

VISHH manages:

• Design mapping and material testing

• Prototype development and assembly trials

• Structural reinforcement planning

• Batch coordination and quality benchmarks

 

This ensures delicate shola elements remain stable and visually consistent across multi-unit and installation-scale projects.

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Working with Designers, Architects & Brands

We collaborate on custom forms, scale testing and installation feasibility - ensuring shola-based concepts translate reliably into architectural and spatial environments

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Looking to develop handcrafted shola installations or cultural spatial features in India?
Connect with VISHH to explore artisan sourcing and project-based production.