Two Handwoven Colorful Recycled Plastic Baskets from India, "Vivid Cradles"

"I'm Ritu Bajoria and this is my story. I was born in 1971 in the populous state of West Bengal. As a child, I was fascinated by the myriad colors found in nature, and often sat for hours in gardens, mesmerized by the blue sky, vibrant flowers and trees.

"When I was five, I bought paper and began drawing and painting, which became my passion and vocation. Since then, nature has been my muse.

"My family was supportive while I worked with my brush and canvas. I taught myself different techniques with limited resources. Then for two years, I took classes and tried my best to master the arts I could not learn on my own. I feel that a lifetime would not be enough time to thoroughly master the art of painting but I am trying to improve with sincerity and dedication.

"As a homemaker, I've found it tough to convert my hobby into my profession and to do justice to the unending hours that both my commitments entail. But with my husband and children as my support system, I've been able to turn my dream into reality.

"I want to spread the wings of my imagination to create surreal paintings with a message of harmony and tranquility.

"Art brings me a sense of purpose and gives direction to my life. I usually work with acrylics and watercolors on canvas or paper. For my woven baskets, I use recycled materials. My creativity and willingness to experiment give my art a unique style. I find a sense of contentedness in the different colors, which fuels my creativity.

"I organize workshops for children in my community and hope some of them will find their own passion in art. I feel strongly about women's problems and want to contribute in my own small way by employing women to help provide them a way to earn a living."