Yahvi Duggal

About

Yahvi Duggal’s journey as a textile designer and skill development leader has been profoundly shaped by her love for colors, weaving, and zero waste techniques. She loves to travel and experiment with culinary arts, drawing inspiration from these passions into her work at the Royal College of Art (RCA). Yahvi’s journey is driven by the belief that creativity and environmentally conscious design can harmoniously coexist, leading to a more responsible and vibrant future for the textile industry.

Since 2018, Yahvi has been training women artisans in India to adopt sustainable practices through natural dye programs. She has also managed clients like Anthropologie and Soho Home at a buying agency, developing experimental weaves and honing her industry skills.

With these experiences, Yahvi came to RCA, fully aware of the industry’s realities and the Practicalities of sustainability. Her goal has always been to reduce the environmental impact of her work while channeling her love for colors into creations that utilize waste in innovative ways.

One of her proudest projects, Souk Locale, is a celebration of color, culture, and transforming waste into wonders through the art of weaving. Inspired by her travels to Marrakech, this project captures the city’s dynamic spirit in a vibrant color palette.

Deeply influenced by Indian traditions, Yahvi repurposes organic waste materials—such as eggshells, avocado pits, and banana peels—along with waste generated during her weaving and textile work, into bio-materials for her creations. This practice challenges viewers to rethink their perceptions of waste and envisions a future where this unique design language forms a supportive community.

Souk Locale aims to inspire a new wave of artistic alchemists dedicated to conscious creativity. Yahvi envisions this approach being adopted by multiple craft clusters and refugee communities worldwide. By utilizing locally available waste materials and bio-resources, these communities can create sustainable and beautiful textiles, fostering both environmental responsibility and economic empowerment.