A craftwork is an applied form of art, a social and cultural product reflecting the inclusive nature of folk imagination. A craftwork, which usually doesn't bear the signature of its maker, retains a personal touch. When we look at a thirty year old nakshikantha, we wonder at its motifs and designs that point to the artistic ingenuity and the presence of the maker in it. A craftwork is shaped by the interaction of individual creativity and community aesthetics, utility functions and human values. It is distinguished by its maker's desire to locate himself or herself in the wider and ever-changing cultural aspirations of the community and subsequently of the market. But even when the market is an important factor, community aesthetics remains the factor determining the form and content of the craftwork. A handmade craft work is the representation of the life and culture of a community. It always retains the personal touch of its maker. It is often based on the market demand and always retains its aesthetic value. On the other hand, a machine production always focuses on the market demand. It is produced to satisfy the consumers. It is based on the consumers' demand and thus any emotion, either personal or aesthetic is not important for producing machine product. Market plays a significant role in promoting crafts. If the market promotes a craft, it will be popular among the consumers and consequently, its production will continue. Again market forces should introduce the product to the international community. We can successfully use the market forces to brand our craftworks both within and outside the country by providing grants, loans, assistance and other support to the producers and helping them find a comfortable customer base.
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