Kalidas Mangela

Kalidas Mangela transforms the humble sewing machine into an unconventional artistic tool. Alongside his regular sewing practice, he experiments with the machine’s stitches, lines and textures, creating works that are intricate and delightfully unexpected.
His artistic journey began with his encounter with Makodi, a traditional sewing technique commonly used on men’s shalwars. Intrigued by the possibilities of the medium, Kalidas began adapting the technique in his own distinctive way, treating the sewing machine almost like a paintbrush.

His works draw inspiration from things that catch his eye and imagination, ranging from rural landscapes and flowers to graffiti, pop culture and urban imagery. More recently, his practice has turned towards urban landscapes and architecture, translating buildings, streets and the city's visual rhythms into expressive compositions through thread and stitch.
By pushing a familiar, everyday machine beyond its conventional purpose, Kalidas creates a unique visual language at the intersection of craft, drawing and contemporary art.