Ayush Kasliwal

About Ayush Kasliwal

I’m a designer who believes that objects tell stories. Growing up in India, I was surrounded by craft and culture, which led me to study at the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, and eventually to co-found AKFD Studio and AnanTaya in Jaipur with my wife, Geetanjali.My work is informed by mythology, architecture, and cultural narratives, brought to life through a contemporary aesthetic. I believe that “objects are messages in physical form,” and this belief guides projects across scales; Whether designing an installation at an airport, a piece of furniture, or an e-rickshaw, I see design as a way to create connections between people and the world around them.Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition from Architectural Digest, Lexus Design Award India, EDIDA India, UNESCO, and other global forums. My journey has included speaking, teaching, and collaborating with communities and artisans to bring design, technology, and creative capital to traditional crafts, ensuring they continue to thrive.At the heart of what I do is a commitment to working with artisan communities, using design and technology to help traditional crafts thrive. I believe in design that is rooted in place, culture, and people, and I continue to learn from the incredible artisans I work with every day.

Experience

1. Founder & Creative Director

   Akfd

   Apr 2006 — Present · Jaipur, IN

Education

• National Institute of Design

  Diploma, Industrial Furniture Design

  1991 — 1996

• University of Wales, Cardiff

  Industrial Furniture Design

  1995 — 1995