Dimapur, February 7: Renowned Naga artist and designer Aku Zeliang received widespread acclaim following his showcase at the Delhi Art Fair, with Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, hailing him as a “STAR - an artist par excellence” in a social media tribute. Metha praised Zeliang’s creative works for pushing artistic boundaries and telling centuries-old stories in new imaginative spaces, saying his presence at the art fair made the state proud.
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| Aku Zeliang at the Delhi Art Fair. (Image:x.com/abumetha) |
Aku Zeliang is the founder of Cane Concept and Urra Design, studios committed to integrating traditional knowledge and craftsmanship passed down through generations into contemporary design. His work blends indigenous materials such as cane, bamboo and wood with modern aesthetics, celebrating cultural heritage while expanding the reach of Northeastern Indian artistry.
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Zeliang’s creative achievements extend beyond India’s capital. He represented India at the prestigious Homo Faber event in Venice in 2024, where he collaborated with designer Gunjan Gupta to showcase a project titled “The Tokri Chair,” transforming hand-woven baskets by local artisans into an innovative design piece - spotlighting the craftsmanship of Northeast India on a global stage.
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| Naga artist Aku Zeliang with Abu Metha, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, at the Delhi Art Fair. (Image:x.com/abumetha) |
Earlier, Zeliang also took part in the Ambiente Fair in Frankfurt under the “Talents by Ambiente” initiative, representing India alongside other young international designers. His studio Urra Design & Cane Concept has been recognised with awards such as the Young Talent accolade at the Elle Deco International Design Awards and has seen its products featured in 26 countries.
Abu Metha’s public endorsement underscores the growing recognition of Zeliang’s role in elevating indigenous creative traditions within broader national and international art and design communities.
