10.27.18 Pottery, Pulp and Pretty Cool Cafe...


The rest of our day centers around visits (and shopping) to Ram Gopal Blue Pottery.

Pottery and tiles are rolled out like pie dough in a silica sand 

the same texture and make-up as the sand 

on Siesta Key and Lido Key Beaches.

Eventually all pieces find themselves in this gigantic kiln. 

Extra pieces of larger items are always included 

just in case there is breakage.

Cathy is demonstrating how the workers gain access to the kiln 

to retrieve the finished items.

At the paper mill we see how large strips of cotton are combined 

into a thick mush of pulp, which is continuously stirred 

until it is ready to move onto the next stage.

The paper is pressed and wet then water is removed.

After drying and pressing it is a sheet with parchment-like texture - ready to be made into stationery, envelopes, boxes, gift wrap, etc.

These ladies are assembling shoe-size boxes.

Cutting other products.

More assembly of boxes.

Our last stop was lunch at this newer restaurant, Tapri. Squeezed into the urban landscape like everything else in India, it had an environmental focus and zen approach to food that was quite delightful. We were able to enjoy a tasting menu of assorted appetizers, entrees and desserts on recycled dishes made of pressed leaves. Apparently it is developing into quite the university hangout.

The outside dining area.

The recycled plates and bowls.

Same recycled art suspended from ceiling outside the restrooms.

Little zen garden outside.