A unique home decor and lifestyle brand, Olee Maatee was started as an initiative by CREDAR (Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship, Development and Research). Located off Law College Road, this studio is home to products that are designed by fine arts graduates of DeCAD (Devrukh College of Art and Design).
At the helm is artist Bharati Pitre, whose efforts have resulted in the formation of DeCAD and CREDAR. Her ingenious paper-mâché́ figurines have been on our radar for a while now, but she established Olee Maatee and to work with artists who are originally idol-makers, has led to the creation of a brand that creates one-of-a-kind pieces.
Everything that's designed here takes inspiration from India. It has a homegrown sentiment and flavour, but the sensibilities are global. Their collection 'From Konkan With Love' features collectibles, fridge magnets, and even paperweights inspired by the Konkan region. You'll find fridge magnets and paperweights that are essentially a sack of onions, potatoes, and other items grown in the Konkan belt. 'Sahyadri Hues' is a tribute to the forest, rivers, and skies of the region. Afterall, the mountain range belongs to the very artists who make these products. You'll find several clay plates and bowls in beautiful blue-green-brown hues coming together. The third major collection is the 'Van Gogh Edit' and takes inspiration from his impasto swirls, rich blue skies and almond blossoms. You'll find bird-shaped paperweights, bowls, pendants, square plates and more in this collection feature artistic swirls and a lot of blues. Olee Maatee also has a selection of Bharati Pitre's work as collectibles. There are also clay and paper-mâché́ figurines and pendants.
The prices here start at INR 600. You'll find a mug for that price or you can buy a set at INR 1,000. Bowls and plates usually cost around INR 800 or more. While collectibles have varying prices. You can choose to visit the studio or if you're not based in Pune, hop to their website to buy.