Cultural Community Contributions
1. Curation of a Community Art Project
In March 2019, I had the pleasure of curating the "Art Across Generations" graffiti workshop at Matoshree Vruddhashram (Old Age Home) in Pune, India. This initiative, supported by the Praffulla Dahanukar Art Foundation (PDAF) under the Sadanand community arts project, aimed to bridge the gap between young artists and senior citizens.The project focused on fostering connection and artistic expression. To incorporate the residents' creativity, I provided them with an iPad to draw their designs. These drawings, featuring elements like suns, coconut trees, and Rangoli patterns, became the heart of the final artwork.This project wasn't just about creating art; it was about creating a space for shared experience. By collaborating with the residents, I learned their stories and the meanings behind their art. The experience culminated in a beautiful graffiti artwork that became a focal point at Matoshree. Seeing the pride in the residents' eyes and the appreciation from visiting families was truly rewarding. It solidified my belief in the power of art to connect communities and create a lasting positive impact.
2. Preserving Tribal Heritage
In 2019, I collaborated with Mr. Viral Pandya, the founder of Wabi Sabi Films and manage "Indigenous India" YouTube Channel, on an impactful project focused on documenting tribal music and festivals in Gujarat, India. We conducted in-depth interviews with tribal musicians in remote villages and captured the essence of the Indian Tribal Music Festival at Aadiwasi Academy, Tejgadh, Chota Udaipur. This initiative was crucial for preserving and promoting the rich heritage of these tribal communities. By documenting their unique musical traditions and cultural practices, my main goal was to expose this deeply rooted Indian culture to the world and to future generations. I aimed to highlight how, with limited resources, these artisans create beautiful pieces of art. This project not only brought recognition to their cultural practices but also played a vital role in promoting cultural appreciation and socio-economic sustainability within these communities.
3. Socio-Cultural Documentation Project
In 2018, I assisted Mr. Hanoz Patel in documenting the Dhebaria Rabari community’s Bharat embroidery art in Kutch, Gujarat. Known for its katab (appliqué), moti (beadwork), and abhla (mirror-work) patterns, this traditional craft reflects the community's myths and lifestyle. Historically, Bharat embroidery was integral to dowry customs, imposing a significant burden on women who could not join their husbands until completing the intricate work. In 1995, to alleviate this social pressure, the Dhebaria Rabari Panchayat banned the making and wearing of Bharat. This ban aimed to liberate women but risked the art's extinction. Efforts by NGOs and artisans like Rabari Pabiben aim to revive and preserve this heritage. This project highlighted the cultural significance of Bharat embroidery and aimed to expose their rich heritage to the world, promoting cultural preservation and appreciation for future generations.
Link of the Article: https://www.sahapedia.org/the-rabaris-the-nomadic-pastoral-community-of-kutch
4. Field Research on Pastoralist Community, Kutch, Gujarat
In 2013, I participated in a field school led by Dr. Matthieu Salpeteur from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, conducted in Mindyala Village, Kutch, Gujarat, as part of a project aimed at understanding changes within the Pastoralist Rabari community of Kutch with the objective of acquiring knowledge and skills in field research techniques.
Field research on the pastoralist Rabari community of Kutch, India, is important for preserving their cultural heritage, understanding their unique way of life, conserving biodiversity, and developing sustainable livelihoods. The Rabari community has a rich cultural heritage that includes unique traditions, crafts, and skills. As predominantly pastoralists, their traditional knowledge systems and livestock rearing practices have an important role in the conservation of biodiversity, including rare animal breeds and plant species. Field research can help identify the challenges faced by the Rabari community and suggest ways to develop sustainable livelihoods that are aligned with their cultural values and traditions. Overall, this research can contribute to the conservation of the Rabari community's cultural and ecological heritage while supporting their well-being and sustainable development.
5. Sound Workshop at Mental Hospital, Baroda, India
In 2013, I collaborated with Dr. Igal Myrtenbaum, a sound artist from Israel, to conduct a sound workshop at a mental hospital in Baroda, India. This project involved documenting patients' expressions through etchings, highlighting the profound impact of art in therapeutic settings. The curated sound workshop played a significant role in improving the mental health of patients, reducing anxiety, depression, and stress levels. It provided patients with a creative outlet to express themselves and engage in therapeutic activities, fostering a sense of community and promoting social interaction, thereby reducing feelings of isolation. Additionally, the use of sound and music in therapy enhanced cognitive function, memory, and overall well-being. This project underscored the importance of integrating art into mental health care and raised awareness about the therapeutic benefits of creative expression.