An art workshop on Warli sketches, and its incorporation on handmade products, was held on the 18th Dec 2019 at Uttarakhand Science Education & Research Centre (USERC), Dept. of Science & Technology, Govt. of Uttarakhand in collaboration with Saahas Foundation Inclusive Resource Centre.
This inclusive event was held to mobilise the participation of organisations within the community to identify and develop diverse livelihood-centric vocational models and practices. The workshop was built around the vision of inclusive strategy for employment and capacity building, especially for persons with special needs and those who are socioeconomically marginalised.
The workshop engaged over twenty participants from six institutions based in Dehradun (Saahas Foundation Inclusive Resource Centre, Herbertpur Christian Hospital – Community Homes, Project Arunima, Latika Roy Foundation, Tarang School, MaaLuxmi Subhuti and women from self-help groups working in the community).
It was facilitated by Mrs Aruna Tomar, a renowned artist. The five-hour-long workshop was fulfilling and engaged participants in diverse group learning activities ranging from fundamentals of art to Warli – history, relevance, sketches and its application.
Dr Durgesh Pant, Director – USERC in his inaugural address emphasised the significance of such sustainable and successful collaborations.
Shahab stressed the need of empowering local community-led institutions, promoting self-employment opportunities and community engagement.
The workshop revolved around the central theme of learning Warli art which is believed to be amongst the oldest forms of art in history. Warli adaption in handmade products can enhance their value and helps in developing a keen sense of art as well.
The workshop concluded with certificates awarded to the participants. The participant organisations not only expressed their interest in this inclusive event but also appreciated the rights-based approach of the organizers.