Art & Craft Workshops at KCC
Join us this March for an enriching lineup of workshops that celebrate creativity and craftsmanship. Immerse yourself in the Japanese art of Ikebana (flower arrangement), discover toy-making with Kat Um Kut Um, learn mural painting, explore the delicate art of thread drawing, and craft objects with Herbal Ivory, an eco-friendly alternative. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, our March workshops promise to inspire your creativity.
Drawing with Thread
Embroider Your Imagination with Art
Date: Saturday 23 March
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Venue: KCC
Explore the captivating realm of embroidery and storytelling through our one-of-a-kind hands-on workshop on thread stitching art. Discover traditional techniques like 'Kantha' alongside modern fabric design, as we blend stitching with creativity. Join us as we recycle cloth, intertwine threads of vibrant colors, and infuse images with meaning, crafting not just art but meaningful self-expression.
What You Will Learn:
• Basic stitching skills, processes and techniques
• Layout creation and fabric selection
• Art of recycling cloth to craft personalized masterpieces
• Inspiration for various DIY projects
• Innovative ideas for unique gifting
• Framing and presentation of final products
About Bratati Sarkar
Bratati Sarkar is a seasoned artist and art educator at the BSS School Kolkata. With a background in painting from the Govt. College of Art & Craft, Bratati is renowned for her interdisciplinary approach to art. As an active member of The Bengal Painters and a former faculty at Rangtuli, she brings a wealth of experience to her workshops.
Recommended For:
Students, working professionals, hobby artists, or anyone interested in stitching and art can participate.
Going Green - Natural Dye Workshop
Date: 23 March 2024
Time: 2.00 pm to 5.30 pm
Venue: KCC
Uncover the magic of sustainable craftsmanship at our natural dye workshop, where artisans and creators are embracing a greener approach to artistic expression. Facilitated by the noted emerging contemporary artist Ujjal Dey from Santiniketan, who has been using and researching natural dye as a medium of creative expression for over a decade, participants will learn the basic techniques of the craft and create a piece of artwork themselves under the artist’s guidance.
By the end of the workshop, participants can expect to:
• acquire new skills and techniques in natural dyeing
• gain insights into the importance of eco-friendly mediums
• discover how to infuse traditional mediums with contemporary expression
What will you cover:
• Introduction to natural dye materials and preparation
• Basic dyeing techniques and applications
• Colour mixing and layering experimentation
• Guidance on creating unique artwork
• Tips for sustainable dyeing practices
About Ujjal Dey
Ujjal Dey is a contemporary artist pursuing a doctorate from Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan. With a background in textile and design from Kala Bhavana, Santiniketan, Ujjal's semi-abstract works explore tradition, rituals, ecology, and landscape. His doctoral research focuses on indigenous traditions and sustainable printing and dyeing techniques.
Recommended for:
People aged 15+ years.
Mural Workshop
Discover the Magic of Mural Painting
Date: 30-31 March (Sat-Sun)
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Venue: KCC
Explore the captivating world of mural painting with our immersive Mural Workshop. This workshop provides participants with comprehensive, step-by-step instructions on mosaic-making principles, utilizing ceramics, and mastering precision tools. Learn the essential construction methods and installation techniques.
What You'll Learn:
•Designing techniques and methods specific to mosaic murals
•Shape and design in mosaic compositions
•Sourcing materials and procedures for fixing
•Exploring the rich history behind Mosaic Murals
•Learn the nuances of colour and geometric relationships
•Enhancing teamwork skills for effective collaboration
Trainer Profile: Tamal Bhattacharya
Tamal Bhattacharya is a distinguished Art Teacher at DPS Ruby Park, Kolkata, renowned for his exemplary contributions to the field of art education, both locally and internationally. Recipient of the prestigious I Lead Best Art Teacher award, Tamal received the Merit Scholarship from Visva Bharati University and the Nasher Mohammad Scholarship from M.S. University. He has had over 50 exhibitions and installations showcasing his mastery of mural art.
Recommended Audience:
Ideal for individuals aged 15+. No prior experience is necessary; only a passion for creativity and a willingness to explore the world of mosaic murals.
Kat Um Kut Um
Toy-Making Workshop
Date: Saturday 2 March
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Venue: KCC
The workshop offers participants an opportunity to engage in colourful and creative art using various shapes of wooden blocks and pieces. Participants will learn techniques for creation, colouring, detailing, and presentation
What You'll Learn:
•Master the techniques for creating Kat Um Kut Um art
•Explore different processing methods to bring your creations to life
•Learn the art of blending colours and adding intricate details
•Unique ideas for displaying your finished pieces
Trainer Profile: Sanjib Chakraborty
Sanjib Chakraborty is a highly accomplished artist and educator with a diverse range of experience in the field of visual arts. With a background in Graphic Design/Applied Art, Sanjib brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. He studied at the prestigious Government College of Art & Craft and has received numerous awards, including the Dilip Dasgupta Memorial Gold Medal and the B.C. Roy Trustee Award. Sanjib has showcased his work in renowned galleries, both locally and internationally.
Recommended Audience:
This workshop is suitable for individuals aged 15+ who are passionate about art and eager to explore the world of Kat Um Kut Um.
Herbal Ivory (Shola) Workshop
Transform Natural Wonders into Art
Date: 9-10 March (Sat-Sun)
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Venue: KCC
Originating from West Bengal, the Sholapith craft is renowned for its elegance, beauty, and fine craftsmanship. In this workshop, we delve into the intricate techniques of working with Shola Pith.
What You'll Learn:
•Gain proficiency in crafting objects using Shola Pith, honing your skills and creativity.
•Create various decorative items.
•Crafting step flowers, creating delicate roses, sculpting pigeons, fashioning China roses, and crafting intricate lotus designs
•Understand the concept of sustainable printing
Trainer Profile: Rathindra Nath Halder
Rathindra Nath Halder is an esteemed artisan and recipient of accolades from renowned institutions such as Gurusaday Museum, Pune Society, and Ramakrishna Seva Ashram. Rathindra comes from a lineage of acclaimed artisans, with his father Rabindra Nath Halder being a State Awardee and Asian Paints awardee. Rathindra's vast experience includes showcasing his designs in prestigious venues like the Gurusaday Museum, Calcutta University, and Sony 8.
Recommended Audience:
Ideal for individuals aged 15+, who possess a keen interest in learning about Shola Pith craftsmanship. No prior experience is required.
Ikebana
Art of Flower Arrangement
Date: Saturday 16 March
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Venue: KCC
Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging and participants will be guided by experts from Wafukai, Ikebana School, Kolkata Chapter. Through hands-on experience, participants will explore two traditional Japanese flower arrangement styles. The workshop will be led by Kazuko Fujiwara Nigam, Head of Wafukai.
What You'll Learn:
•Understand the cultural and philosophical roots of Ikebana.
•Learn fundamental principles and concepts, spatial arrangement and balance.
•Explore various techniques employed in Ikebana.
•Gain insight into choosing and handling flowers and foliage.
•Discover the significance of colour in Ikebana compositions.
•Learn techniques for finalizing and presenting your creation.
Trainer Profile: Kazuko Fujiwara Nigam
Kazuko Fujiwara Nigam is a distinguished figure in the world of floral artistry, revered for Ikebana and her contributions to the promotion of Japanese culture, particularly in India. With over four decades of experience in teaching Ikebana, she has captivated audiences with her intricate designs and impeccable technique. She has been a judge and demonstrator at various national and international floral events.
Recommended Audience:
Suitable for individuals aged 15+. No prior experience in flower arranging is necessary. Come with a curious mind and a passion for the beauty of nature.