Engagement with artisans: Students learn art of block printing

Lessons with master artisans will continue till January 10

ISLAMABAD:

Master artisans from four provinces imparted skills to participants at a block printing workshop which began on Monday.

The week-long workshop is a continuation of the ‘Craft of the Month’ programme, held by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) every month. One craft is taught by artisans for a week every month, and this month’s programme will focus on block printing, and began at Lok Virsa’s Heritage Museum.

The artisans teaching their craft during the week include Ameer Bukhsh, who has extensive experience in vegetable dyeing, Akbar Chughtai from Punjab, Syed Mutahir Hussain Bukhari, and Abdul Hayee from Sindh, with an expertise in traditional Arak making.

In her address at the opening ceremony, chief guest Senator Nuzhat Sadiq spoke of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. “Lok Virsa has taken the right step to raise awareness among our youth by educating them about different crafts.



This training programme will go a long way in preserving the centuries-old tradition of block printing in Pakistan, which has a linkage with the ancient civilizations of Mohenjodaro and Harappa.”

Fifty children, aged between six and 14, have registered for the programme. The children study at various schools working under the administrative control of the Federal Directorate of Education. The classes, being held at the Heritage Museum, are also open to visitors.

“We want our children to know the significance of handmade products,” shared Dr Fouzia Saeed, executive director at Lok Virsa. Learning the difference between vegetable and chemical dyes will help them think aesthetically and creatively, she added.

Students from Islamabad Model College for Girls, G-8/4, presented folk songs and a cultural diversity show titled ‘Rhythm of Unity’. Lok Virsa artists Akhtar, Ansar and Sajid joined in with a short tabbla performance.

Certificates were awarded to participants who attended the previous workshop on weaving. Their work was also displayed for visitors.

Block printing lessons will continue till January 10, between 10am and 6pm.



The craft of the month project aims to create a link between culture and education. It encourages the youth to value dignity of labour, and helps in creating an understanding of the contribution of craftspeople toward the sustainable development of communities. It also provides a platform for children who want to grow into well-rounded individuals, and enhance their skill sets by learning from experienced artisans.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 5^th, 2016.