Seminar dwells on integrating arts & crafts with modern tech

BBK DAV College for Women organised a national seminar sponsored by the ICSSR (Indian Council of Social Science Research) on the theme, “Contemporary Practices in Traditional Art and Craft of North-Western India”. Prof Harmohinder Singh Bedi, Chancellor, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, was the chief guest while Prof Him Chatterjee, Chairperson, Department of Visual Arts, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, was the keynote speaker at the inaugural ceremony.

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Principal Dr Pushpinder Walia said educational institutions serve as temples of learning. “As we navigate the transition phase of integrating modern technologies with traditional art and craft, it is imperative that we retain the essence of our cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities,” she said, adding that by creating a fusion between art, sustainability and technology, one can reshape old artistic traditions in a way that aligns with contemporary needs, ensuring their relevance for future generations.

Prof Him Chatterjee said that Indian art has been shaped by diverse influences—spanning indigenous traditions to external interactions with European and Persian art forms. The renaissance of Indian art through digital media is enabling the artists to bridge the past with the present, allowing traditional forms to be reinterpreted in contemporary styles,” he said.

Prof Fayaz Ahmad Nika, Chairperson, Design Innovative Cell and Dean, Management Studies, Central University of Kashmir, highlighted the historical significance of Kashmir’s handicrafts in economic development and tourism. He emphasised the need to preserve this cultural heritage while addressing challenges like low artisan returns and integrating technology for its revival.

Dr Harmohinder Singh Bedi said emphasising Sanskrit and Vedic texts, Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati contributed to the preservation of classical, artistic traditions.

The first technical session was chaired by Dr Him Chatterjee while Paramjit Kaur Kapoor, empanelled designer, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, was the resource person for the session. During her lecture, Kapoor, acquainted the students with technicalities of Phulkari embroidery. Sixteen research papers were presented during this session on topics related to traditional art and craft of India.

The second technical session was chaired by Prof Fayaz Ahmad Nika while Dr Gurcharan Singh, Chairperson, Department of Fine Arts, Kurukshetra University, was the resource person. Fifteen research papers were presented during the session.