Confluence of art, design and technology at TDF bootcamp

DIMAPUR — The three-day bootcamp organised by the Tribal Design Forum (TDF) at ‘The Heritage’ in Kohima, to collaboratively explore how art, design and technology can benefit the tribal communities of Nagaland, concluded on October 4.

In a press release, the TDF media coordinator stated that the final day of the bootcamp concluded with insightful discussions on tribal art, skills, technology, tourism, and policy design.

The session commenced with a brief introduction by Anupam Purti, a TDF member, who emphasised the forum’s role in connecting tribal communities across India with global experts.

The day also witnessed the screenings of music video ‘Quiet a story’ by Takar Nabam, documentaries ‘Laitiam’ by Lapdiang Artimal Syiem and ‘The lost art of artisanal textiles’ by Chentei Khiammnungan and music video ‘Rukom ka Ri’ by Rida and The Musical Folk.

The talks and presentation sessions included topics like intellectual property, self designed education and Nagaland’s textile traditions and crafts.

The first session on intellectual property featured Hetvi Trivedi, a GI expert from the World Intellectual Property Organisation, who discussed the significance of IP rights for tribal communities. She provided an overview of India’s IP law framework and its application in protecting tribal art and culture.

Abhijit Sinha from Bangalore followed with a presentation on his ‘Design for yourself’ project, which promotes community-based non-formal education systems. Sinha highlighted the success of these systems in Meghalaya, leading to the establishment of 22 ‘nooks’ where young people can explore their unique abilities and find suitable work.

Padma Shri awardee Sentila Yanger delivered a comprehensive presentation on the intricate designs, weaving techniques, symbolism and stories found in traditional Naga attires.

Linoka Shiku added to the conversation by exploring the languishing crafts of Nagaland and their connection to the local ecology.

Advisor for Industry and Commerce, Nagaland, Hekani Jakhalu, who also visited the artisans of woven thread and observed traditional weaving techniques, lauded the TDF bootcamp for its efforts in preserving and elevating tribal culture, traditions, and tourism.

She assured the Tribal Design Forum of her full support.

Announcement of 1000 TDF SSC scholarships

The TDF also announced the launch of 1000 TDF SSC scholarship to provide free of cost study material to the needy SSC aspirant from Nagaland. Application will be open from October 15, 2024 on www.tribaldesignforum.com,” it stated.

The bootcamp concluded with a panel discussion featuring H Alongse Sangtam, Joint Director of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of Nagaland; T Nengshi Wati, Senior Investment Officer at the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN); Margaret Zinyu, founder of Woven Thread, and moderator Dr. Anugrah Pandi.

The panel discussed topics related to innovation in Nagaland’s art, skills, and culture, and explored how design interventions can drive sustainable tourism and the development of local crafts, it added.

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