Through AIF Banyan Impact Fellowship’s Professional Development Grant, many of us Fellows discovered new ways to grow our skills and learn about the work of other organizations. I took this opportunity to explore the world of art in the social sector. First, I spent a day observing the daily operations of Aagaaz Theater Trust, at their community space in Nizamuddin Basti. There, a collection of actors who have been with the program since its inception worked on their own creative stories, and also spent the second half of the day working with young kids from the Basti leading activities around reading, art making, and acting.
Through this grant, I also had the privilege of observing and participating in a 3-day workshop at a Mobile Creche center in Gurgaon with the team at ArtReach India. This workshop, led by the talented artist Akshay Sethi, focused on using shapes to construct animals, objects, and people. The center’s students then took their creativity further by making stamps and crafting their paintings on a large canvas scroll. Under the guidance of Anarya, ArtReach’s dedicated Program Manager, and with the invaluable support of ArtReach intern, Kajol, the workshop was a vibrant experience for everyone involved. I was able to witness the transformative power of art in action.
In this video, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the workshop, along with insightful interviews with Akshay and Anarya. They’ll share their perspectives on how art can be a tool for social justice and empowerment, bringing creativity and inspiration to children in meaningful ways.
Join us as we explore the intersection of art, education, and social change.
