Page 56 - Craftcil Feb 2024

activities in NER

Design Development Training Programme initiated at Chenga Traditional Handloom Cluster, Barpeta
District, Assam ; Duration - 20th February - 25th March 2024

This program engages 30 artisans at the cluster's Common
Facility Centre (CFC) and is meticulously designed to foster
innovation and creativity among artisans, with a primary focus on
enhancing design skills and product development techniques.
Through a series of workshops, hands-on sessions, and
collaborative projects, participants are exposed to diverse design
concepts, trends, and methodologies. Led by experienced
designers and industry experts, the program provides artisans
with valuable insights into market demands, consumer
preferences, and the importance of product differentiation.
It encourages artisans to explore traditional motifs, patterns,
and techniques while also experimenting with contemporary
styles and materials.The program's curriculum encompasses
various stages of the design process, from conceptualisation and development, encouraging artisans to prioritize environmental
prototyping to refinement and finalization. Participants are conservation and social responsibility in their work.
encouraged to draw inspiration from their cultural heritage, local
By the program's conclusion, artisans will not only expand
surroundings, and personal experiences, thereby infusing their
their design repertoire but also develop a deeper understanding
creations with authenticity and uniqueness.
of the design's role in enhancing product value and market
Throughout the program, artisans are receiving personalised competitiveness. Equipped with newfound skills and confidence,
guidance and feedback, allowing them to refine their designs they will be better positioned to meet the evolving demands of
and overcome challenges effectively. Additionally, they are the marketplace and contribute to the long-term sustainability of
introduced to digital tools and software for design visualization the Chenga Traditional Handloom Cluster. Overall, the Design
and documentation, enhancing their proficiency in modern Development Program serves as a catalyst for the holistic
design techniques. Furthermore, the program emphasises the development of artisans, empowering them to innovate, create,
importance of sustainable practices and ethical sourcing in design and thrive in today's dynamic market landscape.

Field visit conducted on 27 – 28 February 2024 at Cane & Bamboo Cluster, Mokokchung Nagaland

Mr. Vile Khoto Pusa, a designer affiliated with EPCH,
undertook a cluster visit to the Cane and Bamboo Cluster
in Mokokchung, Nagaland. The purpose of this visit was to
engage with members of the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV),
Implementing Agencies (IA), and artisans within the cluster.
The primary objective was to foster interaction with
stakeholders and facilitate the sharing of design ideas and
concepts.

During the visit, Mr. Pusa actively engaged with SPV
members, IAs, and artisans, creating a conducive
environment for dialogue and collaboration. Through discussions The exchange of ideas and designs aimed to inspire creativity
and presentations, he shared innovative design concepts, drawing among cluster artisans, empowering them to explore new
inspiration from both traditional and contemporary sources. techniques, patterns, and motifs in their craft. Mr. Pusa provided

56 CRAFTCIL • February 2024