Crafting into Artists

Unveiling the Universality of Heritage – Building up of an artist into a creative visionary

The integration of modern and traditional pedagogies fine-tuned the curriculum of Kalamandalam. Instead of viewing heritage as static and confined to the past, our pedagogy encourages students to understand heritage within its contemporary context. Artist-students explore how heritage is continually reinterpreted and reshaped by societal changes, globalization, and cultural dynamics. By examining the social, political, and economic factors influencing heritage, students gain a deeper appreciation for its fluidity and relevance in today’s world.The pedagogy of ‘heritage as a contemporary phenomenon’ fosters critical thinking skills by prompting artist-students to question dominant narratives and explore multiple perspectives on heritage. Artist-students critically analyze how heritage is constructed, represented, and contested in different contexts, challenging assumptions and stereotypes. This encourages artist-student to engage in informed discussions about the complexities of heritage and its implications for identity, power, and social justice. Recognizing the interconnectedness of heritage the pedagogy encourages artist-students to adopt a global perspective on heritage. By understanding heritage as a ‘global phenomenon’, students develop a sense of cultural empathy and appreciation for diverse cultural expressions and traditions.

Nurturing ancient arts through contemporary techniques involves preserving the essence and authenticity of traditional art-forms while adapting them to resonate with modern audiences and contexts. While traditional techniques are revered and preserved, contemporary techniques also integrate modern approaches and techniques into the practice. This includes using digital tools for set design or costume creation, incorporating multimedia elements into the performances, or exploring interdisciplinary collaborations with artists from other disciplines. By embracing contemporary methodologies, artists can breathe new life into ancient arts and make them more accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences. Artist-students are encouraged to push the boundaries of tradition, exploring new interpretations, styles, and themes while remaining grounded in the foundational principles of the art-form. This methodology encourages experimentation and innovation within the artistic process. Through offering artist-students with a holistic education that combines skill development with creative exploration and critical thinking, our pedagogy ensures the continuity and vitality of ancient arts for future generations. Through rigorous and deep physical training, we embrace the unique identity of every student, nurturing their innate potential to blossom into creative, imaginative artists.