Art and craft have the power to transform lives and communities by providing a platform for
expression, creativity, and personal growth. Art provides a medium for individuals to express
their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a non-verbal way. Expressing oneself through art
leads to better self-awareness and emotional understanding and encourages individuals to
think outside the box. Participating in art and craft activities, whether in a group setting or
individually, provides opportunities for social interaction and build like-minded communities.
In rural Maharashtra, the Warli tribe has found empowerment and economic sustainability
through their traditional Warli art. NGOs and few of organizations have worked to
promote and market Warli art globally, providing the artists with a platform to showcase their
talent. This not only preserves the cultural heritage of the tribe but also helps in generating
income for the community.

Sharing ideas, collaborating on projects, and receiving feedback contribute to the
development of social skills and the ability to work effectively with others. Accomplishing
creative tasks and seeing the results of one’s efforts can boost self-esteem and confidence.
The Dharavi Art Room, located in one of Asia’s largest slums in Mumbai, focuses on
providing art education to children. By engaging in creative activities, children not only
develop artistic skills but also enhance their cognitive abilities. The initiative aims to
empower these children by providing them with a means of self-expression and potentially
opening up opportunities for creative careers in the future.

Art can serve as a form of catharsis, allowing individuals to express and release emotions in a
constructive way. Art therapy is particularly helpful in processing and coping with
challenging experiences. The sense of achievement derived from completing an art project
contributes positively to an individual’s self-perception. Artist and social worker Rouble Nagi
has been actively involved in using art for social change in Mumbai’s slums. She initiated the
“Misaal Mumbai” project, where she transformed the walls of slums into vibrant murals and
artworks. This not only beautified the surroundings but also instilled a sense of pride and
ownership among the residents. The project aimed to inspire positive change and create a
more uplifting environment. Many organizations are working towards preserving traditional
crafts and handloom weaving. By promoting the skills of local artisans these organizations
ensure the continuation of this cultural heritage. Through various projects and collaborations,
these weavers around India in various states have gained recognition, contributing to the
economic upliftment of their communities.

Art has therapeutic benefits and can serve as a form of stress relief. The act of creating art is
meditative and calming at the same time. Whenever I feel agitated I understand that this is the
time I should go to paper and paints, only self-expression through my dearest medium
miniature painting I loosen my lethargy of day-to-day monotonous routine. Recently I was
invited by PEACOCK LIFE, Hyderabad- home for interior services and furniture to present
an Ikebana demonstration for it’s clients. I gained recognition and popularity, clients were
happy to learn basic flower-arranging techniques for homes and the store won few new loyal
clients.

Today there are many such life-style studios, cultural hubs, art galleries, coffee shops and
eateries encouraging new artists to come and hold workshops for their clients.
Live art! Enjoy arts !!