Thursday, April 4, 2013

DRDA launches project to promote tribal artists

The New Indian Express (Bhubaneswar), APril 4, 2013

District Rural Development Authority (DRDA), Kalahandi has launched an innovative project to provide livelihood to tribal youths by promoting traditional tribal art forms which are on the verge of extinction.
DRDA Project Director Gouri Parasar said the traditional art forms of Kutia, Dongria and Saura tribes are losing popularity and in the absence of patronisation, those are on the verge of extinction. In order to revive the art forms and create scope of livelihood through art, DRDA through District Supply and Marketing Society (DSMS), Kalahandi has taken the initiative by forming an artists’ society, Tulika Production, in Lanjigarh.
Parasar said Rs  90,000 have been invested to impart training to tribal artists. Initially, 20 tribal youths in the age group of 12 to 22 years have been imparted training by qualified artists for one month. It is contemplated to provide market linkage and exposure to the artists through DSMS, she added.
After the youths completed 15 days of training, an exhibition-cum-sale of their artistic creations was organised at Bhawanipatna which was highly acclaimed by the art lovers. Their 40 art pieces were exhibited.
Coordinator of the training-cum-exhibition Akhaya Pattnaik the artists have a natural flair. They only need direction, patronage and exposure, he added.

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