Education Must Go On
Education Must Go On
A Sustainable Art Project
On the occasion of Republic Day 2022, I had the opportunity to create a special tableau for the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) section of the Government of West Bengal. This was an incredible learning experience that allowed me to combine art, education, and sustainability into a meaningful message. The project aimed to highlight the importance of education, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, using only eco-friendly materials to reinforce the values of sustainability and responsibility in artistic expression.
The inspiration for this tableau came from a Bengali phrase:
"Jotoi Baruk Corona (COVID-19), Pora Suna Chero Na, Khola Rekho Moner Janala."
("No matter what happens, never stop learning—always keep your mind open.")
The pandemic had a severe impact on students worldwide, closing schools and disrupting education, particularly for underprivileged children. This tableau was designed to serve as a reminder that, despite challenges, learning should never stop. The visual elements emphasized resilience, curiosity, and the transformative power of education.
The tableau was built on a battery-operated e-rickshaw (toto) for mobility and easy transportation.
The structure was created using wooden frames, MDF boards, and other recycled materials, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Special attention was given to using eco-friendly and upcycled materials, promoting awareness of responsible artistic practices.
The design incorporated symbols of learning, such as books, open windows, and children engaged in educational activities, reinforcing the central message of continued education.
This was my first engagement with a government project, which provided invaluable experience in understanding administrative procedures. The process involved:
Applying for a tender
Filling out a quotation at the District Magistrate’s office
Navigating official approval procedures
I am deeply grateful for the guidance and support provided by the NCLP section officer and the entire team, who helped me navigate the complexities of government projects.
Educational Message: The tableau highlighted the importance of uninterrupted learning, despite external challenges.
Sustainability: By utilizing recycled and upcycled materials, the project promoted environmental consciousness in creative work.
Public Awareness: Designed to capture public attention, the tableau encouraged reflection on the role of education in empowering children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
This experience taught me several important lessons:
Understanding government project procedures and requirements.
Managing large-scale artistic initiatives effectively.
Recognizing the power of art in raising awareness about crucial social issues.
The importance of perseverance and collaboration in executing impactful projects.
I sincerely appreciate the NCLP team, the District Magistrate's office in Cooch Behar, the section officer, and all those who supported me in this endeavor. Their encouragement and assistance played a vital role in the success of this project.
it was a journey of learning, resilience, and advocacy for education. The project reinforced my belief in the power of creativity as a tool for social change. Moving forward, I aim to continue exploring ways to use art for meaningful impact and hope to contribute to more initiatives that promote education and sustainability.
I remain deeply grateful to the NCLP team, the District Magistrate’s office, and all those who supported and guided me through this experience.