As part of the Indian Museum's outreach programmes, a special initiative called Soulful Silence Art Workshops is being conducted for individuals with mental disability on Mondays from 3pm to 5pm on the museum premises.
A new theme is chosen for each session in keeping with the needs and likings of the participants. The upcoming session will be held on June 27.
Open to all age groups, the art workshops take place in the Painting Gallery and Textile & Decorative Art Gallery under the guidance of instructors. Individuals along with their parents are welcome for each session.
The initiative, which began from December 2021, is the brainchild of Arnab Basu, curator and in-charge of the Art Section, Indian Museum, and supported by Arijit Dutta Choudhury, director-general of National Council of Science Museums and director in-charge of Indian Museum.
These workshops are being held to provide a platform to individuals with mental disability so that they can appreciate the true nature of the artworks and artefacts kept inside the museum.
“It’s gross injustice if we can’t provide information or infotainment to people with mental disability. It’s our duty to make them feel special. That’s why the Indian Museum holds regular sessions for such individuals on its premises every week,” said Arnab Basu.
The workshops take place under the guidance of the instructors. Indian Museum
“These workshops aim to empower individuals with mental disability through the power of art. It’s priceless when we manage to put smiles on their faces through our efforts,” he added.
How to participate in the workshops
Anyone can visit the Indian Museum official website and contact the authorities to participate in the sessions. Regular updates will be provided once they become part of the Soulful Silence Art Workshop community.