The INDIA HABITAT CENTRE was conceived to provide a physical environment which would serve as a catalyst for a synergetic relationship between individuals and institutions working in diverse habitat-related areas and therefore, maximise their total effectiveness.
Deciding to be an artist is in itself an act of immense courage. The artist occupies nearly the bottom rung of the utility of professionals as perceived in society, often viewed by non-artists with a mixture of curiosity and condescension. It is common knowledge that it is challenging to make a living as an artist. In this context, the paper art practitioner is a brave person of an altogether different pedigree. While canvas, stone, metal, wood, glass, ceramic and even plastic feel like they have inherent monetary value, paper as a material is perceived to be the most worthless in intrinsic value. Doubts are brought on its longevity, aspersions are cast on its fragility and ease of destructibility.
It then falls on the daring, dexterity and dreams of the paper practitioner to transform this ‘something of nearly no value’ into something of ‘immense value’.
This is the audacity of the paper-shaper, and the India Paper Triennial seeks to be equally audacious in creating a platform in India where these adventures in paper and of the paper artist, designer, crafter, architect and engineer : are all celebrated with aplomb and given the arc-lights that they truly deserve.
