IIP's Kausani Artist Residency Camp

Soulful Exploration of Bharat Through the Lens of Kumaun

Introduction

Nestled in the serene embrace of the Himalayas, Kausani, Uttarakhand, is a land where the mountains converse with the skies, and every whisper of the wind carries the stories of a rich and ancient past. It is in this magical landscape that the Indian Institute of Photography (IIP) envisions the “Kausani Artist Residency Camp” — an immersive journey into the heart of Bharat, through the vibrant lens of Kumaun.

Date : 13^th to 17^th Nov. 2024

Place : IIP Institute of Cultural and Creative Arts, The Buransh, Kausani, Uttarakhand

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Kausani Artist Residency Camp

Purpose: The IIP’s Kausani Artist Residency Camp is not just an event, it is a confluence of creativity, where the rich tapestry of India’s art, culture, history, and philosophy is explored, celebrated, and reimagined. This camp invites painters, sculptors, photographers, filmmakers, chefs, historians, culturists, and artists from various disciplines to delve into the soul of Kumaun, a region steeped in history and brimming with cultural heritage.

Vision: In a world that often races forward, forgetting the treasures of the past, the Kausani Artist Residency Camp seeks to pause and reflect. It aims to reconnect contemporary creators with the timeless essence of Bharat, encouraging them to draw inspiration from the untouched beauty, the folklore, the ancient traditions, and the spiritual depth of Kumaun. The camp is a call to artists to create with a purpose, to understand and portray the intricate connection between nature, culture, and human existence.

Outcome: Participants will leave the camp not only with their own artistic contributions but also with a deep connection to the region, enriched by the stories, traditions, and philosophies that define Kumaun. The work created during this residency will be a testament to the enduring spirit of Bharat, as seen through the eyes of its artists.

Conclusion: The IIP’s Kausani Artist Residency Camp is an invitation to become part of a soulful exploration, to unearth the layers of history, culture, and art that define Kumaun and, by extension, Bharat. It is a call to the creative spirits who seek meaning in their work, to join us in this journey of discovery, creation, and celebration of the rich cultural heritage that our land offers.

Program Outline

Artistic Exploration: Daily sessions where artists can work on their projects, inspired by the local environment, with the opportunity to collaborate across disciplines.

Cultural Immersion: Interactive sessions with local historians and culturists to explore Kumauni traditions, rituals, and folklore, enhancing the contextual understanding of the region.

Philosophical Dialogues: Evening discussions led by scholars, exploring the philosophical and spiritual underpinnings of Indian culture, with a focus on how these ideas manifest in the art and lifestyle of the Kumaun region.

Culinary Experience: A unique opportunity for chefs to explore and reinterpret Kumauni cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques, offering participants a taste of the region's heritage.

Exhibition & Showcase: The residency will culminate in a showcase where participants present their creations, reflecting their journey through Kumaun, contributing to the collective narrative of the region.