Where there is art there is life: Theja Meru

April 16, 2023 41 Views No Comment

Correspondent
Kohima | April 16

Nagaland today observed World Art Day under the theme ‘Art Education.’ In the state’s capital Kohima, Artists of Nagaland (AoN), Coraggio School, Model Higher Secondary School and Modern Higher Secondary School Kohima jointly observed the day at Coraggio School Kohima. It was powered by Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA).

“Where there is art there is life,” said TaFMA Chairman, Theja Meru while gracing the occasion.

It is art that bring its colors. Art touch our home, education and life, it makes life exciting, it makes joy to both young and old, he added.

Meru also maintained that the power of art takes anything and creates beautiful things.

Art brings life, colors and records history, he added.

Yano from Coraggio School, Kiimtsiimong Limkhiungkhiiingrii from Modern Higher Secondary School and Esther from Coraggio School bagged 1st, 2nd and 3rd position respectively in drawing competition.

TaFMA sponsored prize for winners of drawing competition.

TaFMA project director Dr.Hovithal Sothu alongwith other TaFMA officials also present at the programme.

‘Allow art education as important subject’
Cynthia Kolakhe, art & drama educator and founder of Artists of Nagaland encouraged every school to allow art education as one of the important subjects.

She said that World Art Day is an occasion to shine and provide Art in modern education to various students, with a creative outlet that can improve their problem solving skills.

“They learnt how to think outside the box and explore topics in an unconventional way,” she said.

Some of the topics are often difficult to teach in the classroom, such as emotions, time and space. These types of concepts are easier to understand when paired with art, she maintained.

“Just like mathematics or science, art requires regular practice to stimulate creativity, inspire confidence, knowledge and foster personal growth. This also helps students to boost academic performance, more concentration in the classroom, increases capacity for leadership and enable them to work as a team in the classroom or even when with the family,” Kolakhe said.

Art is a driving force for innovation
Annie Konthoujam, headmistress, Coraggio School maintained that World Art Day is a day to promote the development, proliferation, and appreciation for art!

“Art is a driving force for innovation. It nurtures creativity and is a powerful tool for shedding light on cultural hegemony,” she said.

We have learned to appreciate art for both its visual aesthetic and its power to influence society, Konthoujam said adding “In essence, art is at the very heart of everything we do—from how we prepare a meal and decorate the house, to how we express ourselves when we dress and speak.”

Today, she said, art enthusiasts, have come together to honor and appreciate the beauty, diversity, and power of art in all its forms.

“Art has the ability to transcend boundaries, captivate our hearts and minds, and inspire us in ways that words alone cannot describe. Art is a universal language that speaks to the soul and reflects the human experience. It is a medium through which artists communicate their thoughts, emotions, and perspectives, and it allows us as viewers and appreciators to connect with their visions and interpretations of the world around us,” Konthoujam said.