SRINAGAR AND WORLD CRAFT
CITY - ART AND CULTURE
News: Srinagar’s ‘World Craft City’
tag, allows Kashmir to re-connect globally
What's in the news?
●
Srinagar has become the fourth Indian city to be
recognised as a 'World Craft City' by the World Craft Council (WCC), three
years after it was designated as part of the UNESCO Creative City Network
(UCCN) for crafts and folk arts.
Craft Sector in Kashmir:
●
The Indian
National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage-Kashmir (INTACH-K) is working
with the J&K Handicrafts department to map Srinagar's craft sector in
preparation for the final nomination.
●
Srinagar boasts a rich artisanal heritage, with
over 20,000 registered craftsmen
engaged in various disciplines such as papier
mâché, walnut wood carving, hand-knotted carpets, and more.
●
Handicrafts contribute significantly to the local
economy, with approximately 2.64% of
J&K's overall economic output attributed to the sector by 2016-17.
Notable Craft:
●
Papier-Mache, Walnut Wood Carving, Carpets, Sozni
embroidery and Pashmina and Kani shawls.
Go back to basics:
World Craft Council (WCC
International):
●
It is a non-profit,
non-governmental organization established in 1964.
Governance:
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Registered in Belgium as an international
association without a lucrative purpose (AISBL).
●
Affiliated to UNESCO.
Founders - Kamaladevi Chattopadhay and Aileen Osborn Webb
Purpose:
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To promote fellowship among craftspersons
worldwide, foster economic development through craft-related activities,
organize exchange programs, workshops, conferences, seminars, and exhibitions,
and offer encouragement and advice to artisans.
Regions:
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WCC is organized into five regions - Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and
North America.
World Craft City (WCC)
Designation:
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It was launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International).
●
It recognizes the pivotal role local authorities,
craftspeople, and communities play in cultural, economic, and social
development worldwide.
World Craft Cities in
India:
●
Jaipur - Kundan Jadai (Gem setting), Meenakari Jewellery,
Lac-based craft, Gotta Patti Work etc.
●
Mysuru - Kinnal paintings, Sandalwood carvings, Rosewood
Inlay etc.
● Mamallapuram - Stone Carving continuing since Pallava dynasty (275 CE to 897 CE).