IIT Kanpur Hosts Terracotta Pottery Workshop For Skilling Local Artisans
The Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra (RSK) at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) is currently hosting a terracotta pottery workshop for potters from Kanpur Nagar and Kanpur Dehat, which runs from January 6-11, 2025. The workshop features 25 participants from Bithoor, Baikunthpur, Mandhana, and Pachaurh of Kanpur Nagar, as well as Sarvankhera and Pukhrayan of Kanpur Dehat.
Terracotta is a type of clay-based ceramic known for its porous, reddish-brown appearance. It is crafted by shaping and firing clay at around 1000 degrees. Terracota’s natural composition allows it to absorb moisture, making it ideal for storing and cooking food. Terracotta finds its roots in ancient civilisations dating back to atleast 3000 BCE, in regions like Mesopotamia, ancient Greece and Indus Valley.
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The workshop is being led by Prof. Manoj Prajapati, a distinguished expert in terracotta pottery and sculpting from Sriniketan Vishva Bharti University, Kolkata. A native of Kanpur, Prof. Prajapati is guiding participants through advanced techniques such as slabbing and coiling, alongside practical methods for constructing low-cost, efficient furnaces for firing pottery. The sessions also cover modern glazing processes aimed at enhancing the quality and market appeal of the products, enabling potters to better align their craft with evolving consumer preferences.
Mrs. Rita Singh, coordinator of activities at RSK, remarked, “The center is connected to over 100 potters in Kanpur with the goal of placing the city on the pottery map of the state. This workshop aims to introduce new design thinking and improved processes that will help the potters create products that are more attractive to consumers.”
During the inauguration, Prof. Sandeep Sangal, Principal Investigator of RSK, encouraged the potters to make the most of this learning opportunity and integrate modern techniques into their traditional practices. Prof. Kallol Mondal from IIT Kanpur highlighted the importance of applying the knowledge gained in the workshop to enhance their craft, while Prof. Shailly, a ceramic expert at IIT Kanpur, provided insights into the workshop’s curriculum.
Throughout the workshop, Prof. Prajapati will be guiding participants in exploring various pottery techniques and materials, including hands-on sessions to create items on the wheel tailored to their individual skill levels. Prof. Prajapati’s enthusiasm and encouragement motivated the artisans, assuring them that the new techniques are not only easy to adopt but also beneficial in elevating the quality and market appeal of their craft.
This initiative by the Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra aims to bridge the gap between traditional artistry and modern market demands. By nurturing skill development and innovation, it ensures a sustainable future for Kanpur’s rich pottery heritage while empowering potters to thrive in the evolving marketplace.
