23-01-2025
Traditional Indian Woodblock Printing Company
Drayton Manor students recently took part in an extraordinary workshop that brought the ancient art of Indian woodblock printing to life. Led by renowned artist Neerja Sehgal, this hands-on experience was not only a lesson in creativity but also a fascinating glimpse into a craft that has been cherished in India for years.
Indian Woodblock Printing involves using intricately carved wooden blocks that are dipped in dye to press patterns onto fabric or paper. Neerja Sehgal, an expert in this craft, brought her expertise and passion to Drayton Manor, giving students a unique opportunity to learn this art form first-hand.
A Creative Collaboration
The workshop wasn’t just about individual artistry—it was a collective endeavour. Students worked together, using the woodblock printing technique to create a vibrant tapestry celebrating the rich history of Drayton Manor High School. This collaborative artwork will play a starring role in the school’s 95 Year anniversary celebrations, a visual testament to the legacy and spirit of the school. “Woodblock printing is not just about replicating patterns, it is about storytelling,” Sehgal explained during the workshop. “Every block and every colour have a narrative, and the students are creating a narrative for your school.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Beyond learning a new artistic technique, students explored the rich traditions of Indian craftsmanship while fostering teamwork and creativity. Many remarked on the meditative quality of the process, finding joy in the rhythmic stamping of blocks and the gradual emergence of intricate patterns.
A Tapestry of Tradition and Innovation
The final tapestry is not just an artwork; it is a symbol of the school’s enduring legacy. Each print represents a piece of Drayton Manor’s story, blending the old with the new, much like the technique itself—a bridge between traditional artistry and modern creativity. As the school gears up for its 95 Year anniversary, this collaborative masterpiece will serve as a reminder of its history and the vibrant community that continues to shape it.
Why Do Workshops Like This Matter?
In an age where digital tools dominate the creative landscape, opportunities to engage with traditional crafts are rare, but invaluable. Workshops like these not only preserve cultural heritage but also enrich students' understanding of global art forms and inspire a deeper connection to the creative process. Drayton Manor’s partnership with Neerja Sehgal proves that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand, resulting in something truly extraordinary.
As the tapestry takes its place in the 95 Year anniversary celebrations, it will undoubtedly remind everyone at Drayton Manor that great stories are built stitch by stitch, block by block, and moment by moment.
