Eco-Friendly Ganesha Workshop: With the Ganesh Utsav right around the corner, we decided to change our age of practices of making Ganesh idol out of Plaster of Paris (PoP). Instead, making an eco-friendly idol made out of clay was a characteristic of a responsible citizen. Mr. Rakesh Vyas – the state awardee undertook the task of this workshop. He enlightened the participants with tips for making the eco-friendly Ganesh idol.
The Beginning Of The Workshop
The clay that was used to make the Ganesh idol can be be made at home or bought from local potters. Mr. Vyas introduced us to different types of soils that can be used to make clay. He also shared a few tips on how to store clay properly so it doesn’t dry quickly. The interesting part about the workshop was that there were no fancy tools required. Clay had to be molded in only two different shapes to make the eco-friendly idol of Lord Ganesha.
Mr. Vays laid the foundation of this eco-friendly idol by first making the big round belly of Ganesha and then the limbs. Participants were quite enthusiastic and innovative in their approach to making the idol. While most of them used clay, few used chalk powder and edible dough to make the idol.
Towards The End Of The Workshop
Once the lower body of the idol was put together, it was time to create the head and attach it to the lower body. Mr. Vyas was kind enough to explain the measurements and show how to give shape to the clay. After all body parts were put together, it was time to work on the detailing of the idol: highlighting the eyes and teeth and working on the skin texture and adding the jewellery.
Observing the creativity of the participants, Mr. Vyas taught us different ways of making the crown that was placed on the forehead of the idol. Once the crown was placed, the eco-friendly Ganesha idol was ready. These idols also make a perfect gifting option. Before signing off, Mr. Vyas shared a few tips on how to properly dry the idol and place it in a cool area, avoiding direct contact from sun and wind.
Rajasthan Studio as always was successful in connecting artists and curating a magical and positive vibe together. We keep organizing such creative workshops to keep everyone productive and creative.
Stay safe and stay creative! Here’s us signing off, until next time!
