Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is an Indian holiday that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and truth over ignorance. During the festival, families place small oil lamps (diyas) around their home, create elaborate and colorful dot-and-line designs (kolams), light firecrackers, wear new clothes, and enjoy delicious food with family and friends.
However you celebrate, we invite you to join us in learning about Diwali, creating artwork, and enjoying the diversity of our creative community!
In this one-hour workshop, you’ll learn about the Festival of Lights and create two Diwali-inspired art projects:
- Decorate your own diya, or clay lamp, with Indian designs and patterns
- Make a kolam drawing with chalk and add your own creative spin
Ages 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone entering needs to register, even if accompanying a child.
About the Instructors
Aishwariya Chandrasekar is a visual and traditional artist – and VisArts’ Development Manager. She’s been trained in the traditional Indian art form of Kolam, with the support of Maryland State Arts Council Folklife Apprenticeship grants in 2010 and 2022, and enjoys sharing the simplicity and beauty of the art form with our community.
Shraddha Tiwari is an experimental filmmaker and storyteller – and VisArts’ Camps Co-Director. Trained as an animator, she’s conducted workshops on traditional Indian art for kids and adults, and is eager to uplift traditional art forms while sharing her creativity and experience.