‘Our Kingdom of Animals’ is a set of six picture post cards inspired with the divine animals mentioned in the scriptures of India and Thailand and created with help of poor children in Haridwar.
6 Basic Animal Groups
The six basic animal groups include amphibians, birds, fish, invertebrates, mammals, and reptiles.
We gave names to them —
6 Basic Animal Groups
The six basic animal groups include amphibians, birds, fish, invertebrates, mammals, and reptiles.
We gave names to them —
Creami the Invertebrate
Dudharu the Mammal
Gator the Reptile
Maach the Fish
Mandooc the Amphibian
Udati the Bird
Process of Creating
This project was led by Napatt Piyawongwatthana.
Step 1: Researching themes of animals
First, research was conducted on those animals that are common to the scriptures India and Thailand. This involved discussions, visiting a variety of places in Haridwar – river-sides, temples, inns, etc. and witness, and participating with the rituals happening here. Finally, 5 animals – cow, peacock, horse, man, and monkey – were agreed upon. Illustrations were made and from those about 50 cardboard blocks were made.
Step 2: Workshops with about 30 local persons.
Three workshops were conducted in Haridwar. One was held at the studio in AZIMVTH Ashram; 6 adults participated with it. The second workshop was held at a junior high school where a dozen students participated. The third workshop involved going to and staying at an orphanage, within Haridwar, that was founded by an American artist. It also saw a dozen participants.
Step3: Exhibition
The collaborative art-works numbering about 30 were displayed in a small exhibition at the premises of AZIMVTH Ashram. Participants visited that and made comparisons.
Step 4: Installation
Inspired with these over 2 dozen art-works that were co-created in Haridwar, new designs of animals were made. Blocks of these were prepared and installed.
Step 5: 6 Animals
Gaining insights with the installation and playing with light and shadow, 6 designs were finally arrived at.
AZIMVTH Ashram 