Saugat Shrestha (Ceramic Trainer)
Over the past 8 days at UCV, there has been many transformative things in ceramic techniques, specifically in matte glazing and mold making. Moving from basic surface preparation to the exploration of unique, soft-finished matte glazes. Through hands-on sessions, we taught how to mix and test different glaze recipes, understanding how slight changes in material and firing atmosphere affect the final surface. Simultaneously, we delved into mold making from crafting simple one-part molds to more complex multi-part forms. We were able to produce functional molds that will serve in creating consistent and intricate ceramic pieces. The study of these techniques not only expanded their technical skills but also opened creative pathways for future work.
Suprina Manandhar (Ceramic Student, Kathmandu University)
The practical section of the program covered everyting from the very basic trechniques to preparing glazes, which was very informative. These activities being practical made it easier to comprehend and note. The workshop was very resourceful and fulfilling. It was able to cover so much in detail and left me with a new motication to experiment with ceramics. In addition to that, the program provided valuable insights into ceramics from an industrial perspective, which I found particularly enlightening
Janaki Pradhan (Trainer of Incense, Soap and Candle-making)
The session provided me with a complete and fulfilling experience of enthusiastic attendees, with a blend of cultural and natural surroundings, motivating influences, and satisfactory outcomes. The participants were eager to acquire knowledge about various training methods for making Dhoop, candles, and soap using local and natural resources. They quickly grasped the concepts, remained motivated, and actively engaged throughout the session and stayed overtime to learn and better outcomes of the product. The participants are now equipped to pursue entrepreneurial ventures in dhoop, soap, and candle making, incorporating different ingredients, flavored elements, quality control, and essential measurements.
Elina (Ceramic Artist)
The experience of the symposium is multi-layered and full of impressions. Working in a cultural village is a rich experience that is permeated by getting to know nature, traditions, culture, sound, and taste. The peaceful beauty of Unnati Cultural Village is like an oasis for creativity. The authenticity of the local village, the kindness of the people, and the beauty of nature are values that inspire. The creative work process and the result are the interaction and result of experience. When getting to know the locals and gaining daily experience, the clay sculptures transform and change during the process. The created group sculptures, TERRACOTTA, so well belong to the garden landscape because they include the context of place and time.
Vanita Gupta (Visual Artist)
The last few days at Unnati Cultural Village have been incredibly inspiring. It is a wonderful center that gives artists the space and freedom to think beyond and stimulate creativity. I am deeply grateful for the time I spent here. The staff, from Chef Pandeyji to Sarovar and Ashish, were exceptionally warm and helpful. A special thanks to Roshanaji for ensuring all our needs were met and to Lojala and Sujal for accompanying us from Kathmandu and making us feel so welcome. Heartfelt thanks to Manish Pushkale and the entire Unnati team!
Akhilesh Verma (Visual Artist)
Unnati Cultural Village is a sanctuary where any artist can find the inspiration to create and imagine new possibilities. I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed in its lush, green surroundings. Lots of love to the team for making this experience so memorable.
Bibhakar S. Shakya, Ph.D., Senior Economist, Richmond, Virginia, USA
Upon arriving at the Village, we felt a genuine sense of serenity, and it is a perfect place for creative minds, especially those who enjoy nature. We should have more places like UCV all over Nepal so that people can appreciate and enjoy our country’s rich cultural diversity and heritage. UCV, with its noble mission of preserving, promoting, and developing rural ethnic and cultural heritage, can be an inspiration for other beautiful and deserving villages of Nepal.
Sundar Kumari Chaudhary
I am incredibly grateful to UNNATI for the opportunities they have provided me. The skills I have learned in pottery have not only empowered me economically but have also given me a sense of independence and pride in my work.”
Saurav Thapa Shrestha Lifestyle Photographer
My experience working with Unnati during the Art Residency in the Chitwan region was incredible. We were able to immerse ourselves in the community and capture their lifestyle and emotions. The facilitation provided by Unnati Cultural Village was beautiful, and their hospitality was authentic and peerless. This experience has helped me realize the importance of documenting and conserving the community, which Unnati promotes through various means to keep it alive
Tanmoy Samanta
Unnati has bridged the gap between Nepali artists and artisans and artists from outside Nepal. This is indeed a significant step forward towards fostering the creative and cultural economy of Nepal. Unnati has already marked its presence with its various initiatives, and I am sure it can play an important role in placing Nepal on the global cultural map more prominently.
