The Mangaluru chapter of INTACH conducted a hands-on workshop for government school students, teaching them the intricate arts of traditional mask-making and face painting inspired by Yakshagana.

  • INTACH Mangaluru organized a traditional arts workshop at Government High School, Manchi-Kolnadu.
  • Students learned mask-making using plaster of Paris and natural face painting techniques.
  • The workshop focused on connecting youth with Tulunadu's heritage, including Yakshagana and Bhoota Kola.

In a significant move to bridge the gap between modern education and traditional arts, the Mangaluru chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) recently organized a specialized workshop. Held at the Government High School, Manchi-Kolnadu in Bantwal taluk, the session focused on traditional mask-making and face painting for students across the Manchi-Kolnadu cluster.

During the event, INTACH Mangaluru convener Subhash Chandra Basu emphasized the profound responsibility of the younger generation to preserve regional cultural heritage. He noted that fostering an early interest in these traditions is vital for the survival of our historical identity. This sentiment was echoed by artist Rajendra Kedige, who highlighted how such artistic endeavors nurture creativity and personal sensitivity in developing minds.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that integrating vernacular art forms into formal school environments is a critical strategy for cultural preservation. By providing government school students—who may have limited access to specialized arts training—with these skills, organizations like INTACH are democratizing cultural education and ensuring that the legacy of Tulunadu remains vibrant and relevant in a globalized world.

The practical aspect of the workshop was led by resource persons and skilled artists. Artist Harish Kodialbail demonstrated the technical process of creating facial moulds using plaster of Paris and cloth. Around 60 students from various institutions, including Noojibailu Aided School and Monthimaru School, participated actively, working in groups to bring their artistic visions to life.

Artistic engagement at a young age transforms students from passive observers into active custodians of culture.

Complementing the mask-making, artist Reshma Shetty provided intensive training on face painting. A key highlight was the emphasis on sustainability; students were taught how to prepare vibrant shades and patterns using naturally available materials. This hands-on experience allowed students to experiment with color schemes inspired by the iconic characters of Yakshagana.

The workshop deeply explored the symbiotic relationship between mask-making and the living traditions of the region. In Tulunadu, face painting and masks are not merely decorative but are essential components of ritualistic performances like Bhoota Kola, where they serve to communicate character, identity, and spiritual meaning.

Historical Background

The art of mask-making in South India has roots that stretch back centuries, often tied to religious rituals and folk theater. In the context of Karnataka, Yakshagana serves as a grand visual spectacle where the intricate use of color and facial structure is paramount to storytelling. By teaching these techniques, the workshop preserves the technical knowledge required to sustain these ancient performance arts.

Did You Know?: Traditional mask-making often involves layers of cloth and organic binders to ensure the masks are both lightweight and durable for performers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which schools participated in this INTACH workshop?
Students from Government High School Manchi-Kolnadu, Noojibailu Aided School, Monthimaru School, Ira Primary School, and Puddottu School participated.

2. What specific art forms were covered?
The workshop covered traditional mask-making and face painting, specifically focusing on styles used in Yakshagana and Bhoota Kola.