Final exhibition

Shenhou County, Yuzhou, Henan

A study of an ancient kiln site in Shenhou, Henan

Except for the teaching and administrative part of my job in this fellowship, all communication between me and the residents is becoming my largest gaining in my practice. I enjoy this kind of old-fashioned way chats with the neighborhood on the street, purposelessly. Some of them take a walk after eating dinner, and some of them cool off under trees in this little county. Everything goes slowly and peacefully, while everyone slows down their steps. After talking with some local parents and elementary students, I found the absence of professional art education. The Chinese government has implemented nine years of compulsory education. Still, art classes in actual schools have often been overlooked or crowded out by other subjects such as math and literature. Even though traditional Jun ceramics surrounds people, most of them have no recognition of generic ceramic arts or the arts. To the public, Jun ceramics have become an iconic symbol in the historical culture. Nevertheless, one of the essential distinctions between parents in Henan and Yunnan is that they were more than willing to send their children to participate in the non-profit program. Some parents in Henan are even more than welcome to invest in their children’s education. They were aware of the demand for art education in rural areas. So the advertising and enrollment of local students have been very smooth and successful, and some parents are fully supportive of our public education organization. However, most of the parents in Yunnan just considered us as babysitters for their children’s summer vacation.

Multiple layers of feldspar, iron oxide, and clay are deposited underground.

Study of local clay and materials with Qi Huisuo

Qi Huisuo’s personal studio

The conversation with Mr. Qi remains in my mind. I enjoyed talking with Mr. Qi the most. Qi Huisuo works as the main designer for the Song Dynasty royal kiln though, his job as designing for mass production ceramics never limited his vision.

In China, especially in Chinese rural areas, there is a large number of people like Qi Huisuo. They never identify themselves as a contemporary artist, but what they are creating and sustaining is true honesty and art. Not like most traditional Chinese ceramicists, Qi is generous, open-minded, knowable, and welcoming. He would love to share the ceramic knowledge that he researched for years. Working as a designer for a mass-productive industry isn’t as fun and cool as it looks. The pre-research and study of local clay and stones is a much time-consumable phase in the ceramic industry. He took a big responsibility of qualifying all designs for all blowing mass production. 

Conceptual thinking and creative art education are essential absences in their elementary school, especially speaking to Shenhou County, after my street interview with the residents. Most of the children and families I accessed in Shenhou are much more educated, urbanized, and open-minded, especially compared with the situation we met in Yunnan. They have relatively rich art materials, convenient transportation, and favorable life conditions. Surprisingly, parents in Shenhou value the importance of kids’ education, and invest the most in this aspect, especially compared to the situation in Yunan. However, the lack of support for arts in elementary education proves that unequal development and resources of arts are common in the countryside.

To the ten-day workshop, I have committed with designer Qi Huisuo about the main concept of our teaching for these children — creative thinking.

The first art lecture

The parallel creative writing workshop took place every afternoon.

In pursuit of answers, we’ve embarked on a bold experiment, and education serves as the simplest and most direct experimental process. With the generous support of the largest porcelain factory in Shenzhou, the Da Song Kiln, and the Maharam Fund, we organized a summer ceramics camp focused on ‘contemporary art.’ This art workshop involved 30 local schoolchildren selected from the public. In this camp, we deconstructed the concept of ‘contemporary art’ and dismantled all preconceived notions about Jun porcelain. The result was an array of whimsical creations from a fully-charged kiln. For ten days, there were no rules, no requirements, and no homework. We not only supported the students with a studio art class but also invited a literature volunteer to guide the kids in writing statements and poems. In the first lecture, I introduced some contemporary performance artists who would have utilized the interaction between their bodies and clay to present their ideas, like my professor Nicholas Oh, and RISD alumni Nayoung Jeong. In addition, I also displayed some famous post-modernism and abstract painters, like Keifer, and Hilma af Klint. It is pretty brave and radical to discuss contemporary arts with these 10-year-old children in ritual. Out of expectation, the class was very communicative, enthusiastic, and inspiring. Most children are interested in abstract art with thoughtful patterns, colors and constructions. Kids’ active replies and exploration of those conceptual works also evoked my imagination about the abstract arts, which is way beyond the knowledge I learned from art history. Some kids’ parents audited our lecture and then they participated in the discussion naturally.

Meanwhile, the tug-of-war with the kids is exhausting. To be honest, the 10-day process of the workshop is also a big challenge for these little kids. Whether we can categorize these brief, heartfelt children’s creations as art is uncertain, but they unquestionably glowed with the radiant light of childlike innocence and sincerity. Like a charming, nonsensical melody or a handful of poetic verses, they encapsulated the pure essence of childhood and pointed to the innate artistry within us all.

The Crazy Ball Adventure! – Aanya Arora, BArch 24

The Crazy Ball Adventure!

Friday 1st September

Throughout this week, the toy project has truly blossomed. Each day, it transformed into something new as various groups of students put their unique spin on it, experimenting with diverse combinations of the mechanisms we’ve crafted. The children have been in a constant state of refinement, figuring out how to fashion additional mechanisms from the materials readily available and generating remarkably inventive concepts. One young boy ingeniously devised a curving trajectory for the ball employing only wooden dowels and rubber bands. He meticulously engineered a method to balance the dowels within the board’s holes, harnessing the rubber bands’ elasticity to create a stable path. Meanwhile, another child independently conceived a mechanism that employed water, plastic syringes, and discarded materials to generate motion, resembling the functionality of a crane. He introduced this innovation to the workshop and enlisted the assistance of fellow students in designing how it could be integrated into the initial stages of the ball’s journey. The field officers expressed their surprise at discovering this young innovator’s creative side, and they were delighted that these workshops provided a platform for his inventive and imaginative ideas to shine.

Through a fruitful collaboration with the same local steel product manufacturer responsible for crafting the stand, we managed to procure pegs of precisely the right size—3 inches, to be precise! These pegs proved versatile, capable of securely supporting a wide range of items, from PVC pipes to the Ferris wheel. As the children embarked on crafting a ball path using these newly acquired pegs, it was truly inspiring to witness how they challenged the conventional usage, deftly manipulating the angle and positioning of the pegs to accommodate various objects. Additionally, their newfound efficiency was remarkable; they constructed the path almost as swiftly as they conceived it in their imaginative minds.

Crazy Ball Adventure

During the construction of one of the iterations of our ball runs, the ball unexpectedly tumbled out of one of the pipes, embarking on a spontaneous adventure, rolling onto the neighborhood streets. Amidst the laughter that ensued, one of the children exclaimed, “Crazy Ball!” – a name that instantly resonated with everyone. Consequently, we decided to christen our creation ‘The Crazy Ball Adventure’ Toy. The field officers and the manager of the No Child In Trash Program were thoroughly thrilled with the evolution of this toy and recognized its potential for use across Chintan’s various centers in New Delhi. To facilitate its broader adoption, they’ve tasked me with designing a guide that can introduce new children to its usage and highlight its potential as a valuable learning tool. I’ve already initiated some sketches for this guide and am committed to completing it within the next few weeks.

In the past week, I conducted two plastic crocheting workshops, where I had the opportunity to teach waste-picker women the art of transforming plastic bags into useful products through crocheting. Each participant crafted a small sample, roughly the size of a fist, during which they learned the fundamentals of crocheting, including how to begin, execute chain stitches, build upon layers, and explore various crochet techniques. We ventured into experimenting with different plastic bag thicknesses and made an interesting discovery: thicker plastics allowed us to create surfaces more quickly and were easier to work with due to their visible holes and knots. Conversely, the thinner plastic bags, typically used for fruits and vegetables, presented a slipperier challenge, especially for beginners. However, experienced crocheters among the women managed to craft sizable pieces from these bags. Many of the participants had some prior experience with crocheting but hadn’t practiced it in a while, so they were delighted to rekindle their skills through these workshops and now have the tools to create something beautiful. 

We also explored the potential of using various materials, such as old clothes, yarn, or even natural elements, in crocheting. One woman shared her grandmother’s tradition of crafting grass baskets through crocheting, highlighting the versatility of natural materials. These baskets, once dried, become tight and incredibly strong, serving multiple household purposes while remaining biodegradable—a wonderful example of harnessing and transforming natural resources into marketable, eco-friendly products.

In addition to the workshops, I successfully finalized the plastic crocheting manual. This comprehensive guide encompasses a wide array of potential products the women can create, detailing the necessary materials, step-by-step instructions on commencing crochet projects, proper crochet hook handling techniques, and an exploration of various crochet styles.

These past few weeks have been incredibly thrilling as I’ve had the opportunity to introduce the children to the world of design. Witnessing their creative thinking and their willingness to challenge their usual thought processes has been truly inspiring. Moreover, the collaborative efforts they put forth to develop innovative designs together have left a lasting impression. As my Maharam fellowship at Chintan comes to a close, it’s astonishing how time has flown by. I find it hard to believe that it’s time to bid farewell, and while I’ll miss this experience, I’m eagerly anticipating the future, where I hope to see the toy project continue to evolve and ignite inspiration in countless other children.

Connecting the Dots: Materials and Assembly – Aanya Arora, BArch 24

Sunday 20th August 2023

Connecting the Dots: Materials and Assembly

The exciting journey towards finalizing the toy design has officially begun! After studying the various components envisioned by children during our last workshop, I embarked on the task of acquiring materials that would facilitate diverse ball motions in our marble run. Among the materials I have procured are PVC pipes, a round pipe, large and small joints, wooden dowels, as well as assorted pieces of wood in varying sizes. These elements form the building blocks of our innovative ball run, and I am eager to see how the children will come together to create a captivating and interactive toy design.

6 Different Mechanisms

With a comprehensive understanding of the available materials and insights from the prototypes crafted by the children in the previous workshop, I conceptualized six distinct mechanisms for guiding the ball through our marble run: a car, a Ferris wheel, a hammer, a thread-based contraption, a lift, and a seesaw. The children were organized into six groups, each tasked with drawing out a design that incorporated one of these mechanisms, followed by group discussions to refine their concepts and select the most promising idea to pursue. And then, the magic began as they delved into the construction process, employing cardboard, dowels, wooden ice-lolly sticks, and various discarded materials to bring their visions to life. The level of creativity and innovation on display was truly remarkable, with some groups devising mechanisms to adjust the ball’s trajectory through string manipulation, while others crafted a dual Ferris wheel with two distinct entry points, showcasing the children’s extraordinary ability to think beyond what the task asked them.

Foundational Structure

During the workshop, a valuable insight emerged: the children required a foundational structure on which to construct their ball runs effectively. In response, I conceived a versatile, disassemblable stand featuring a grid of perforated holes. This design allowed for easy attachment and reconfiguration of various components within the ball run. Collaborating with a local steel product manufacturer, we brainstormed ways to optimize the design, reducing material usage and overall costs while ensuring its disassemblability. Our solution was a single-sheet central structure that could be utilized from both sides, enabling two separate groups of children to simultaneously build their ball runs, ultimately fostering friendly competition as they vied to create the longest and most imaginative designs.

Measure, Cut, and Sand

The next phase of our ball run adventure saw us diving headfirst into the creation of the permanent ball run! I introduced the children to the world of PVC pipes and posed the question of how to cut them to allow visibility of the ball while crafting those thrilling zig-zag paths, a recurring feature in their marble run prototypes. The room buzzed with anticipation as I guided them through the process: measure, cut, and sand! There was palpable excitement as I demonstrated the use of a cutting saw to trim the PVC pipes into smaller sections and then meticulously smooth the edges with sandpaper. To address the challenge of connecting two pipes at a corner while maintaining ball visibility, we collectively decided on a clever solution: slicing a pipe horizontally and leaving two inches of the full pipe on one side, ensuring it could be securely affixed into a connector piece.

Peg Design Testing

As we delved into the design of pegs for affixing various mechanisms to the perforated board, a collaborative brainstorming session ensued. Our initial approach involved crafting 3-inch-long wooden dowels, designed to fit snugly into the board by carefully chiseling them down to a size just slightly smaller than the hole width. We tested this configuration with four pieces to support a pipe, but it lacked the necessary lateral stability to keep the pipe securely in place. Subsequently, we explored the addition of smaller vertical pieces at the ends of the dowels to enhance support, yet this approach occasionally resulted in unwanted rotation. Another avenue we explored was metal pegs, commonly used in commercial stores for hanging products on shelves. However, the sizes we tested proved either too small or significantly larger than the pipe’s width. Currently, our quest is focused on sourcing pegs with dimensions that are just right for our unique needs.

Assemblage Iteration

I split the students into two groups, each focused on distinct aspects of our marble run project. While one group diligently constructed various components, the other group embarked on testing different assembly methods. For the time being, we opted for the simplicity of tape to connect the different mechanisms to the stand, facilitating swift experimentation. As I observed their progress, it became evident that employing standardized pieces streamlined the construction process, enabling them to build intricate runs with remarkable speed. This dynamic exploration also led to insights into how the ball’s velocity could vary at different stages of the run. Moreover, they quickly discovered ways to maximize their available resources by introducing breaks in the path, relying on the ball’s own momentum to bridge these gaps. The children’s enthusiasm soared as they contemplated the prospect of two distinct entry points for the ball, igniting a spirited race to determine which route would allow the ball to reach the end first.

Upcycling Workshop

In a recent meeting with the Voice of Waste team, I introduced the concept of a plastic crocheting workshop, and I was delighted to find that they were receptive to the idea. They appreciated how this skill could empower participants to craft a diverse range of products while demanding minimal equipment. As a result, they have tasked me with creating a comprehensive workshop manual that provides a step-by-step guide to the crocheting process. In designing this manual, I’ve been exploring ways to convey the intricacies of crocheting through visual graphics, aiming to minimize reliance on textual instructions since several of the women involved may not be proficient in either Hindi or English.

From Concept to Creation: Diving into the World of Toy Design – Aanya Arora, BArch 24

Sunday 13th August 2023

From Concept to Creation: Diving into the World of Toy Design

Recently, we embarked on an exciting journey of designing our own marble runs, delving into the realms of energy, matter, and creativity. The process began with a thoughtful discussion on energy and matter. Students explored the various forms of energy, from potential and kinetic to the fascinating world of chain reactions. This laid the foundation for their marble run designs, as they contemplated ways to harness and manipulate these energies to create a captivating marble run.

Guiding the students through the creative process, I showcased the versatility of cardboard as a construction material. Techniques such as scoring to create cones, developing slot systems, utilizing the flange technique, and even binding two pieces with string or rubber bands were demonstrated on a board. This hands-on demonstration sparked the students’ imagination, inspiring them to combine these techniques in innovative ways.

As the students set out to design their marble runs, the classroom was abuzz with creative energy. One student, overwhelmed by the challenge, said to me “Mein nahi banapaogha” which means ‘I won’t be able to make this’. I encouraged to focus on the base structure first and he slowly began to change his outlook. Recognizing the need for vertical space, he taped his cardboard piece into position on the shelf and began building. What followed was a cascade of creativity – a testament to the power of persistence and innovative thinking. Drawing inspiration from the recent car design workshop, he even envisioned an extension of the marble run into a miniature car that could transport the marble to new destinations. This interplay of concepts showcased the interconnectedness of various disciplines and the multifaceted thinking nurtured through such projects.

As the marble runs took shape, it was time to put them to the test. We timed each groups creations, with the students eager to see how long their marble could journey through the intricacies of their design. Times varied from a swift 00.58 seconds to a more leisurely 2.20 seconds, considering the constraints of limited space and cardboard resources.Students talked about their creations, explaining their design choices and recounting the lessons learned during testing. We even did a critique (similar to the ones but not as cut-throat!), encouraging students to appreciate each other’s work and identify areas for improvement. The recurring feedback included widening spaces for the marble, reducing the use of tape, incorporating protective barriers to prevent marble escapes, and introducing more zig-zag segments to prolong the marble’s journey. Students were enthusiastic about redoing their designs with the feedback to see if they can make the marble run for a longer period of time. 

Upcycling Workshop: Transforming Waste into Artistry 

In order to get a better understanding of the materials available and the lifestyle of the wastepicker women which I will be conducting the workshop for I visited the Vivekanand camp. At this camp, Chintan has a 3-year program in motion orchestrating positive changes within this community while addressing waste management challenges. Nestled in the heart of Chanakyapuri, amidst the presence of embassies and schools known as ‘bulk generators’ of waste, the camp houses approximately 85 families. The husbands navigate the neighborhood on their rickshaws, diligently collecting discarded materials. Upon their return to the camp, a designated space – either within the camp or right outside their homes – becomes a hub of activity. At the camp the remarkable wastepicker women commence their meticulous sorting process. Each piece is carefully evaluated and categorized based on its quality, a pivotal step in preparing the items for sale to the kabadiwala (a local term for waste buyers). 

There are 4 main categories of waste – paper, plastic, glass and metal. I watched as they categorized paper into three distinct groups: pristine white paper, worn/dirty out paper, and full newspaper. The white paper garnered the highest profit among the three categories. Metal pieces, too, underwent a fascinating transformation. Through a series of skillful hammer blows, these pieces were reshaped into forms more suitable for recycling. This hands-on process culminated in the sorting of metal into two essential categories: aluminum and general metal. I also saw how plastics were organized into different categories depending on their form. For example, they had an entire trash bag filled with Bisleri Mineral Water (local water brand) plastic wrapping, which is used to wrap several water bottles together. I collected samples of different materials such as plastic wrapping, thick plastic packets which are used to transport milk and large plastic bottles. I have been experimenting and prototyping ways that these discarded objects can be transformed into surface materials which can be used to construct different objects. 

This visit unveiled how within these discarded materials lies the potential for transformation. The wastepicker women of Vivekanand camp are not just sorting waste – they’re driving change, embracing upcycling practices, and demonstrating the power of collective efforts in shaping a greener world. I am looking forward to putting together this upcycling workshop for them to assist them in harnessing their artistry skills to transform the waste into sellable objects to improve their livelihood. 

Small Hands, Big Ideas! – Aanya Arora, BArch 24

Monday 7th August 2023

Small Hands, Big Ideas!

I have been witnessing the unbridled creativity and boundless imagination of children. Over the past weeks, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to observe them as they approach various design challenges, their ideas soaring far beyond conventional expectations. These young minds possess an innate ability to envision possibilities that often astound us, proving that innovation knows no age limits.

Empowering Students Through Innovative Design Workshops

The enthusiasm and energy radiating from these students during the design workshops have been nothing short of inspiring. It’s clear that they possess a treasure trove of remarkable ideas, waiting to be harnessed. As I guided them through activities such as designing a protective holder for a water balloon, constructing a boat capable of carrying numerous Jenga blocks, and crafting a lightweight car, I witnessed their natural inclination to push the boundaries of their imagination.

Students set out to create a boat capable of holding as many Jenga blocks as possible. Through iterative design, they grappled with concepts of stability, shape, and material properties. This hands-on experience reinforced the invaluable lesson of continuous improvement and they quickly realized that innovation is a process, involving testing, redesigning, and fine-tuning to achieve the desired outcome. I created a supplies market which featured an assortment of materials including wooden lollipop sticks, balloons, straws, cups, string, and rubber bands. The catch? Each student could only choose four items. This approach not only taught resourcefulness but also established creative boundaries, prompting the young designers to think innovatively within limitations. I observed that with access to diverse materials, their creative thinking expanded exponentially. 

Interestingly, one student stood out for his unique approach. Overcoming a visual impairment, he delved beyond conventional notions of buoyancy. He crafted a steering mechanism using only balloons, wooden sticks, and rubber bands. This ingenious contraption allowed the boat to maneuver in various directions based on the tilt of the stick. His innovation showcased how diverse perspectives can lead to breakthrough solutions. 

I discovered that the car workshop appeared overly straightforward for the students, given that the car’s structure is already pre-established. As a result, their vehicles exhibited striking resemblances, reflecting a reduced emphasis on creative ideation regarding the forms. Other workshops like the water balloon holder and the boat allowed them to think more creatively as there isn’t a predetermined expected form. 

Upcycling Workshop: Transforming Waste into Artistry 

Shifting gears from young minds to the waste-picker women community, I embarked on an upcycling workshop. Armed with a vision of transforming everyday waste into useful and aesthetically pleasing objects, I explored innovative ways to repurpose materials. One such endeavor involved weaving plastic milk bags to create functional items. Additionally, I experimented with turning plastic wrappers and bags into crochet-ready materials.Central to this workshop was the idea of empowering these women to turn waste into usable surfaces. The goal was to enable them to craft items such as tote bags, wallets, boxes, and even textiles for furniture. By providing them the tools to create sellable products aligned with their interests, the workshop aimed to offer them a new sense of agency and income potential.A pivotal meeting with the Voice to Waste team solidified the workshop’s potential impact. The idea of teaching these women how to transform waste into unique surfaces resonated strongly, as it aligned with their mission of sustainability and empowerment.

Nurturing Innovation, One Idea at a Time

The children’s boundless ideas are testaments to the power of creativity when guided with care and intention. By providing the space, tools, and encouragement needed to innovate, we were able unlock solutions that transcend expectations and make lasting positive impacts on individuals and communities alike. After all, it’s in the smallest of hands that the biggest ideas often flourish.

Power of the Waste Pickers and the Inventive Skills of the Children – Aanya Arora, BArch 24

Sunday 30th July 2023

Power of the waste pickers and inventive skills of the children

What an exhilarating first week it has been at Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group! From delving into the impactful programs to witnessing the extraordinary accomplishments, I am utterly amazed by the positive changes they bring to waste pickers, students, and the entire community!
The best part was diving right into action, kickstarting workshops with the children as part of the thrilling No Child in Trash program. The sheer joy and enthusiasm of the young minds were infectious, and I could feel the transformative power of education. I had the privilege of joining a training session for Scavengers to Managers where 20 determined women waste pickers harnessed their leadership skills in the mission to create a cleaner and greener future.

The 3 main programs which Chintan runs –

Scavengers to Managers – Turning Waste Pickers into Leaders:

Chintan’s Scavengers to Managers program focuses on transforming waste pickers into community leaders who actively contribute to waste management efforts. In the area of Belasva, 20 waste pickers have been identified as driven individuals with a passion for resolving their community’s waste-related challenges. These women receive formal training and workshops weekly, equipping them with valuable knowledge about current  topics which they then share within their communities. The waste pickers operate two waste management facilities, where they segregate waste and partner with bulk generators like hotels, schools, and malls to collect waste efficiently. The management have created partnerships with bulk generators (e.g. hotels, schools and malls) and have a ‘Pick My Trash’ vehicle which goes door to door to collect waste. A noteworthy initiative launched in 2023 involved upgrading the cycle rickshaws used for waste collection. The waste pickers now have color-coded boxes on their cycle rickshaws to separate recyclable waste from compost, ensuring proper segregation as they collect.

Voice of Waste – Advocating for Climate Change:

Under the Voice of Waste program, Chintan advocates for climate change awareness and action. They engage with waste pickers to provide them with social security numbers and educate them about their legal rights, negotiation skills, and reporting procedures. Furthermore, training sessions on heat waves and air pollution are conducted to equip them with the knowledge needed to tackle environmental challenges. Chintan has also taken a proactive approach to involve the youth in climate change initiatives. They have established climate change youth clubs across New Delhi, aiming to introduce students to the importance of environmental preservation. Some interventions which they spearheaded are the cool roof project where they painted 100 roofs with reflective white paint to reduce the temperatures and sea balance partnerships where they used aluminum foil to reduce the heat indoors and have temperature regulations meters so they can track heat levels indoors.

No Child in Trash – Nurturing Young Minds:

The No Child in Trash program is dedicated to empowering children through life skills and educational activities. Chintan works with 1400 first-generation students from all over Delhi, with a focus on promoting education, especially for girls. The teachers at these centers are from the communities itself, allowing the children to create stronger bonds with their teachers and be more likely to learn. This is the program that I have mostly been working with and have started the workshops with the children this week.

The 2 workshops I conducted were ‘Design Your Own Superhero’ and ‘Bridge Building’.

1. Design Your Own Superhero

I challenged the kids to unleash their imagination and create their very own superheroes. Many of them found it tricky to think of different superpowers but after individual discussions with the children I was able to ask them questions which made them consider other possibilities and think about how their superhero could ignite this power. Some notable examples were – ladybug woman, waterman, beauty queen and colorful man.

2. Bridge Building & Testing

The second workshop was a great success! Armed with ice-lollipop sticks and tape, our teams set out to construct sturdy bridges that could withstand the weight of books. The challenge was exhilarating, and the atmosphere crackled with enthusiasm as they embraced the role of young architects and engineers.
To kick things up a notch, we watched awe-inspiring videos of bridges from around the world, showcasing their grandeur and resilience. The kids were spellbound by the magnificent structures and were eager to put their newfound knowledge into practice.
But as with any daring endeavor, challenges arose. The kids grappled with the idea of building complete bridges with limited materials. Some grew frustrated when their initial designs didn’t pan out as expected. That’s when I shared my own experiences of studying architecture, reassuring them that failure is a natural part of the creative process and that we always have a budget and limited materials so we have to think about how we can efficiently use these resources  in our design to create a strong bridge.
Finally, the moment of truth – testing the bridges! Excitement reached its peak as the kids carefully placed books one by one on their ingenious creations. Some bridges proved resilient, while others collapsed on themselves and formed a flat surface but we still tested these flattened bridges as they could hold more books and so the children could see how a bridge fails. One particularly remarkable bridge defied all odds, holding a staggering 47 books without breaking a sweat! 

Scavengers to Managers Training:

I had the privilege to participate in the weekly training which was conducted by Bilal and Shruti and Kriti. This particular week, the focus was on a pressing health concern in New Delhi – conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye disease. With the number of cases on the rise, it was vital to equip the waste pickers with essential knowledge about this infectious condition. The training covered various aspects, including the causes, symptoms, prevention, and available cures for conjunctivitis. Moreover, it aimed to dispel any misconceptions or false beliefs surrounding the disease. The training was not limited to conjunctivitis alone; the waste pickers also learned about the distinctions between viruses, bacteria, and fungi, essential knowledge that empowers them to protect themselves and their communities from potential health hazards. To enhance the learning experience, we ventured outside for a hands-on exercise. We identified common environmental elements that could lead to illnesses, like open stagnant water bodies, which become breeding grounds for harmful larvae and mosquitoes. With the monsoon season in full swing, it became evident that mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria posed additional risks. As a preventive measure, the waste pickers were educated on the significance of using mosquito repellent and mosquito repellent incense at home. Overall, the training session not only equipped the waste pickers with valuable information to safeguard their health but also empowered them to share this knowledge within their communities. It was truly inspiring to witness their dedication to making a positive impact on their surroundings, and I left the session with a profound admiration for their resilience and commitment to creating a healthier and safer environment for all.

A random but fun note – I went on a heritage walking tour this weekend in the Lodhi Art District and saw such amazing artwork with deep meanings by artists from around the world. I was pleasantly surprised to see that one of the murals was done in collaboration with an Indian artist, Shilo Shiv Suleman, and the waste pickers of Chintan!!

In just one exhilarating week at Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group, I witnessed impactful programs transforming waste pickers into leaders, advocating for climate change awareness, and empowering young minds through education. The dedication of waste pickers in managing waste and the commitment to creating a greener future inspired me. I am honored to be part of this inspiring mission and look forward to contributing further to their noble cause.

Hello from the colorful streets of New Delhi, India! – Aanya Arora, BArch 24

Sunday 23rd July 2023

Hello from the colorful streets of New Delhi, India!

It is 95°F with a humidity of 75% so I am already feeling the heat of Delhi summers!
Over the past couple of days, my experiences in India have been quite eventful and exciting. One of the highlights was spending time with my loving grandmother, who has gone above and beyond to make me feel welcome. She has constantly offering and insisting I try all sorts of delicious foods. Her warmth and hospitality have made me feel truly special. She took me to a bustling street market called ‘Janpath’ and saw a treasure trove of the most amazing jewelry and clothing collections. The craftsmanship and intricate designs of the jewelry left me in awe, from the delicate silver anklets to the dazzling array of earrings. The clothing stalls were equally enchanting, showcasing a kaleidoscope of fabrics and patterns, ranging from elegant sarees adorned with exquisite embroidery to contemporary and stylish Kurtis.

Another remarkable experience was taking my first ride on the Delhi metro. Unlike the bustling and complicated NYC subway system, the Delhi metro was refreshingly simple to navigate, impeccably clean, and felt extremely safe. It left me with a sense of wonder at how efficiently it serves the city’s population.

In the heart of Old Delhi, I explored the Paper Market in Chandni Chowk, a vibrant shopping area. It’s a wholesale paradise where I managed to purchase workshop supplies at incredibly low prices. The variety of materials available there was astonishing, from resin beads to an impressive range of pens. I even met an entrepreneurial gentleman who made a living by selling every type of tape you could think of!

As I prepare for the workshops, I’ve been meticulously crafting lesson plans and demonstrations to engage the participants effectively. However, I must admit that I’m feeling a bit nervous about speaking in Hindi. Technical words, such as those related to bridge building, pose a challenge for me as I’m unsure about their accurate translation and pronunciation. Fortunately, the helpful folks at Chintan assured me that using English for such terms would be well understood or even serve as a learning opportunity for the children.

Being in New Delhi has exposed me to several intriguing developments. The city is rapidly embracing technology, with even local fruit and vegetable vendors accepting mobile banking services like Paytm (a service similar to Venmo). I’ve also noticed a growing effort to raise awareness about environmental issues. Signs promoting energy conservation and the use of LED light bulbs can be found at various locations, demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainability. Moreover, the implementation of waste separation bins throughout the city showcases a dedication to promoting recycling and composting practices.

The pace of infrastructure development in India is astounding. The construction of over 5000 kilometers of National Highways in 2022 alone has significantly improved public access and transportation. This progress bodes well for the future of the country and the convenience of its citizens.
So far my time in New Delhi has been filled with enriching experiences and eye-opening observations.

I look forward to more adventures and discoveries as I continue my journey here.