Mayiladuthurai, August 10, 2024 — In a groundbreaking initiative, the Vivekananda Group of Institutions proudly hosted its inaugural Kirigami workshop, marking the first event of its kind in the Mayiladuthurai district. The workshop aimed to introduce students and educators to the fascinating world of Kirigami, an intricate Japanese art form that merges the skills of cutting and folding paper to create elaborate designs. This event highlighted the institution’s commitment to fostering creativity and preserving traditional arts.
Kirigami, which derives its name from the Japanese words “kiri” (meaning “cut”) and “gami” (meaning “paper”), takes the paper-folding craft of Origami to the next level by incorporating precise cuts, allowing for more detailed and complex designs. The workshop demonstrated how a simple sheet of paper could be transformed into a masterpiece, adding an enchanting touch of magic to the art. The inclusion of cutting techniques in Kirigami allows for the creation of dynamic and three-dimensional patterns that are both visually stunning and artistically rich.
The workshop was led by the renowned artist “Kagithasirpi,” a celebrated figure in the world of paper art. His work has been featured on popular television channels such as Jaya TV, Vasanth TV, Kalaignar TV, and Tamizhan TV, and has garnered recognition in leading print media outlets, including The Hindu, Indian Express, Dina Thanthi, and Dina Malar. Kagithasirpi’s presence and expertise added immense value to the workshop, inspiring students and teachers alike.
During the inaugural function, the Principal commended Kagithasirpi for his outstanding contributions to Kirigami. In his presidential address, the school correspondent underscored the importance of preserving traditional arts like Kirigami, passionately promoting the slogan “Say No to Plastic, Say Yes to Kirigami.” The secretary, in her address, encouraged students to enhance their creativity through such initiatives, striving for excellence in all their endeavors.
The correspondent also took the opportunity to appreciate the exceptional Kirigami pieces created by Kagithasirpi, including intricate representations of the school and a church. He noted that while the material costs might be modest—around Rs. 500—the artistic value of the work elevates its worth significantly, suggesting that the true value could exceed Rs. 2000.
Kagithasirpi’s dedication to promoting Kirigami extends beyond the workshop. His efforts to integrate this art form into educational programs are part of a broader mission to ensure its preservation for future generations. Through events like these, the Vivekananda Group of Institutions continues to nurture creativity, cultural heritage, and artistic excellence among students, ensuring that traditional arts like Kirigami remain vibrant and relevant in today’s world.