A Brush with Art is a series of individual workshops that engage participants in exploring different art movements and artists while they create their own unique artworks. Each chapter promises engaging discussion, encourages individual thought and experiential learning!

Chapter 3 is an on-site storytelling and art session at the Kanheri Caves. Nestled in the midst of thick jungles in Borivali, the Kanheri Caves give an insight into a very important period in Indian civilization. Dating back to the 1st century BCE, these rock cut caves were meant for travelling Buddhist monks to seek refuge from heavy rains and other disasters while also serving as an abode and learning centre/monastery at that time. Over a 100 caves dot this magnificent area, complete with sleeping quarters, living quarters and learning areas for monks including a beautiful rock cut prayer/Chaitya hall. Participants will view the caves, hear interesting stories about them and create charcoal sketches like artists do!

About the Facilitator

This workshop is being conducted by Dr. Manjiri Thakoor. She has been the department head at Rachana Sansad Institute of Fine Arts and Crafts in Mumbai. She has also been a visiting faculty member at J.J School of Arts among other colleges in Mumbai and India. She has also been deputy curator at National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai. She has a PhD in Buddhist Sculpture from Mumbai University. She has a wide array of professional experience, some of which includes, being consultant for the Ajanta Caves Exhibition Centre, Aurangabad, an Indo-Japanese government venture, a cultural project. (Entire research on art and sculpture w.r.t. Ajanta from 2006-2010), research associate to the Director, Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as Prince of Wales Museum (2009-2010), documented the Tata Archives at The National Archives, London, for the Prince of Wales Museum. (Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, CSMVS, Mumbai), among several others.