“If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced,” said Vincent Van Gogh, perhaps the true joy of art is not so much in what we create but in the attempt and desire to create. Spreading the joy of creating is Vivikoh Studio, a ceramic studio in Panchkula, near Chandigarh. Founded by artist, potter, and designer (whatever you wish to call her since she doesn’t believe in labels) Vivitsa Kohli, the studio is a community workspace that also doubles up as a multi-disciplinary teaching studio.
“I use this space to explore ideas I want to introduce to the world. There’s a lack of information and knowledge of this craft and material along with its endless possibilities in the Indian design community and culture. I’m trying to bridge the gap between pop culture and artisanal hand-made things; the joy of creating products you can use in your daily life,” says Kohli who offers residency programs, clay therapy workshops, weekend and weekday classes for local residents or free workshops every now and then called ‘Make it or Break it’ where you get create ceramic pieces and then have to break your creation as a funny way of learning the art of letting go.
They are flexible with their residency-based courses and impart enough knowledge during those courses so that their students can create without guidance. Since they’re a community studio, they also encourage their students to ‘rent’ the studio for their own ideas and projects.
Having started the independent ceramic studio right after she graduated as an Industrial Designer specializing in Ceramic Design from NID in the January of 2019, Vivista’s journey with her studio has been one that has fueled many to deep dive into art and, creativity and the joy of creating.
So go take those pottery classes you’ve long been stalling and immerse yourself in the joy of art. You know what’s even better? Consider it a bonus because you also get to keep your creations!
Know more about Vivikoh Studio here.
If you enjoyed reading this article, we suggest you also read: