A Chronicle of Narratives
The "Chronicle of Narratives" project, part of the "Reimagining the Vernacular" studio at CEPT University, investigates the rich cultural and craft traditions of Gundiyali Village in Kutch, Gujarat, with a focus on its renowned terracotta craft. The project employs ethnographic research to document the lifestyle, practices, and stories of local artisans, particularly Ahmadbhai Kumbhaar’s family, who are pivotal to preserving this heritage.
The main aspect of the project is storytelling through various creative formats. A storybook, inspired by the illustrative style of Ana Albero, narrates the humorous and relatable experiences of a student named Samriddhi, whose clumsiness is captured in playful visuals. Traditional Ganjifa cards, typically used for gaming, are reimagined as storytelling tools that depict key moments from the semester, including field visits, festivals, and interactions with artisans.
The educational game "Enroute Clay’s Journey" is another innovative output. The game simulates the terracotta production process, allowing players to navigate the challenges artisans face, from crafting to selling their products in the market.
Additionally, the graphic novel The Fallen Fate highlights the transformative contributions of SharifaBen, Ahmadbhai’s wife, who challenges traditional gender roles by playing a vital role in sustaining the craft and family livelihood.
Through a combination of fieldwork, creative representation, and cultural analysis, the project brings attention to the intricate relationship between craft, community, and culture in Gundiyali. It showcases the artisans' resilience and creativity while exploring new ways to document and celebrate vernacular traditions.
The work done was later presented in a digital exhibition presented by DICRC for the project ' Celebrating Clay'.
Tutor: Jay Thakkar
Semester 4 | Spring 2020
Educational Game Design
Narrative Mapping - Family
Narrative Mapping - Context
What's Your Story?
