More cultural and creative workshops are being encouraged in Fiji to help preserve traditional skills while bringing people from different communities together.

The call comes following the conclusion of a craft workshop organised by the High Commission of India through the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, in collaboration with the University of Fiji and supported by the Suva Multicultural Centre.

The programme brought together children, adults and parents during the school holidays to learn Indian and Fijian art forms.

High Commissioner of India to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, says the initiative was designed to create a space where people could learn from different cultures.

“What we have done is bring together one teacher, one expert, one art form every day, over five days,” Mehta said.

Participants were introduced to Madhubani painting, weaving, mixed-media painting, screen painting and bottle painting.

Mehta says the response has demonstrated the value of creating opportunities for people to learn traditional and creative skills.

For participant Glory Khajuria of Toorak, the workshops offered more than just an opportunity to learn art.

Khajuria attended all five sessions and says she has made five pieces which she plans to take home.

She says she also made new friends from different cultural backgrounds.

“It not only enhances the creativity of the participants, but it also gives us a platform to bring all the cultures together,” Khajuria said.

Weaving was the most memorable activity for her, as it was a new skill.

Meanwhile, Suva Multicultural Centre representative Esther Whippy says the centre wants more initiatives of this nature, particularly during school holidays.

She says there is a need to continue sharing and preserving Fiji’s traditional knowledge and cultural practices.

Whippy says the centre is also working towards preserving traditional designs and practices from Fiji’s 14 provinces.

The High Commission of India says there are plans to explore more workshops and an exhibition where participants can display artwork they create using the skills learnt.

Mehta says the programme should not end with the workshop, encouraging participants to continue practising and developing their creativity at home.