Encounters Through Art
Inquire, create and renew ancestral histories, traditions and worldviews that are embedded in countless creative expressions that have emerged from the vast soils of Gondwanaland…
Through an ongoing series, Encounters Through Art, ChitAmbara creates a Space for masters of all art forms to both share and learn.
Kuttiattam
January 2024 | Art Scantuary, Perth, Australia
Kuttiyattam, the traditional Sanskrit theatre came alive for a moment in time at the Arts Sanctuary. Time in that moment stood still, as we were absorbed through ritual & transported to another realm. For a moment our eyes were caught by the powerful gestures and expression of Ramith Ramesh, a young artist from Kerala - trained at the renowned Kalamandalam centre.
Ramith demonstrated the minute details of Jatayu & Ravana through his body, limbs, facial expressions, hand gestures and emotions. The ambience of the performance space within nature's setting was healing. Ramith dwelled into the characters so magnificently, each nuance uplifted the observer’s spirit even higher. Such was the power of this ancient art form. It pulls you, engages you, holds you and takes you to a place you probably have never been to! The layers of shades of meaning in metaphors and delicate implications which is the hallmark of this art form, brought tears to my eyes. That moment of bliss can never be explained.
Young talented artist Ramit takes you to that space through his love and passion for this 'dying art form'. As Ramith expresses, "There are only 20 artists in the world that practice this ancient art form. And out of that, there are only 7 young artists. It is considered an endangered/ almost extinct art form in the world today."
Are we only the observers of this art form or are we also the caretakers who wish to see this thousand-year-old tradition sustained, spread and touch many more hearts, is a question I had in mind. To keep it alive is like giving birth to a child and nurturing it to its greatest potential with love and care and be of service to humanity.
Pranams and thank you to Ramith and his team for an unforgettable evening. Through your art, you have captivated our hearts too!! We shall meet again, some place some time!
Saseedaran Anandan | Kuttiattam Participant | January 2024
MAMMUNG
Learning from the ancient as we traverse into an uncertain future
5 October 2024 | Art Scantuary, Perth, Australia
This Navaratri, join us at The Art Sanctuary as we looks to ancient wisdom to guide our future. Present by ChitaAmbara as an encounters through art event and led by Noongar Elder Uncle Noel Nannup, this event is an exploration of how ancient traditions can inspire us to restore balance with the Earth.
The evening will feature a special screening of the film Mammung, which delves into the Indigenous concept of interconnected knowledge, often likened to a 'spider web.' The film illustrates how every action we take reverberates throughout our environment, offering profound insights into how ancient practices can inform our modern efforts to heal the planet.
We will also explore the significance of Navaratri in Indian culture—a time dedicated to offering and renewal. By drawing parallels between these sacred rituals and our urgent need to heal the Earth, we’ll reflect on how both Indigenous perspectives and Indian traditions can inspire us to give back to Mother Earth.
Details:
Event Name: Mammung - A Journey into Ancient Wisdom for Our Future
Date: Saturday, October 5, 2024
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: The Art Sanctuary
This event is more than just a gathering; it’s a call to action. It’s about healing, connecting, and evolving—both as individuals and as a collective. Let us come together to listen, learn, and offer back to Mother Earth as we embark on this journey of renewal and collective healing.
We look forward to welcoming you at the Art Sanctuary for an evening of reflection and connection.
ChitAmbara | Art Sanctuary Foundation | Indigenous Tours WA
