Traditional Art Within The Academy: India
Mohammad Hossein Zekrgou
Reprinted from: Honar Nameh, University of Art, Tehran, No. 1, 1997 (A brief of the article)


Traditional Art within the Academy:
A Survey of the Art Education System of India

Crisis of identity in the most fundamental cultural problem of the world in the threshold of the 21st century. Conflict between traditional values that have their roots in ancient civilizations and modernizations, which can be interpreted as debunking of tradition, has produced psychological turmoil and suspension of identity, particularly among the young generation. This paradox is revealed very clearly in the works of art, so that the continuities of traditional society are visible in traditional art, and the confusion and anxiety of a hectic modern life are revealed in the works of modern art.

The basic question thus posed is whether traditional art and traditional teaching can fit within the framework of the modern academy. Many scholars and thinkers have attempted, and are still attempting, to reconcile tradition and modernity. Talk of reconciliation between East and West is another aspect to reconcile tradition (East) and modernity (West).

With a history of several thousand years long and a deep and rich culture, India has always been in the forefront of adherence to tradition. Efforts toward uniting the traditional and modern worldviews are observable in the art education system of India.

Art education authorities in India have undoubtedly faces successes and failures in their efforts. This is an experience, which can be useful in planning art education in other countries. India's experience is particularly relevant for countries such as Iran with ancient cultures and traditions and similar problems.

Wooden Window Kashmir