Being an eco-friendly designer, I always used to think that sustainability and creativity are not two parallel paths, but twin journeys. So, when JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Bangalore, invited me to organise a workshop, I felt that it was the correct time to share this philosophy with a younger generation of artists, designers, and revolutionaries.

Our session involved crafting handmade, environmentally friendly lanterns—not only as beautification products, but also as symbols of sustainable living. The concept was simple: utilise materials readily available, ensure responsible crafting, and empower the beauty of handmade art.

What made this session remarkable was the dynamic participation. They were happy to roll up their sleeves and get in on it, and they enjoyed the process from design through printing, cutting, and constructing their lanterns. They had never used potatoes to print before, and seeing them in awe as they transformed an ordinary potato into a stamping instrument was worth the trouble. It was a lovely demonstration that creativity is inspired by constrain, —and even in some cases, the best ideas come from the poorest materials.

We also created block printing, an ancient method which permitted students to ada d personal touch and cultural motifs to their lanterns. These hands-on, tangible techniques enabled the convergence of creativity and environmentalism.

Apart from the craft, the impressive part was the community. The workshop area was teeming with laughter, colour, music, and enthusiasm for living sustainably. It was warm to see the students drawn so much to the prospect of being able to create something lovely without harming the earth.

JD Institute’s focus on experiential learning and experimentation through creativity was apparent in every single second of the workshop. Their students are inquisitive, receptive to questioning boundaries—not only design, but questioning boundaries about the world itself.

In an age where quick consumption appears to weigh heavier than considerate creation, workshops such as these are the solution. They’re less about learning a craft—about changing minds, inspiring thoughtful decisions, and instilling respect for responsible craftsmanship.

I didn’t leave JD Institute merely inspired by the lanterns lighting up the studio, but by the imaginative brains lighting it up.