Tuesday, July 12, 2011

NID traces footprints of photography in India-If the project is successful, we may compile it in a book form. It will be the bible of Indianphotograpy



NID traces footprints of photography in India

The design school aims at documenting the genesis of photography, from black and white to the colour, from across the globe

Shraddha Singh

Posted On Monday, July 11, 2011 at 02:03:15 AM


Deepak John Matthew, co-ordinator, Photography Design
Two of the photographs from the collection

In an attempt to document the history of Indian photography, students of National Institute of Design (NID) under the guidance of their faculty are collecting photographs of yesteryears from across the country.

What started as a classroom assignment three years ago now assumes a great significance as the project will piece together the genesis of photography, from the era of black and white to the age of colour.

Every year, a batch of 15 students of second year visit different places of their choice and meet lensman and individuals who are associated with studios and own rare photo collection.

“We are attempting to fill the vacuum in the history of Indian photography. It will take another five to six years to cover significant aspects of photography in India. We are including the works of not just ace photographers but also of unknown photographers,” said Deepak John Matthew, co-ordinator, Photography Design.

So far, NIDians have been to about 30 places in the country and gathered photographs from known and unknown studios and individuals.

“It is often seen that many low-profile photographers are not aware of the importance of the photo they have in their collection. We will include the photographs and their details in our documentation along with proper analysis. A photograph is included in the records after a detailed study of its technique, elements and background,” said Matthew.

“If the project is successful, we may compile it in a book form. It will be the bible of Indian photography,” he added.

No comments: