Riyaaz: Academy for illustrators
The Riyaaz Academy for Illustrators was jointly initiated by Parag initiative of Tata Trusts, Eklavya, Bhopal and illustrator Atanu Roy in 2015. Riyaaz is a platform for young illustrators to explore different forms of illustrations through a dual mode – one week of theory and intensive hands on practice and three weeks of distance mode every month, supported with mentoring by a group of eminent professionals. The ten-month certificate course aims to hone perceptual and professional skills of the students. Riyaaz alumni are working for many publishers including Pratham Books, Eklavya, NCERT, Room to Read and Agha Khan Foundation.
Training & Mentoring – A Riyaazi draws and re-draws tirelessly, plays with colours and brushes, and looks for subjects from dawn to dusk striving to reach a higher goal.
Continuous Feedback & One-to-One Sessions – At Riyaaz, students give feedback to each other during group discussions. The faculty facilitates detailed discussions on the text and the visualization of illustrations. Feedback and support from the faculty is provided even during the distance period.
Field Trips – Field trips are organised regularly to selected sites to encourage detailed observations necessary for realistic drawing. Students are encouraged to interact with their subjects before they start drawing
Professional Opportunities – Students may be offered professional assignments during the course. The course period ends with an exhibition where students are introduced to publishers.
