Wildroots

In 2016, Assam-based organisation, WildRoots, launched a programme known as Art for Conservation (AFC) in rural and urban educational institutions in the state. A brainchild of Biswajit De, the programme aims to nurture a community of artists and empower aspiring conservation artists to become effective environmental ambassadors.

- Anirudh Nair

Sensitising students about wildlife conservation and climate change through the medium of art was a mandate of the organisation since it was founded in 2012. The AFC programme was therefore a natural progression of the WildRoots’ vision to engage artists and leverage their talent for nature conservation.

De, an artist himself, says, “WildRoots imbibes the true spirit of conservation in the minds of young people. We must remember that ‘nature’ doesn’t belong to just one person, scientist, or a community when we are trying to understand and protect it. Climate change is going to hit us hard, and it’s going to hit everyone irrespective of their social or economic status. Maybe we cannot save all species, which are facing extinction, but what is the harm in trying?”

Using art to convey the urgency of protecting our natural heritage, supporting art and science-based field expeditions, producing publications, organising exhibitions, workshops and fund-raising events and recognising artists are a few initiatives that WildRoots undertakes in their efforts to create environmental awareness.