Chai and Clay: Diyas for Diwali

In this class with Samyuktha and Zoe, learn how to hand-sculpt traditional oil lamps and incorporate intricate designs. We'll go over the history and symbolism of diyas and Diwali. All the clay and cotton wicks are provided, just bring your enthusiasm and a friend. We’ll also have chai and snacks for the holiday! About the Instructors Samyuktha Iyer (she/they) is a sustainable development and climate researcher who has contributed to studies on farmer and fisher livelihoods in Cambodia, hydroelectric dam impacts in the Global South, and the adoption of climate-friendly actions in households. They have always been interested in connecting academic knowledge to practice and centering environmental justice in their work. They have also helped create a community garden and love to grow food, herbs, and flowers. In the past few years they have delved more deeply into Tamil herbalism, food history, and are interested in preserving traditional skills and folk wisdom in South Asia. Zoe is a teaching artist and curator engaging with Caribbean folklore stories. Her video artwork often takes an interest in the transformation of objects over time; whether reflected in the decay of family VHS tapes or the erosion of slave ship wreckage. Butler’s research practice responds to the materiality of archival artifacts. Her work aspires to embrace the abstraction and abundance of counter-histories and to encourage people to see themselves beyond the representational.