The MAP Academy, in collaboration with Nalli Silks, is excited to announce the launch of the MAP Academy & Nalli Fellowships for the year 2024–25. These Fellowships aim to generate new interest and research in South Asia’s rich textile traditions, providing significant support to projects that delve into the region’s diverse textile practices.
About the Fellowships
The Fellowships, sponsored by Nalli Silks’ focus on textile production and design, and the MAP Academy’s commitment to fostering incisive research in South Asian art histories, offer two distinct categories: the Research Fellowship and the Educator Fellowship. Each Fellowship includes a budget of up to INR 5,50,000 and will support projects focusing on handmade, machine-made, semi-mechanised, or digitally produced textiles. The funding is intended for various project-related expenses, including technology, research fees, equipment, training materials, travel within South Asia, and other essential resources.
Research Fellowship
The Research Fellowship seeks proposals that explore lesser-known textiles, practices, communities, and histories within South Asia. Projects should aim to:
- Expand academic or practice-based inquiry into textile research.
- Utilize existing textiles and practices as sources of inspiration.
- Critically approach documented and oral histories of textiles.
- Investigate the significance of tool-making, motifs, and designs.
- Disseminate knowledge in South Asian languages through translations.
- Innovate or revive historical textile techniques and materials.
- Address sustainability and equitable resource distribution in textiles.
Potential outcomes for the Research Fellowship include the publication of written work, multimedia outcomes such as films or podcasts, exhibitions, workshops, conferences, new artworks, designs, fashion objects, or other experimental projects.
Educator Fellowship
The Educator Fellowship invites proposals focused on disseminating knowledge of South Asian textiles through educational initiatives. Projects should aim to:
- Build curriculums on the histories of South Asian textiles.
- Create training resources for teachers and pedagogical tools.
- Ground teaching practices in fieldwork and community experiences.
- Address relationships between industry stakeholders.
- Reflect on current knowledge production in textiles.
- Emphasize sustainability and resource distribution in textile education.
Potential outcomes for the Educator Fellowship include special classroom interventions, local conferences, workshops, symposia, publication of pedagogical work, training of teachers and facilitators, use of digital tools for knowledge dissemination, and other experimental educational projects.
Eligibility and Application Process
Applications are open to individuals over 18 years of age, based in South Asia, with demonstrated familiarity with textile research and practices. The proposed projects must have tangible outcomes within a year of the Fellowship’s commencement.
The application deadline is 30th September 2024, 11:59 PM IST. Applications will be reviewed by a five-member Advisory Committee comprising representatives from the MAP Academy, Nalli, and three external specialists in textiles, design, and arts education. Shortlisted candidates will be notified by the end of November 2024.
For further details and to apply, please visit their website.
About MAP Academy
The MAP Academy is a non-profit online resource that focuses on the art histories of South Asia. Through its core projects — Online Courses, Encyclopedia of Art, and the upcoming Timeline of Art — it aims to make art histories more accessible, based on the idea that doing so can have a positive social impact through broadening perspectives on humanity, heritage and culture. The MAP Academy is a project of The Art & Photography Foundation, a Public Charitable Trust registered in Bengaluru in 2011, with 80G, 12AA, CSR and FCRA certifications, which also supports the Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) in Bengaluru.
About Nalli Silks
Established in 1928, Nalli is an iconic, heritage brand known for wedding and Kanchipuram silks. In its nearly 100 year legacy, the family-run business has been known for its innovation, being the first to bring chemical dyes to Indian silks, and exquisite craftsmanship. It was commissioned in 1911 to present a handcrafted Kanchipuram silk to King George V during the reigning monarch’s visit to India following his coronation. Today, it is also known for its patronage of Carnatic music, Bharatnatram, and cultural arts for over six decades, in addition to its success as one of the largest sari retailers with 40+ stores all over the world. With the MAP Academy & Nalli Fellowship, it hopes to foster a deeper understanding of art, craft and textiles from underrepresented regions to a wider audience, aligning with the mission to make art histories more accessible and impactful.
Catalyst Alumna Working With Textiles
Sanra Shaw, COO, Women Weave Charitable Trust, Rehwa Society India
“I embarked on my journey with WomenWeave Charitable Trust (The Handloom School) as the program coordinator, dedicated to empowering young handloom weavers and unskilled women through training programs aimed at creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. Working in a rural setting has been both humbling and inspiring, reinforcing my commitment to a career path that serves my vision of working ‘For the People and With the People’.As a Chief Operating Officer (COO) for both WomenWeave Charitable Trust and REHWA Society—esteemed initiatives dedicated to empowering local and national artisans in the Handloom Sector, founded by the Holkar family of Central India—I am thankful for the chance to lead an expanded and diverse team.”
Sanra was mentored at Catalyst for a career in social sector – climate action while she was pursuing Bachelors in Political Science at Loreto College, Kolkata .
Empower Your Fellowship Journey with Catalyst Learning Services
At Catalyst Learning Services, we are dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their dreams and make a significant impact in the world. With over 14 years of expertise in mentoring students and professionals, we are uniquely positioned to help you secure the prestigious MAP Academy & Nalli Fellowships.
Why Choose Catalyst for Your Fellowship Preparation?
- Expert Guidance: Our founder, Sauraveswar Sen, and our team of experienced mentors will provide you with personalised guidance throughout your fellowship application process. Benefit from our in-depth knowledge of the textile sector and social development.
- Proven Success: Our mentees have successfully transitioned into impactful roles as researchers, program managers, policy advocates, and sustainability officers in the textile industry. Their achievements are a testament to the effectiveness of our mentoring approach.
- Comprehensive Support: From crafting a compelling proposal to preparing for interviews, we offer end-to-end support. Our structured mentoring includes feedback on your project ideas, assistance with documentation, and strategies for showcasing your strengths and experiences.
- Exclusive Webinars and Workshops: Gain access to exclusive webinars and workshops designed to enhance your understanding of the fellowship criteria and expectations. Engage directly with experts and current fellows to gain insights and tips.
- Network and Community: Join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about textiles and social development. Our network offers opportunities for collaboration, peer support, and professional growth.
- Fieldwork and Research Opportunities: We provide opportunities for active fieldwork and research through our collaborations with renowned organizations. Enhance your project with practical experience and real-world insights.
- Ethical and Inclusive Approach: At Catalyst, we emphasize the highest standards of ethics, sensitivity, and inclusivity. We ensure that your engagement with communities is respectful and impactful.
Start Your Journey with Catalyst Today
Enrol with Catalyst Learning Services to unlock your potential and make your application for the MAP Academy & Nalli Fellowships stand out. Let us help you navigate the path to positive impact and make a meaningful contribution to the world of textiles.
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Click here to connect with Sauraveswar Sen, Founder, Catalyst on LinkedIn
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Are you interested in a rewarding career with the social sector – sustainability – climate action ? Register for a Career Mapping Session. Here are some ways Catalyst can help you:
- Entrance Exam Preparation: Catalyst provides specialised coaching and guidance for various entrance exams related to social sciences, public policy, and development studies. This includes exams for admissions into top institutions like TISS (Tata Institute of Social Sciences), IIT, IIPH (Indian Institutes of Public Health), Azim Premji University, and others. Comprehensive study materials, mock exams, and expert guidance are provided to ensure students are well-prepared.
- Career Mapping: Catalyst offers career mapping services to help individuals identify their strengths, interests, and career goals within the social sector. This includes helping students understand the various career paths available, such as social work, public health, development studies, and more.
- Skill Development: The social sector demands a unique skill set. Catalyst conducts skill development programs that focus on essential skills like research, data analysis, project management, and communication. These skills are vital for success in roles related to policy analysis, program management, and advocacy.
- Internship and Project Support: Catalyst assists students in finding relevant internships and projects within the social sector. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building practical skills and understanding real-world challenges in areas like healthcare, education, and community development.
- Interview Preparation: For students aiming to secure admissions to prestigious institutions or land jobs in the social sector, Catalyst conducts interview preparation sessions. This includes mock interviews, feedback, and guidance on how to present their skills and experiences effectively.
- Networking Opportunities: Catalyst organises events, workshops, and seminars that provide networking opportunities with professionals and organisations in the social sector. Building a strong professional network is essential for career growth and finding job opportunities.
- Mentorship: Experienced mentors from Catalyst provide one-on-one guidance and support to students and professionals. They offer insights into the industry, share their experiences, and help mentees navigate their career paths.
- Customised Training: Catalyst understands that individuals come from diverse backgrounds and have different career aspirations. They offer customised training programs tailored to the unique needs and goals of each student or professional.
- Continuous Learning: The social sector is dynamic, and professionals need to stay updated with the latest developments. Catalyst offers continuous learning opportunities through webinars, workshops, and access to relevant publications and resources.
- Placement Support: Catalyst provides assistance in job placements and fellowships within the social sector. They connect students and professionals with organisations that align with their career goals.
About Catalyst: Since 2011, students and working professionals have been able to successfully craft a career with Bachelors and Masters programmes offered by TISS, Azim Premji University, TERI, XIM, IIT, Nirmala Niketan, NLSIU, Sciences Po, London School of Economics and Political Science, Symbiosis, IIMC, ACJ, XIC, JNU, Ambedkar University et al with capacity building training for development sector at Catalyst.
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