Students explore sustainable creativity in hands-on 3D relief workshop

As part of the academic curriculum, students of GDP–I Semester recently participated in a hands-on 3D Relief Workshop that focused on using newspapers as the primary medium. The session aimed to introduce students to sustainable design practices while deepening their understanding of form, texture, depth, and surface articulation in a three-dimensional context.

The workshop began with students sketching their initial concepts, which served as visual blueprints for their 3D creations. This preparatory phase encouraged them to think critically about composition and spatial relationships. Once the designs were finalised, students explored the process of crushing, shaping, and layering newspaper, experimenting with its flexibility and tactile qualities to create structured reliefs.

Through this hands-on approach, participants learned how different levels and textures could emerge organically, adding visual and structural depth to their pieces. To further enhance their designs, corrugated sheets were integrated into the base structure, offering both support and an added surface dimension. The final step involved the application of colour, which not only highlighted the contours and textures but also brought a sense of vibrancy and individuality to each artwork.

The resulting pieces were a remarkable reflection of students’ creativity and innovative thinking. Each artwork carried a unique interpretation of the theme, showcasing how everyday materials like newspapers can be transformed into expressive, eco-friendly art forms. Beyond technique, the workshop promoted a broader understanding of environmental responsibility in design, aligning with the principles of sustainability and material reuse.

Describing her experience, Mahima Boura, a GDP–Foundation I Semester student, shared, “The 3D Relief with newspaper workshop was a completely new way of creating art. It was fascinating to see how something as simple as newspaper could be transformed into such expressive and sustainable artwork. The process was fun, creative, and pushed me to think differently about materials. I loved experimenting with textures and forms, and it felt amazing to watch my idea take shape. This workshop truly encouraged me to explore more eco-friendly approaches to design.”

Overall, the workshop served as an inspiring platform for students to experiment, innovate, and embrace sustainable design thinking. It not only strengthened their understanding of three-dimensional art but also instilled in them a sense of responsibility towards adopting greener creative practices. The session successfully merged artistic exploration with environmental awareness, demonstrating how design education can pave the way for a more thoughtful and sustainable future.