Working on a festival
What makes a festival? It’s a question that has been asked and answered in countless ways over the years. For some, it’s about the music – the chance to see your favourite bands perform live on stage. For others, it’s about the food, the fashion, or the cultural experience. But at its core, a festival is about something more than any one of these things – it’s about bringing people together to celebrate, to connect, and to share in something special.
Ziro Festival of Music: Crafting Dreams in the Valley
The Ziro Festival of Music, nestled in the scenic Ziro valley of Arunachal Pradesh, is a testament to the power of music and culture. House of Locals’ first project led them here, and it was a journey they’d cherish forever. It wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about immersing in the soul of the festival.
Understanding the Terrain
From the beginning, House of Locals knew that their work at the festival would be more than just designing and curating a visually stunning space. They wanted to create something that would be truly immersive and would speak to the spirit of the festival itself. To do this, they started by understanding their surroundings. When working in a small village or on the outskirts of a city, it is important to understand the local work style, work ethics, and what suits them. So, the first few days went into understanding the ground in which they needed to work – a process known as “recce”. They measured distances, calculated the quantity of lights required, and assessed the availability and accessibility of electricity.
Designing and Sampling
Once they had gathered this information, House of Locals moved on to designing and sampling. Using locally procured raw materials and limited machines, they began the process with lots of experimentation and sampling before finally deciding which lights were feasible and looked good in the space. For two weeks, they went on to make six different designs and two installations, which required a lot of R&D. Special mention must be given to their artisans, who worked with them tirelessly. Working with bamboo for the first time wasn’t easy, but their hard work and dedication made the process smooth.
The Challenge of Illumination
Installing lights in the rugged hills proved to be their Everest. Days before the festival, they raced alongside electricians, securing each pole meticulously. Rain proofing and precise wiring were vital, ensuring a magical show under the stars.
The Festival Unveiled
As the festival dawned, lights adorned the valley, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Two installations captured hearts – one symbolizing the circle of life,the other a Ziro-themed photo booth. It was a testament to House of Locals’ dedication to creating immersive experiences.
Pangsu Pass International Festival:
Crossing Borderstheir next adventure led them to the Pangsu Pass International Festival on the Burma-Arunachal border. This cultural melting pot posed unique challenges. The locals were unaccustomed to such decor, but House of Locals’ dedication won them over.
Lights That Travel Home
A heart-warming outcome awaited them as the festival concluded. The locals embraced their creations, taking the lights to their homes. The festival decor became a part of their everyday lives, a bridge between tradition and modernity.
CRAFTING MEMORIES
Festivals are more than events; they are memories etched in our hearts. House of Locals discovered the profound connection between nature, culture, and happiness. Working with supportive teams, welcoming locals, and appreciative festival-goers, they felt the festival’s heartbeat.
The journey continues as House of Locals looks forward to creating more magic.