The Inspiration
Art Mahal, initiated by 9th-grade student Ali Mehdi, emerged during the pandemic to promote his artistic skills and foster a community centred around a shared love for art. With ample free time at home, Ali sought to benefit himself and the community. Previously recognized for his research on "The impact of Social Media on mental health" for Beaconhouse Global Projects, Ali understood the detrimental effects of COVID and social media. To counteract this, he started Art Mahal to spread positivity through art, recognizing its soothing qualities for the mind.
The Journey
Art Mahal is the brainchild of a student who witnessed the consequences of the twin menaces; Social Media and COVID. It was during the summer vacations of 2020, when Ali decided that it was time for a change. Art Mahal was born to spread positivity and build a community based on the shared love for Art. Furthermore, during these difficult times, the local artisans have been left in the dust, hence Ali decided to reignite the fire of the Multani kilns, which house the clay vessels made by the local artisans. He started with a few customised paintings including pour paintings, rosemaling, in addition to the stroke paintings.
Key Learnings
Following points summarise the key learning which Ali gained out of this project:
- You don't build a business, you build a network and that network builds your business.
- One of the most important pieces of information Ali got through this project was to develop connections and make the whole process from painting to delivery, an interactive one in order to drive up engagement and sales.
- In addition to this, Ali learned that financing plays a pivotal role in every business. Too low of a price equals loss; whereas, if it's too high, the product won't get any customers.
- And lastly, Ali learned about his culture and Multan's extremely rich heritage, that was the most amazing learning of all.
The Impact
Before this project, Ali had the chance to research the impact of social media on mental health through Beaconhouse global projects. During his research, he conducted a personal study on how art can improve mental well-being, leading to the creation of Art Mahal. The goal of project ‘Art Mahal’ was to spread positivity through art and reduce depression rates among customers, utilising the relaxing experience of online shopping.
Way Forward
As a way forward, Art Mahal aims to provide a platform for the local artisans of Multan and to help provide employment opportunities and a steady income for those in need. This will also enable artisans to polish their skill, transfer their knowledge and craft to the new aspiring artists. The legacy will be carried ahead with innovation and incorporated with evolved ideas
The Inspiration
Art Mahal, initiated by 9th-grade student Ali Mehdi, emerged during the pandemic to promote his artistic skills and foster a community centred around a shared love for art. With ample free time at home, Ali sought to benefit himself and the community. Previously recognized for his research on "The impact of Social Media on mental health" for Beaconhouse Global Projects, Ali understood the detrimental effects of COVID and social media. To counteract this, he started Art Mahal to spread positivity through art, recognizing its soothing qualities for the mind.
The Journey
Art Mahal is the brainchild of a student who witnessed the consequences of the twin menaces; Social Media and COVID. It was during the summer vacations of 2020, when Ali decided that it was time for a change. Art Mahal was born to spread positivity and build a community based on the shared love for Art. Furthermore, during these difficult times, the local artisans have been left in the dust, hence Ali decided to reignite the fire of the Multani kilns, which house the clay vessels made by the local artisans. He started with a few customised paintings including pour paintings, rosemaling, in addition to the stroke paintings.
Key Learnings
Following points summarise the key learning which Ali gained out of this project:
- You don't build a business, you build a network and that network builds your business.
- One of the most important pieces of information Ali got through this project was to develop connections and make the whole process from painting to delivery, an interactive one in order to drive up engagement and sales.
- In addition to this, Ali learned that financing plays a pivotal role in every business. Too low of a price equals loss; whereas, if it's too high, the product won't get any customers.
- And lastly, Ali learned about his culture and Multan's extremely rich heritage, that was the most amazing learning of all.
The Impact
Before this project, Ali had the chance to research the impact of social media on mental health through Beaconhouse global projects. During his research, he conducted a personal study on how art can improve mental well-being, leading to the creation of Art Mahal. The goal of project ‘Art Mahal’ was to spread positivity through art and reduce depression rates among customers, utilising the relaxing experience of online shopping.
Way Forward
As a way forward, Art Mahal aims to provide a platform for the local artisans of Multan and to help provide employment opportunities and a steady income for those in need. This will also enable artisans to polish their skill, transfer their knowledge and craft to the new aspiring artists. The legacy will be carried ahead with innovation and incorporated with evolved ideas
