On two serene winter mornings, January 18 and February 1, a picturesque heritage courtyard nestled in the heart of south Kolkata underwent a beautiful transformation. This charming space became a sanctuary dedicated to art, deep reflection, and meaningful human connection. The catalyst for this transformation was the Cosy Corners Art Words and Belonging workshop, a uniquely curated creative experience inspired by the Danish concept of Hygge.
A Sanctuary for Slow Living and Creative Expression
Curated by Indrani Banerjee, the visionary founder of SPLOT, this intimate gathering was organized in collaboration with CalcuttaNerds, with ticketing managed through the Boshow platform. Across two separate, cozy editions, a total of twenty-four participants came together for a three-hour journey that prioritized experience over explanation. Rather than merely discussing the philosophy of Hygge, the workshop was designed to allow attendees to live it through mindful presence, tactile engagement, and shared, comfortable stillness.
Beginning with Breathwork and Visualization
The session commenced with a gentle, guided breathwork and visualization exercise, carefully crafted to help participants decelerate their pace and arrive fully in the moment. "The core idea was to cultivate a safe, welcoming space where individuals could truly slow down, feel secure, and create something profoundly personal with their own hands," explained Indrani Banerjee. She emphasized her belief that "access to artistic expression should be universal, completely independent of one's prior skills or technical experience."
The Heart of the Workshop: Crafting Miniature Libraries
The central, hands-on activity involved the meticulous construction of enchanting miniature pocket libraries. Participants engaged in the delicate process of building tiny shelves, designing and crafting miniature book covers, and artfully arranging diminutive objects like vases, clocks, and coffee mugs. The results were far more than simple craft projects; they emerged as intimate, tangible expressions of personal memory, comfort, and individual narrative.
Participant and Collaborator Reflections
The impact of the workshop resonated deeply with all involved. Rakhi Chakraborty, founder of CalcuttaNerds, expressed profound admiration, stating, "I do not know how Indrani does it. Each time she guides us on an inward journey, we return with untold riches. Her workshops stand apart, offering an experience unlike anything else available."
Participant Nazrana Perween described the environment as deeply nurturing. "The space that SPLOT and CalcuttaNerds co-create is imbued with a genuine sense of safety and comfort. Every single artwork felt so individual and magical, with each person weaving their own unique story into their creation."
This sentiment was powerfully echoed by psychologist Rupanjali Samadder, who shared, "I had the most heartwarming experience. Indrani never fails to inspire, and every workshop I attend with her leaves me having learned something new and valuable about myself and creativity."
The Vision Behind SPLOT and the Future of Mindful Gatherings
Indrani Banerjee, a learning designer by profession, also serves as an art facilitator and tarot reader. Through her initiative, SPLOT, she specializes in curating immersive creative journeys that place emotional connection and personal exploration at the forefront. In an era witnessing growing interest in mindful, intentional gatherings, the Cosy Corners workshop served as a poignant reminder of the quiet, yet immense, power inherent in the acts of making, sharing, and belonging within a supportive community. It highlighted how simple, hands-on creativity in a warm, inviting setting can foster profound personal and collective well-being.
