Roderick Wijunamai (2nd from L) seen with Coordinator, Akumtong Imchen (L) and others during the opening of the Look Up Exhibition at the Highland Institute on September 21.
Morung Express News
Kohima | September 21
With a special focus on indigenous plants and animals, stars and constellations, and butterflies, an exhibition under the theme “Look Up” organised by the Highland Institute was formally opened today by Roderick Wijunamai, a Research Fellow at The Highland Institute.
The Exhibition will run from September 21 to October 5, 2024 and will be open from Tuesdays to Saturdays. During this period, it will host various activities and informative exhibits on gibbons, butterflies, orchids, and especially indigenous astronomy.
Giving an overview of the exhibition, Coordinator, Akumtong Imchen said that, “‘Look Up’ is more than just an exhibition; it's an invitation to rediscover our connection with the sky and the natural world.” He said that the event has been curated to take people on a journey through the indigenous imagination, delving into the astrological systems, cosmology, and mythology of the Nagas.
Stating that “as we gaze up at the stars, we are reminded of the ancient wisdom that has guided our ancestors”, he said that “the constellations and stars have been a source of fascination, inspiration, and guidance for generations.” The Exhibition, he added, “will explore how the lives of the Naga people have been shaped by their interests in generating meaning from the celestial bodies.”
Further bringing attention to the vibrant world of flora and fauna that thrives above the ground, he said that, “we will discover the importance of gibbons, butterflies, orchids, and trees in our ecosystem.” These species, he emphasised are not just integral to our biodiversity but hold significant cultural and spiritual value.
Through interactive displays, artworks, and storytelling, the exhibition will further “delve into the intricate relationships between our natural world and human experience and also examine how climate change affects our precious water cycle, precipitation levels, and the delicate balance of our ecosystem.”
“This exhibition is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Naga people. It's a call to action, reminding us of our responsibility to preserve our natural world for future generations”, he said.
As people explore the exhibition, he also urged them to “Look up to the stars and contemplate the ancient wisdom of our ancestors. Look up to the canopy and appreciate the beauty of our flora and fauna. Look up to the possibilities of a sustainable future.”
“Let us rediscover our connection with the natural world and inspire a new generation to cherish and protect it”, he said.
Mention may be made here that the information presented at the exhibition has been taken from archival research as well as from interviews with local conservationists. Activities include South Asia’s first ever UV Mini Golf station, an arcade game station hosting Gibbons: Beyond the Trees (2022), a gibbon-based platform game, and many other engaging activities that seek to educate through a combination of play and wonder.
The exhibition is open to everyone and will take place at The Highland Institute, P Khel, (Near “Nest and Nosh”).
