Chatham University

"Actually learning and using another’s language reminds Americans that we are not alone. It is as simple as that. We share the world and its problems. And we cannot solve them all on our own or entirely in English, no matter how many Indians speak or Chinese are learning to speak English. For languages convey much more than facts. Since they are the repositories of culture, knowing them enables us to gain perspective. It has never been more important for Americans to have that degree of understanding or access to different ways of thinking. And, who knows, maybe someone else’s way of reaching a conclusion or stating a fact will change what Americans think, as well as the world we share."

"In my medium of woodcut, it is not at all difficult to learn the technique: even school children can manage to do it easily. That applies to painting as well. But the most difficult part is to sustain the creative force in yourself continuously, year after year. Also, just as living beings need to breathe fresh air, we cannot repeat the same thing. Within the limits of the medium, we have to grow and find a newer and fresher language, both for our own time and to satisfy ourselves, which is not an easy task. In my case, very often I receive inspiration from the life around me: from seeing magnificent trees, powerful rivers, tranquil lakes, majestic mountains, the changing light on vast fields in the country, beautiful dancers and so on; or from hearing music or traveling abroad to visit interesting and unusual places."