Laughter and color filled the air at the Haddon Township Library on Monday, Nov. 10 as local children gathered for a hands-on Rangoli workshop led by artist and community organizer Sapana Raval, vice president of the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club.
Raval, known for her dedication to promoting traditional Indian art forms, collaborated with Perkins Center for the Arts and the Camden County Library System to bring the event to life. The workshop introduced children ages 9 to 12 to the intricate art of Rangoli—a vibrant Indian tradition that symbolizes prosperity, joy, and the welcoming of guests through colorful ground designs made with sand, rice, or flower petals.
“It was a beautiful opportunity to share Indian culture with young learners in a fun, interactive way,” she said.
The program, organized with the help of Marion Jacobson, director of folklife at Perkins Center for the Arts, was met with enthusiastic participation. Eleven children and three teen volunteers explored mandala-style patterns using bright-colored sand and stencils, learning not only about technique but also the deeper cultural meaning behind the designs.
“Watching the children’s excitement was the most rewarding part,” Raval said. “They started with one piece and kept asking to make more. Seeing their faces light up when they showed their artwork to their parents was truly special.”
Martha Cannon, youth services librarian at the Camden County Library System, helped coordinate the event and participated alongside the children.
“The program was informative and so much fun,” she said. “The kids absolutely loved the Rangoli project—I think they would have happily stayed another hour to keep creating. It’s always wonderful to see how art can bring joy and curiosity together in one space.”
Cannon added that the success of the workshop has inspired her to bring similar programs to other age groups.
“Our Teen Group would love a Rangoli workshop too,” she said. “It’s a great way for them to learn about cultural art forms while expressing themselves creatively.”
Jacobson noted that the event was part of Perkins’ ongoing mission to highlight cultural diversity across South Jersey.
“At Perkins, we’re always looking for ways to celebrate the living traditions that make our communities so vibrant,” Jacobson said. “Workshops like this open doors—they help young people appreciate the beauty of different cultures while finding their own creativity in the process.”
Each participant left with a personal Rangoli design and extra supplies to continue creating at home. Parents expressed gratitude for the meaningful and educational experience, many noting how it brought families closer together through shared creativity.
Raval hopes to continue offering similar cultural programs in the region.
“Art has the power to connect people,” she said. “Through workshops like this, we can bridge cultures, inspire teamwork, and celebrate the diversity that makes our communities so strong.”
Upcoming events hosted by Perkins Center for the Arts include the “Move the World” cultural performance series, featuring African Joy on Dec. 12 in Collingswood. For more information and upcoming events visit www.perkinsarts.org.
