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Arts & Communication Tech revitalization of Yakshagana artifacts

Figure 8. Weapons (ayudhas) used in Badaguthittu Yakshagana

engineering, finite element analysis, and rapid prototyping, 4.4. Experimentation and testing
can be employed. 21 Since costume parts are mainly for decoration and
4.3. Reinforcement of manufacturing/fabrication normally subjected to less intense operating loads, the
methods components can be designed according to stiffness
requirements, instead of extreme structural, fatigue, or
In general, the strength and stiffness in the costume thermal conditions. However, to understand the operating
parts differ from the mechanical parts in, for example, loads of these components, it is essential to closely examine
the automotive, aerospace, or other similar sectors. This their usage. It is also necessary to study the different
provides a scope for research in the area of composite modes of failure and the distribution of structural loads
materials as a replacement for wood and leather. For or load paths. In this regard, extensive measurements and
instance, advanced manufacturing techniques, such as experimentation during the performance are required.
injection molding, can be adopted for the mass production For example, shape distortion and tip deformation are
of certain parts. The possibility of employing additive common issues (Figure 10) with pagade-type headdresses,
manufacturing techniques to produce complex shapes of based on the artists’ experiences. Specifically, the tip of
the parts can also be explored. the pagade can easily be broken or bent with regular use,
Regarding the wearing of costume parts, it can be tedious while permanent edge deformation can occur on each
and time-consuming. For example, there is the traditional side where the thread of the thaavare (lotus decoration)
method of building a pagade using atte (Figure 9). In this passes through. Thus, visual identification of the damaged
process, the artists must build the headdresses on their pieces is required to validate all of the features and the
own before every performance. However, this can be possibility of other failure mechanisms. In addition,
simplified to reduce time and effort. In recent years, artists photographs and video clips can be used to document
have found a more straightforward approach using a pre- the relevant information, while measurements should be
made thermocol (made from polystyrene) headdress. taken to determine the dimensions, weight, size variant
Nevertheless, various concerns have emerged regarding its details, operational loads, and other characteristics of
fit, size, and shape, with potential flaws (Figure 10) such as the parts. Structural simulations under extreme loading
durability. Hence, a primary focal area is the design and conditions can also provide a more detailed explanation
development of the headdresses (Figure 6). Specifically, for such breakdowns. Finally, holding frequent discussions
investigations in this area can help standardize the shape, with artists and conducting field experiments can help
size, design, parametric modeling, structural analysis, comprehend the practical challenges and requirements of
and standard production techniques for the headdress the newly produced parts or ornaments.
assembly, significantly contributing to the art form in
particular, and benefiting the Yakshagana community in 4.5. Sustainable/green solutions
general. The findings can also serve as a model for future Recycling and reusing materials as well as using
research into similar challenges in other creative genres. biodegradable materials can lead to sustainable solutions

Volume 2 Issue 4 (2024) 8 doi: 10.36922/ac.3052