The Association of People with Disability (APD) has always strived towards empowering the differentially-abled.
They recently organised a painting workshop for the differently-abled at Janapadaloka, and 'Kala Sourabha', an exhibition held at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, showcased the art works of the participants.
People, animals, landscapes and objects were used by the participants to convey their emotions and ideas. Six media including oil, water, crayons, mat finish, charcoal and mixed were used.
"A five-day workshop was organised in association with Ken School of Art, for the participants aged between 15-30 years. An interaction with eminent artists including M B Patil and students of the Ken School was a part of the programme," says APD Arts teacher Shivabodh.
From brushes and media to colours, they were taught everything. To make it an easy start, the participants were given lessons on how to make drawings using alphabets and numbers. "This way they got a crash course in both basic education and in painting," he adds.
The programme was in a way a sensitisation initiative too. "As normal students of the Ken School were also in the camp they realised the challenges that the differentially-abled were faced with and vowed to contribute towards making the latter self-reliant. On the other hand the differentially-abled became more confident after mixing with normal persons," Shivabodh says.
APD is committed to boosting the confidence of those with physical and mental disorders. Art therapy is what we chose this time. We wanted to provide them with a platform to bring out their creativity and also forget their pains. We want them to be treated as equals and give a purpose to their lives, adds Janardhan working as a project co-ordinator with APD. APD along with career building opportunities provides rehabilitation, health,education and counselling facilities. Call 25475861 or 25475165 for more details.
* A ten-day art camp starting April 28, is being organised for deaf and polio-affected children at Hampi, Pattadakallu, Ihole and Kudala Sangama. For details call 9448760744.
