We visited several primary schools and had a drawing program with the children there. Over here, there are still few public schools where drawing and crafting classes are held. Usually, I can't help but feel that painting/drawing is not so much valued as a content of educational support for children. Because it’s not directly related to people’s living. However, it cannot be denied that there are some abilities that can be cultivated by drawing.
At each school, we got a good cooperation from teachers. The theme of the program is “global peace.” The children were not familiar with the world situation, but they tried deepening their thoughts by imagining the relationships with their own friends and relationships between Cambodia and neighboring countries. We reaffirmed that we humanity want to be friends rather than fighting against each other, and that a peaceful society, a peaceful world is our wish.
The next question is how to express that idea in an artwork. In order to have them solidify their own thoughts, we asked the children what peace is for them, when they feel happy, what color their happy feelings can be expressed in, what or which action peace can be symbolized by etc.
Many children seem to be good at drawing what they see but not good at coming up with creative ideas and expressing them. Because they haven't had much experiences like those. Therefore, we think it was good that we were able to create such an opportunity for as many children as possible this time.
Comentários