Like every year, 26 February is an important day in the calendar of Apeejay Schools Kolkata, Bhubaneswar and Haldia. It is the day when the Apeejay Anand Children’s Library under the aegis of Apeejay Schools hosts The Anand Art Workshop.
The library has been hosting the workshop since the year 1993 to commemorate the memory of Anand Paul, born on 26 February who left us untimely due to a tragic accident.
This year is the 32nd edition. The workshop is a platform for budding talents to explore the world of imagination.
The theme this year was Life is a Rainbow - जीवन एक इंद्रधनषु . More than 1200 students aged between nine and twelve lit up the earthen vessels and pots with their imaginations.
Children took to their colours and expressed themselves in a variety of forms representing hope in times of darkness and difficulty.
The art work of the children symbolised a renewed sense of optimism, a will to embrace life believing that every dark cloud has a silver lining and that the sun will rise again fostering resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Hosted at the Apeejay House lawns and also in the succinct grounds of Apeejay School in Haldia, and Bhubaneswar, the day witnessed children exploring their creative faculty in the earthen vessels and pots provided by The Anand Library.
The best three selected artworks from all the venues were awarded with certificates of Honour and Gift hampers. All the participants were gifted goodie bags of stationery items.
Mr. Darryl Bloud, CEO of Apeejay Schools, eloquently highlighted the multifaceted benefits of immersing ourselves in art, music, sports, and performing arts during his address. He emphasised how it serves as a therapeutic outlet for children, aiding them in coping with life's challenges and traumas.
He stressed the importance of adults supporting children in their artistic endeavours, providing them with opportunities to engage in creative activities and expressing genuine interest in their pursuits. By nurturing their sense of hope and encouraging their growth and development, we empower children to flourish in various aspects of their lives.