Art can be the most incredible tool for inclusivity. The Kolkata Centre for Creativity imbibed this philosophy into its latest painting workshop, Colouring a Palm Grove, on April 13 as part of its World Autism Awareness Month celebrations. The event was especially designed to help individuals on the autism spectrum express themselves through art.
“KCC was hosting an exhibition based on the works of KG Subramanyan. Given how he endorsed art for children, we wanted to connect his work with a colouring practice for kids with special needs,” said Arkaprava Bose, researcher and archivist for Emami Art. This thought germinated into the workshop, where children on the spectrum were encouraged to engage with portraits of nature, and create paintings inspired by Subramanyan’s art.
Students of Behala Naba Proyas immersed in their drawings as their art teacher, Shampa Sengupta, looks on. (Right) Some paintings by the students. ‘It is a privilege for our children to have their work displayed at a prestigious gallery and be bestowed the title of ‘artist’,’ Sengupta said.
The workshop encouraged the children to let their imagination run free and give shape to their thoughts with crayons on paper. Collaborative spirit was an integral part of the event as it brought together children from four institutes — Autism Society of West Bengal, Behala Naba Proyas, Manovikas Kendra, and ICanFlyy.
“These children go through a lot of mental and physical turbulence and have to deal with bouts of anxiety. A free and open colouring activity provides them with space for contemplation and peace. Studies have shown that it can be very therapeutic too,” Bose said.
The purpose of the workshop was to let the kids’ imagination run free. While (left) Behala Naba Proyas’s Anas Rayyan made an impromptu sketch of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Swastik Chattopadhyay of Manovikas Kendra proudly presented his painting titled ‘The Idiot Box’.
More than 10 children participated in the workshop and the gallery at KCC showcased 45 paintings by 38 children on the spectrum. The event was a part of a three-day initiative titled ‘Celebrating Blue’ in partnership with Access for All, where KCC put together several events between April 11 and 13 to deepen Kolkata’s understanding of autism and promote inclusivity.
The result of the workshop was a landscape installation with cutouts of palm trees and undulated lands.
Ayan Mallik had brought his son, Aryan, a student of Autism Society of West Bengal, with the hopes of helping him channelise his creative energy. He explained how autism often prevented children from engaging in social activities because of sensory problems. “Painting has really helped my son explore his playful side, and the act of holding a crayon helps him develop his concentration. He is engaged, and joyful,” Ayan said.
The art exhibition was curated by Siddhant Shah, founder of Access for All. ‘Working with these children is such a pleasure, and the goal is to spread awareness around inclusivity,’ he said.
Aryan’s classmate, Namrata Roy, had a similar experience. “The best part about this workshop was how it gave our children a chance to socialise. Namrata’s art shows how excited she is to have people around,” said her mother, Sucharita.
“KCC and Emami have always been particular about inclusivity. We feel that parents and caregivers are more open to talk about children’s special needs today, and are trying to do more such events to further their skillsets,” said KCC chairperson Richa Agarwal.
