Young autistic artists display paintings

LAHORE: We should never underestimate the talent and the abilities of the special children (Autistic), who are not less than other children and we should learn the lesson of hard work and continuous struggle no matter how difficult times we face.

This was stated by the PML-N President and Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Shahbaz Sharif while viewing the exhibition of the artwork by autistic children at Alhamra Art Council, The Mall’s Permanent Art Gallery on Monday.

Shahbaz Sharif applauded work and dedication of his daughter and the head of the Oasis School for Autism which hosted ‘Aut.art’, art exhibition highlighting the work of young autistic artists. He commented that he was proud of his daughter and has no words to express his appreciation for his illustrious daughter. He paid rich tributes to the teachers and the management of the school for taking up this herculean task of teaching these special children and enabling them to become a productive part of this society. He commented that he was very pleased to see this great display of these children’s talent and commented that he would not only buy some of these art works himself but will also help the school for fund-raising for this great humanitarian and noble cause.

The event was aimed at creating awareness about autism as well as promoting the talents of individuals on the spectrum as a direct medium of alternate communication. “For too long Autism has been discussed and treated like a disease, this narrative needs to be changed, especially in a society like Pakistan where we do not find a lot of spaces which can facilitate differently able individuals and cater to their needs. This is an attempt to showcase how talented these kids are and how exceptional their work is.”, said Ayesha Harun, Founder & CEO Oasis.

Autism awareness is essential in order to create facilities which can help these young differently able individuals excel in life. Oasis has played an instrumental role in assisting these kids achieve their true potential. The idea behind the event was to generate collaborative opportunities between artists and designers centering autistic aesthetics as an ascription.

“Linking it to the broad understanding of “outsider art”, we are planning and strategising alternative displaying spaces across the city in future with higher public access. We believe in creating a softer image of Autism and raise awareness using intervention with art and design”, said, Inaam Zafar, Artist & Director Creative Initiatives Oasis.

The event was a celebration of different expressions and prominent socialites, bloggers and artists came to support the noble cause and praiseworthy efforts. “The response is very encouraging. This art display is of a lot of sentimental value to us and we believe that through this event we’ll be able show the community that being Autistic is not a disadvantage and the system needs to adapt as it will lead to strengthening and enhancing the individual talents of these children”, explained Samrina Anwar, Principal Oasis.

In the future, the school plans to put this art on the map by displaying it across alternative public spaces, using art and design as means to ensure conversations on the topic and spreading awareness about Autism.

While 25th of March was the opening day of this art exhibition, the display will be in place until the 30th of March. Artworks being displayed at the venue include work which has been curated over the last 10 years and is an indication of the acumen of the students.

The event is open to public from 11am to 06pm.