(From left) Kai Qing, Ang, Looi and Maya at the exhibition.
BRANDEN Lim, 14, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Type 1), discovered freedom when painting water-themed portraits.And in doing so, transformed his limitation into strength.
Branden started his artistic journey when his parents, Yap Sook Yee and Edmund Lim, provided him with painting tools and a canvas that enabled him to identify his strengths.
(Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a genetic condition that causes worsening muscle weakness.)
“My advice to all parents is to always create a ‘chance’ – you’ll be amazed at their talents and strengths when they are open to the slightest opportunity in their lives,” said Yap, 50.
“Our children – no matter how different – still can contribute to the community.”
Branden’s works, which revolve around oceans and water, are on display at the “Painting Dreams Alive” charity exhibition at Heritouch Gallery in One World Hotel, Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya in Selangor.
Paintings by Kai Qing. The artwork featuring a beach scene (right) is by Shana Lim, 19.
He said nature inspired him to envision being underwater when he was painting the portraits.
Similar inspiration was found by Leong Kai Qing, a 17-year-old artist who has been diagnosed with autism.
Her mermaid series artworks are for sale at the exhibition.
“My daughter’s mermaid series reflects her close relationship with her family.
“Its exclusivity was enhanced when Shinju Pearls contributed semi-precious stones to Kai Qing to incorporate in her art,” said the teenager’s mother, Ang Swee Ching.
Kai Qing has also painted a portrait of her favourite singer, Shakira.
Paintings by Eunice Chia, 23, who also participated in last year’s exhibition.
Besides creating art, the young girl enjoys singing, swimming and drawing.
The works of 20 special needs artists are for sale at the week-long exhibition that offers a platform for the artists to be recognised for their talents.
“These children’s art needs to be appreciated.
“To make it a true achievement, they need an audience and recognition to ensure it doesn’t go unnoticed,” said Yap.
Following positive response to last year’s Heritouch Gallery charity programme, “Painting Dreams Alive” is back for a second iteration.
The week-long exhibition at Heritouch Gallery ends on Sept 28.
Heritouch Gallery founder Richie Chai said he saw the need to do more in organising such shows when he met special-needs artists.
“When customers purchase the artwork, 60% goes to the artist, 40% goes to the establishment fund for Heritouch’s art school in GMBB, Kuala Lumpur.
“At the moment, we lack resources for good art teachers, which is why we need to raise funds through this charity programme.
“These funds can help to establish an art school with more art teachers, to create more artists,” he added.
“It all starts with a piece of canvas and simple painting tools for these children to express themselves in colours,” said the exhibition’s project lead Li Hui.
Malaysia’s renowned fashion designer, Melinda Looi and her daughter Maya Luebbert, 16, made an appearance to support the children’s artworks at the exhibition.
Branden with Lim (left) and Chai.
“I am very touched to see parents who are supportive of their children,” said Looi.
“We all have challenges in our lives but the challenge here is to break down misconceptions and barriers in order to be accepted into the community,” said Yap.
Nine of the artists were present with their families at the launch.
The public exhibition is open from 11am to 6pm daily until Saturday.
To schedule a visit, call 012-859 6968 or visit paintingdreamsalive.com/exhibition/#reservation-form
