THE WIP Centre was brought to life with a mix of colours and creativity on August 14, when Thabitha Teens launched its new art studio programme. The studio is more than just an arts space – the programme is designed to help teenagers confront and overcome some of the most difficult social ills plaguing the area.

Also read: Thabitha Care Services celebrate the girl child

The programme, organised by HIV lay counsellors Lee-Sandra Boyce, Marvin Rall, Kelly Brauns and Sumaya Khan, offered visual arts as a source of empowerment and protection. Through painting, drawing and other creative means, the youth can work through and convey the impacts of the social ills that are rife in their community such as abuse, crime, gender-based violence, loss, depression and anxiety.

“Art gives the children a voice. It’s not always easy for children to speak about their pain, but through painting, drawing and making art, they can let us know what they’re feeling and begin the healing process,” said Rall.

The initial event generated a lot of buzz among the Thabitha Teens as they jumped at the chance to pick up paintbrushes, pencils and pastels to put their emotions onto paper. Rall said they were tasked with sketching whatever hardship they face as well as the strength they hold in their hearts. “The children were over the moon to be able to create their piece as well as receive prizes for their works of art,” he said.

Rall added that the day was successful, not only because of the talent that shone through the learners but because of the relief and happiness that the children felt when creating their artworks. The programme demonstrated how art can be utilised as therapy for addressing the issues of transitioning into adulthood.

Rall and the team are calling on the community to assist them to hold more art studio sessions and are requesting donations of art supplies from crayons, to paints and brushes. That would allow more children to participate and benefit from the programme.

To support:

To assist or find out more, email thabitha.admn@gmail.com.

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