Project Pothchola presents 'Ode to Joy'

Having a creative outlet not only helps children express themselves, but also contributes to their mental and social well being. Art has helped the children Project Pothchola works with, in many ways over the years.

Project Pothchola is an initiative started in 2014 to improve the lifestyles of the children of sex workers, by providing them with mental and financial assistance. The kids have learnt to paint and make various unique crafts during their learning sessions every month along with the volunteers of the project.

From November 29 - December 1, the crafts made by the children were exhibited at Drik Gallery. Many artifacts ranging from handmade fans to bookmarks, each with its individual quality, showing the abundance of the potential that these kids possess were on display.

One of the art pieces that stole the spotlight was a little medical camp. The kids wrote what they did during their medical camps on little crafted boats. A blue canvas with white cotton made clouds, yellow canvas depicting a jungle and a frame of animal kingdom which they drew with cartoonist Syed Rashad Imam Tanmoy, brought more colours to the exhibition.

Cartoonist and editor of Unmad, Ahsan Habib, was the chief guest of the event. Melodies of Ghaashphoring Choir and Leemon also entertained the crowd. Most of the artworks were sold out, implying the success of the exhibition.