Puresouls Learning Foundation has announced that it will be partnering with Terra Kulture, Lagos, to host the third edition of its annual Autism Day art exhibition. The exhibition is part of events to commemorate World Autism Day 2023 and will open on April 2, 2023, at Terra Kulture, Lagos, and run for a week.
The theme for this year’s exhibition is “Embracing Art Through the Lens of the Differently Abled,” and it will showcase works by children living on the autism spectrum and those with related developmental disorders. The exhibition will feature works by young artists such as Zizah Okeugo, Christine Mike-Nnaji, Daniel Ayomikun Okolie, Oluwadamiloju Yomi-Adeyemi, Preye Azazi, Funom Oti Wenyang, and Chijindu Chukwunomnso Ijomah.
Esther Okeugo, a parent of one of the participating artists, expressed her excitement about the event, saying, “We believe that every child, regardless of their abilities or limitations, has a unique talent that can be nurtured and celebrated.”
Dotun Akande, Founder of the Puresouls Learning Foundation, stated that “At Puresouls, we have grown to appreciate the challenges, authenticity, and individuality of children living with ASDs and their ties to creativity. Having found that art therapy can help stabilise emergency care, develop skills, and keep an optimistic psyche, we are focused on using this to aid the development of their self-esteem, self-awareness, and mental control.”
The exhibition aims to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and promote inclusivity and diversity in society. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in every 100 children worldwide is on the autism spectrum, and a 2014 study found that over 4 million Nigerians may live with autism.
The exhibition will feature a range of inspiring artworks, including paintings and drawings, showcasing the unique perspectives of these young artists. The exhibition is open to the public, and visitors will have the opportunity to purchase some of the artworks on display, with proceeds going towards supporting children on the autism spectrum.
The event has received global support from the media and individuals, with the hope that it will encourage society to embrace and support children with ASDs and their families.
Autism refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, and speech and non-verbal communication. Several factors may influence the development of autism, and sensory sensitivities often accompany it. Early intervention has been shown to lead to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism.
The Puresouls Learning Foundation has been advocating for people living with developmental disabilities, focusing on autism since 2007. The foundation has led activities and programmes advocating for the acceptance, inclusion, education, skill development, and empowerment of those living with autism.
