A boost to self-expression and confidence

With the motive of bringing about smiles and self-expression among kids, Vision Care, held a funfilled, exciting, and highly creative art contest at its state-of-the-art head office in commemoration of the World's Children Day celebrated on the 1st October around the world.

Themed 'Kids & Colours', the junior art contest attracted hundreds of kids below age 12 with participation across the island.

The final contest shortlisted and recognized 50 children and whether a winner or not everyone were given attractive gifts and valuable certificates including cash prizes for the top 10 best art pieces. Somaratne Dissanayake, film producer/director and Dr. Dilrukshi Ruberu, consultant pediatrician were the chief guests for the grand finale.

The chief guest for the contest launch was Prof. M R Podinilame - Dean, Faculty of Visual Arts- University of The Visual & Performing Arts and the panel of judges included artist Senananda Indrajith Merthis who is a veteran in the industry, and Deeptha Kumara and Sathsara Ilangasinghe who are lecturers from the same university.

Vision Care Chairman, Dasantha Fonseka said, ''Kids indulging themselves in arts is a great learning experience as it helps boost self-expression and confidence amongst many other benefits.

We were surprised to see such higher level of enthusiasm and participation.''

Arts for children is more than just diving into those finger paints and making a beautiful picture to hang on the fridge.It helps children develop on many fundamental levels - they learn to think creatively with an open mind, collaborate with other children, observe and describe, analyze and interpret, express feelings with or without words, practice language and vocabulary of the arts, build confidence and feel pride in his or her original artistic creations.