We all need to have art and beauty in our lives
The essential place that culture, art, beauty and creative expression should have in the lives of people who experience deep long term poverty and exclusion together with others in society was one that Joseph Wresinski constantly underlined. He stated that if there is one thing that many in society have never understood or grasped it is that people living in poverty “need to be surrounded by art and beauty in their lives.” A mother who struggles deeply expresses the key role that art and creativity has in her life: "People think it’s enough for poor people to have a roof over their heads and a piece of bread to eat to be happy. Shelter and bread are important, but art is essential. It gives meaning to life and makes you want to continue the struggle."
This summer, ATD volunteers and friends visited four communities who live in deep poverty in the Manila area in the Philippines, in which they have developed strong links with families there through ongoing regular contact throughout the year.
These volunteers and friends joined children, young people and families in these communities for the Festival of Learning. This is a yearly activity where children in poverty participate in art workshops and summer excursions, sharing experiences and learning together. This year’s theme is the "Rights of the Child" in preparation for the 20th anniversary of the Declaration of the Children’s Rights.
The unpredictable weather may have created some havoc in the schedule but this did not dampen the spirits of the families, volunteers, friends and especially the children.
Children created beautiful artworks like paper flowers, picture frames, and animal caps. The older children created their very own "Rights of the Child" Journal. They wrote and drew their own interpretations of their rights.
The highlight of the Festival was making the Tapori Friendship Train using recycled shoe boxes and magazines joining many other children around the world. The Friendship Train is based from a children’s book depicting friendship among children. After reading this book, the children from the different communities collaborated with each other in making their train.
What made this year’s Festival truly special is participation of new friends and groups like the Minstrels of Hope, group of theater dance performers and "Sama Ka Na" (Japanese volunteers).
Till the next Festival of Learning, we hope more new friends can join us!
