I have decided to volunteer my time and skills to The Art Refuge Programme. In December 2012 I am going to Kathmandu to provide the art therapy treatment for Tibetan refugee children.
Every year significant numbers of refugees leave Tibet, crossing the Himalayas into Nepal then India. Many of these are children who arrive emotionally and physically exhausted, and exhibit signs of post traumatic stress. They have undertaken a dangerous journey and often left behind their families, not knowing if they will ever be able to return.
The Art Refuge Programme helps refugee children during their transition through Nepal and their passage into India. Beyond the obvious such as food, shelter and medicine The Art Refuge Programme provides children with a protected time and space in which they can play and make art.
The process of art making allows for emotional of difficulties experienced during their journey, even the brutality and repression they often suffered in Tibet.
For these children, whose life have been disrupted, playing and making art is an essential therapeutic activity which can help to reduce stress and establish normalcy.
More information about Art Refuge UK you can find on http://www.artrefuge.org.uk/.
If you are interested in helping me to raise funds for the programme you can make a purchase of a beautiful handmade felt pieces, paintings or simply make a donation!
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/GosiaLawnicki
All donations are very welcome!
