IndonesiaArt for Autism; Every Kid is Special
Cherrybelle’s “Diam-Diam Suka” came out softly from Evelyn Oktavia Lukito’s lips. On the atrium Grand City Surabaya, Friday afternoon April 4th 2014, Evelyn performed live with keyboard by Niko Angga Dinata and violin played by Gary Hillwijaya. It’s true that the performance of the band who called themselves Pniel may be below perfection. Evelyn’s voice went from too hard to too soft during the show. So did Gary’s violin. However, their action was very special for other kids with autism who attended the Art for Autism (AfA) 2014.
Evelyn and Gary did have autism, while Niko was a slow learner. Their performance on the first day of AfA, held by Yayasan Advokasi Sadar Autisme (Autism Awareness Advocating Foundation or ASA) in Surabaya was to contribute in the International Autism Awareness Day, last April 2nd. AfA opened an opportunity for kids with autism to show what they have. “Some parents may be ashamed to introduce their autism kids. But to do that with art, that will be another case,“ Vika Visnu, the chairman of the committee, explained.
In addition to singing and dancing, these kids with autism were also proud to present their painting, sketch and even their own handicraft. In fact the kids were invited to have a lampion painting with Arik S Wartono, a professional artist.
“I have been waiting for this event since April last year, after the first ASA’s event. This is our medium to gather and share with fellow parents who have kids with autism,” said Elly Pakpahan, mother of Josep Siagian (12). ASA determined to keep doing many things to make people aware of autism. That is include how to appreciate their differences from other normal kids.”Because every kids is special,” said Vika.
PHOTOS: HAFIDA INDRAWATI
