ARMM kids undergo art workshop for peace

By Michael Vincent D. Cajulao

Friday 25th of May 2012

ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 25 (PIA) -- “The culture of peace should start with the kids,” Rameer Tawasil, the world-renowned Tausug artist, expounded on the rationale of five-day Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Summer Art Workshop for Peace currently being held in a local hotel here.

The ARMM government, through its ARMM HELPS (Health, Education, Livelihood, Political Reform, and Synergy) Program, came up with the project teaching more than 30 kids aged seven to 15 years old on culture of peace through drawing and painting.

“It is important to instill in the minds of the young ones the essence of peace. Although they may not immediately grasp the idea, the lessons will surely be kept in their subconscious. Sooner or later it will just come out,” Tawasil said.

Tawasil furthered he immediately jumped at the opportunity to teach kids on peace culture by using art as a medium to make them aware of what is happening at an early age.

“This is one of my advocacy, to promote peace through my works. When ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman contacted me and asked me if I can help him, I immediately said yes. I said this is a great opportunity not just to promote peace but also preserve our cultural heritage. Not just the Tausug culture but of Mindanao as a whole," the soft-spoken artist said.

He also added that one of his aims for this activity is to help kids to develop their potentials.

“One of the reasons why I agreed to teach these kids is to help especially those with potential to hone their skills. Truth is, not all of these kids will become artists someday. But some can become cultural workers that will help preserve the Mindanao Culture. Some may become art collectors,” Tawasil pointed.

Tawasil has long resided here in Zamboanga City and has represented not just the city, but the entire country in international art exhibits. He had his solo exhibits in Belgium, Sweden, and just recently, Malaysia. (JPA/MVC-PIA 9, ZBST)