Art beyond handicap

CEBU, Philippines – A unique on-the-spot visual arts competition marked the start of the 37th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week in Cebu on Monday, July 20.

More than 20 students coming from various Special Education Centers in the province participated in the event held at the Paseo Marina and Paseo Ciudad intersection of the Ayala Center Cebu, titled "On-the-Spot Drawing Contest for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)."

Spearheaded by the Organization of Rehabilitative Advocates for Inclusion (ORAI) with the support of the Ayala Center Cebu, the event has become an annual tradition which ORAI has been doing for more than 15 years.

This year, students aged10 to 26 years old participated in the event, creating different artworks that reflect their respective artists' views on the theme of this year's PWDs' week observance: "Health and wellness opportunities for persons with disabilities toward an inclusive development for all."

Last year, an art exhibit showcased the works of a young girl with Down's Syndrome, together with art event organized by ORAI, also took place in the city.