ARTWORKS BY DYSLEXIC CHILDREN FOR 2010 CALENDAR

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- Shell Malaysia has chosen artworks by
dyslexic children for its 2010 corporate calendar in a project to give more
voice to these children and raise better understanding of dyslexia.

Through the project, Shell Malaysia hoped to give greater focus and support
to children with dyslexia, a disability connected with reading and writing, its
chairman, Saw Choo Boon, said at the unveiling ceremony here Wednesday.

Themed “Glimpse of Hope”, the calendar features six colourful works of art
by 23 children aged between six and 17 years old from the Dyslexia Association
of Malaysia.

The art pieces on canvas convey messages of harmony in Malaysia, its
development and beauty both on land and sea, and were created in stages over
four days under the guidance of renowned Malaysian artist Yusof Gajah.

For the past 30 years, Shell Malaysia has used its calendar as a medium to
promote greater awareness of Malaysia’s rich natural and cultural heritage.


"For 2010, we are showcasing another of our national treasures, and by that,
I mean our children. In this case, we chose to spotlight children with dyslexia,
to help address a general lack of awareness and help clear misconceptions
surrounding this learning disability. Dyslexia by no account hampers a person’s
ability to lead and contribute to society," said Saw.

He said the project would also serve as a fund raising avenue for the
association as the original works of art would be auctioned off to the highest
bidders among Shell staff.

Dr Aziz Abu Hassan, the association’s vice-president, said the calendar
project had brought a different perspective to art activity for the children.

"Simple tools like the tubes of oil paint in various colours, getting a feel
of painting on canvas as well as the encouragement given by Shell staff and the
artist, have all inspired the children to do more in art. Most importantly, the
project has given the children a creative outlet and helped them find their
gift," he added.

The association runs three schools for about 70 children in the Klang
Valley.


-- BERNAMA