As an art trainer, artist Manoj Mathasseril feels the subject is not given its due in our education system. Parents want their children to learn art, but mostly to keep them engaged during vacation. Rarely do children get an opportunity to take their passion forward. In most cases, art takes the backseat as they grow up. Manoj began ‘Artrack’, an initiative introducing the world of art to children and parents, to change this.
“My son Bharat is a communication and design student at NID. After he joined the institute, many have started enquiring with me about the course. I understood people are not informed about it and started focusing on that,” says the award-winning artist, who is also a cartoonist and illustrator. He has won the Kerala State Award (cartoon) twice and received special mention Art Maestro Award (painting).
Ask him on the need to train parents, he replies, “for children to pursue their path, parents should be willing to let them follow their heart. If they are unaware of their child’s interest, they wouldn’t be able to help them. Hence, I train parents.” In his opinion, art is a stress-reliever for children, who are burdened with academics. “It will help them build a better social life. Our children turn into anti-socials when they lack a space to vent out stress. If they indulge in an extracurricular activity, it will divert their attention and calm their mind. I am not saying that all children should paint; they can choose music, dance or whatever that suits their interests. If parents keep a track on their child’s taste and create a portfolio of their works, it can help her/him in future, especially when they appear for an interview in art institutions. A lot of courses and specialisations are available in this scenario. Just that our parents are not aware of this. I am trying to bridge this gap,” he explain.
Manoj took it seriously two years ago. Right now, he takes classes in schools and at his home in Chittoor, Kochi. “Children are quite interested in this. But we need to train them consistently. Capsule trainings won’t yield any results,” he opines. “I teach them the basics and introduce various materials used for painting and I ask them to paint. They are so happy to be a part of it,” says Manoj, who learnt Mechanical Engineering. “But, I never gave up art. In fact, my experiences have also encouraged me to start this venture,” he concludes.
