Inclusion and representation are important, and recent efforts by Singapore have proven that, particularly for special education youths.
The latest example is the fun packs that are distributed every year for the Singapore National Day Parade. For the first time ever, young students who are differently abled are behind the various designs of the packs. A variety of different designs will be easily displayed on tote bags. Inside the tote bags, a booklet featuring the special education students’ artwork will be included. Other items that can be found inside the fun packs include apparel, snacks made right in Singapore, shakers, and other items.
The organizer for the festive day said that the items were pared down to a minimum so there wouldn’t be too much waste. And in spite of many of the items having wrappers, the tote bag also includes a trash bag so there won’t be any temptation to litter. Everyone who picks up a tote bag prior to the parade will have the opportunity to collect their own trash. About a quarter million of the fun packs will be available prior to the parade.
One special education student drew representations of several distinctive members of the Singaporean city skyline. He said that he felt those are the kinds of sites that represent the country best, and expressed excitement at the notion of his family and friends carrying around tote bags with his art proudly displayed on them.
Another tote bag design features messages in sign language, braille, and other languages, highlighting the different ways people who are differently abled communicate. Another design features a bright representation of Singapore’s very own merlion figure, which functions as a sort of mascot for the country. Each of the tote bag designs are as distinctive and special as the children who created them, showing everyone that though these young students are differently abled, they still have much to contribute and say about the place where they live.
Art education can start at any age. From young children who have not yet entered school to retired citizens looking to fill the time in their days with something enriching, art can be a viable pastime no matter who you are or where you come from. Think about signing up a loved one — or yourself — for a valuable art class via SGArtClass.com. Teachers responsible for the classes have experience leading artists of all ages and abilities, meaning your child or grandparent will be engaged and entertained for the duration of the session. Whether it’s a class on watercolor painting or comic drawing, who knows? You loved one might discover a new passion or talent and choose to pursue the hobby of art long after their class has ended. Visit SGArtClass.com today to browse the many different classes that are now available for enrollment.
To read more about the inclusion of the special education artists’ designs in this year’s fun packs, go to https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/ndp-funpacks-feature-art-by-special-education-students.