A creative start

AN unusual art auction took place in Petaling Jaya recently, where members of the public eagerly wrote down their purchase prices for artwork painted by underprivileged and at-risk children.

“Proceeds from the sale will be put into accounts for the young artists, so they can get access to the money once they turn 18,” said StART Society programme director Joshua Lee.

The auction was held in conjuction with the official launch of StART Society, an arts academy formed by marketing company Foetus International.

Aimed at cultivating creativity amongst underprivileged and at-risk children, the organisation started classes in dance, art and music earlier this year with 60 children from four shelter homes and orphanages.

The children presenting a medley of songs at the event.

Foetus International executive chairman Datuk Vincent Lee stressed the need to nurture young talent for the future of the arts industry.

“Aside from being a form of therapy for these children, the arts may also be a vehicle towards a brighter future.

“For all you know, the next Yasmin Ahmad may be sitting here among us!” he said during the launch.

Currently, the academy caters to around 150 children from six organisations including Shelter, Ti-Ratana, Rumah Kids and the Myanmar Refugee Center.

Joshua said that the academy was set up to provide continuous and structured training for less fortunate children.

He added that students had to ‘audition’ before being admitted to the classes.

“Potential students need to have a certain amount of talent, and lots of interest in honing that gift. “We want to represent the real world by not giving them false confidence,” he explained.

The launch saw choir and dance performances by the StART Society children, as well as musical entertainment by guest artistes Ragged Tigers and Miss World Malaysia 2008 Soo Wincci.

Also present were Welfare Department director-general Datuk Meme Zainal and guest of honour Toh Puan Ena Ling. — By PRIYA KULASAGARAN