From December 17 to 26, Hanyang Education in Art + Design Lab (HEAD Lab) held its 2022 Art Education Support Project at the Hanyang University (HYU) Museum. This was an exhibition for disabled youth titled “We all grow to become someone special. “
This exhibition was a gathering to share the achievements of art education for disabled youth that was hosted by Seoul’s 2022 disabled youth art education support project. HEAD Lab has been holding art education projects for disabled youth with the help of Seoul since 2019. Every year, 60 gifted students with a love for art and developmental disabilities receive art education through this project. Yu Heuisun, Researcher of HEAD Lab, explained “We were able to introduce the artwork of our society’s next generation of artists and connect with the public through art”.
The title of the exhibition was inspired by poet Kim Chun-soo’s poem “Flower.” The poem reminds us that we all want to become someone whom everyone remembers, and at the same time we are all special in our own different ways. The title implies that everyone has the potential to become anything they aspire to be and dream of.
Researcher Yu explained that one of the best memories of being part of the program was getting to witness students’ growth in their artwork. She especially recalls what one student wrote at the back of their class art book. “I’ve learned that I can also express my thoughts and feelings through drawing. There is no answer, so keep drawing whatever you want.”
According to researcher Yu, HYU has also played a meaningful role in inspiring the students. She shared one conversation she had with a parent. “Students loved simply strolling around the campus and eating ice cream as much as they did coming to HYU to learn art. I realized that HYU had become an open space where students could feel free to just be themselves. I hope these memories can inspire students’ creativity in the future.”
Unfortunately, it is still uncertain what programs will be held this year since business continuity is decided through an annual public offering. HEAD Lab plans to continue creating a sustainable space in which artists who are left out from art education can follow their dreams. Please look forward to the many more upcoming events of HEAD Lab.