Planting Seeds of Kindness through Art: a day at Wonderland Help Center in Tiruvannamalai, India.
In the heart of Tiruvannamalai, India, lies the Wonderland Help Center, an holistic center that – together with Yoga and Meditation – offers activities for the local community and kids with social disadvantages. In January 2024, when I was living in India, walking my spiritual journey in Tiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu, India), it was here that I had the privilege of co-creating and offering a workshop of expressive arts alongside two talented fellow artists and friends. Together, we brought a palette of colors, creativity, and joy into the lives of these children, many of whom had never encountered painting before.
Introducing the world of color.
The workshop began with an introduction to the enchanting world of painting. We demonstrated how to mix colors in a simple way, encouraging the children to see the infinite possibilities that could emerge from blending primary hues. Using techniques like blowing through straws to direct liquid colors on the canvas, we revealed that art can be as playful as it is expressive.
What struck me most was the awe and attentiveness in the children’s eyes. They watched us present brushes, sponges, and colors with a quiet reverence, soaking in every detail. The room buzzed with curiosity and a palpable sense of wonder.
The gift of expression.
When we finally placed canvases and paints in the hands of each child, the joy was immeasurable. Yet, there was also a tender timidity—many of them hesitated, as if reluctant to use or waste these precious materials that were completely new to them. Some treated the canvas as if it were sacred, applying their strokes with careful precision. Others experimented boldly, letting their creativity flow unrestrained.
As the workshop unfolded, the room transformed into a vibrant tapestry of color, energy, and smiles. It was a privilege to witness these young creators discovering a new means of expression, their inner worlds spilling onto the canvases with each brushstroke and splash of paint.
A heartfelt thank you.
At the end of the session, the children surprised us with a gesture that left us deeply moved. Following a beautiful Indian tradition, they adorned us with flower crowns and offered fruits as tokens of gratitude. It was a humbling moment—a reminder of the profound reciprocity that comes with acts of kindness.
Spreading Seeds of Kindness.
This workshop was part of my itinerant project, Seeds of Kindness. Through this initiative, I strive to bring expressive arts and meditation workshops to communities across the globe, often in a pro-bono capacity. Whether working with children, adults, or marginalized groups, my goal is to sow small but meaningful seeds of creativity, healing and connection.
If there is one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the power of art lies not just in creating, but in the shared moments of wonder it inspires. To the children of Wonderland Help Center, thank you for reminding me of this truth — and for showing me that kindness, like art, knows no boundaries.
Would you like to host or co-create a Workshop?
If you would like to collaborate or host a Seeds of Kindness workshop in your community, let’s connect and continue to spread creativity and compassion.
Feel free to reach out to me at spaziocalma.hello@gmail.com to discuss opportunities and details.
