CHILDREN'S ART EXHIBITION OPENED AT UDAS CULTURAL CENTER

A total of 58 children aged 6 to 15, with and without disabilities, attended the school.

The drawing and painting classes were led by Tatjana Ratković Bosnić, a Master of Graphics, and Milana Kosanović, a graduate graphic artist. Kosanović describes the exhibition as a traditional event she affectionately calls “joyful” because it showcases children’s creativity.

“This is a traditional event we organize at the end of every year or semester, offering a selection of the best works created so far. In a word, I would call this a joyful event because it presents children’s creativity, and it’s the most beautiful way to promote their talents,” Kosanović told Glas Srpske. She emphasized the diverse age range of children and the various themes they explore, adding that the goal is to nurture their creativity and give them great freedom in their work.

“It’s about inclusive teaching. The children are aged between six and fifteen, so it’s a broad age range, just like the themes we explore. Honestly, along with my colleague Tatjana, I strive to approach each child individually, tailoring the process to each of them to make it easier for them as creators. Our goal is to spark their creativity and ensure they always have freedom in their work. I think this will be evident to visitors when they come to see the exhibition,” Kosanović explained.

The Drawing and Painting School for children with and without disabilities started in 2007. The school was launched as a pilot project at the UDAS Cultural Center by young artists from the Academy of Fine Arts in Banja Luka.

The mission of the school remains unchanged: to foster respect for diversity and promote the rights and abilities of children with and without disabilities based on the concept of human rights.

Through various drawing and painting techniques, students create their own artworks while gaining knowledge in both art and the understanding of diversity, as well as the principles of equal opportunities for children with disabilities.

The school is a space where students of all ages acquire valuable life skills, forge lasting friendships, build self-confidence, and inspire one another in an environment of respect and creativity.

The exhibition will remain open until January 31, 2025. After the winter break, the school will resume its activities in the second semester.

GOALS
The school's primary goal is to provide a safe space where young participants—children with and without disabilities—can express their artistic and creative potential under the guidance of dedicated art teachers.

The school serves as a platform for promotion and an example of an inclusive approach in working with children with disabilities, contributing to a more equitable society.