Glebe artist uses craft to help Cambodian orphans.
Jaya Krishna has spent several months volunteering at an orphanage teaching art to children in Cambodia
Eddie Rwema
This fall has been a busy time for Glebe-based artist Jaya Krishnan as he mobilizes funds to support an orphanage in Cambodia through art.
Over the past two years, Krishnan spent several months volunteering in Cambodia teaching children at the orphanage how to paint. The orphanage itself was founded by Leng, a young boy who lived through the horrors of Khmer Rough regime, including his own father’s murder.
When he returned from Cambodia early this year, Krishnan brought with him more than 200 pieces of artwork painted by children and now the artist has partnered with Irene’s Pub in the Glebe to exhibit the children’s work.
The proceeds from the sale of the works will go towards helping the Orphans and Disabled Arts Association and 20 per cent of the funds raised from the sale of each painting will go towards each individual child artist’s own savings.
Originally from Malaysia, Krishnan moved to Ottawa in 1979. The self-taught artist has been producing fine art for more than 30 years and his works have been in galleries around the world.
By teaching the children, who range in age from six to 17, he hopes to prevent them from getting into trouble on the streets. He also hopes it will help give them the confidence to enjoy a happy and successful life.
Krishnan said he was moved by the resilience of the kids following the terrible history of their country.
He said art changed his life and hopes transferring his knowledge to the children will improve their lives.
“The only thing I can give out from me is not tonnes of money, but my art,” said Krishnan. “I wanted to share my art with whoever wanted to learn art. It was given to me and I feel I am at the point in my life where I think I need to give it back.”
Last year, Krishnan organized a similar fundraiser that raised more than $3,000 which was used to build bunk beds at the orphanage, as well as help fund the renovation of the centre’s kitchen.
He said the orphanage helps children learn at an early age to help themselves.
“You have to work hard yourself, and this is what we try to encourage the kids.” said Krishnan.
He said he has struggled to be where he is and expects them to do the same to succeed in life.
“My success has been out of severance, dedication and being passionate about what you are doing,” he said.