Merck, a leading science and technology company, in partnership with Kochi Biennale Foundation, launched 'Art By Children' (ABC) outreach programme to spread the message of healthy living through the medium of art.

Supported by the Department of General Education, Government of Kerala; the initiative was inaugurated by Master Anujath Sindhu Vinaylal, who had received the Rashtrapati Puraskar 2016, conferred by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, from President of India on Children’s Day at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Talking about the initiative, Anand Nambiar, MD, Merck India said, “Art enhances creativity, which is crucial for innovation and adaptation. Our purpose in this outreach program is to spread the message of healthy living through the medium of art, while inspiring creative thinking. Children are inspired to visualise a healthy future and teachers are engaged in discussions on health living. We are confident that the talented team under the guidance of Riyas Komu and Manu Jose will give impetus to a new vision in art education in the country. Through this programmewe aim to bring about a new dimension in creative thinking, and in the understanding of healthy living and social values.”

Riyas Komu, director of Programmes, Kochi Muziris Biennale, said, "For the thousands of children that visit the Biennale, it had already become a window to the world of contemporary art. Going forward, the Kochi Biennale Foundation envisions a major role to play in the changing paradigm of art education in India that will involve art educators, children, teachers, and institutions as well."

The ABC outreach powered by Merck launched in November 2016 will continue until March 2017. Innovative workshops run by visual artists and theatre experts who specialise in children’s programming will engage children in an exciting new model of learning and expression. Children will be encouraged create art around the theme of healthy living.

Teacher training sessions will cover topics from sensitivity, health, gender and identity, to using art and theatre as a means to instil habits for a healthy living and high social values. Merck supported parent workshops will also be conducted in interested schools where experts will address the parents on child health and development.