From tree climbs to phone swipes, childhood has taken a new turn. Today, many children spend most of their time on phones and iPads, leaving little room for other activities. To change this, a group of artists in Thimphu is advocating art as an alternative to reduce excessive screen time. Over 50 students from the capital participated in the art camp.
A three-day art camp by PADA Art Studio, based in Thimphu, that concluded today, introduced children to basic digital literacy, drawing, painting, and even clay moulding.
The aim was to spark creativity, nurture imagination, and make art more appealing than hours spent on digital devices.
“Instead of playing online, we are showing the kids that we can do something really fun with art, some painting, and drawings. It doesn’t necessarily have to be realistic art, but we can have fun with simple watercolours, and then we can do something with clay, like we can make really interesting stuff with clay. So that is how we are trying to encourage creativity instead of spending all the time on digital platforms,” said Tandin Chophel, Artist.
“I learned a lot about digital literacy and the pros and cons of phone use. I learned more about art here, which I would really like to learn more about. So I think it is important for all ages of people, especially young people like me, to participate in these types of events,” said Chimmy Nealza Doelkar, Druk HSS.
“Besides the arts skills I have learned here, the main thing I have learned is to collaborate and work with others. Usually on weekends, I am just stuck at home, practising basketball as much as I can to get better. This has really been able to get my social skills a little higher,” said Mepham Singye Choeda, Pelkhil HSS.
“We learned about digital literacy. We also learned how to reduce screen time and the effects of excessive screen time,” said Leki Tshering, Lungtenzampa MSS.
“This event or programme has helped me improve my painting and sculpting skills. And it has also taught me a lot more about digital literacy,” said Jigme Kuengyal Dorji, Student, Pelkhil School.
The camp was organised under the SHIFT Campaign, funded by Save the Children Bhutan.
SHIFT is a platform that supports young changemakers to create real impact. The locally led and globally connected initiative has been active in Bhutan for the past few years.
Devika Pradhan
Edited by Sonam Pem
