You may have read this quote by Pablo Picasso: “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” The eminent artist understood art’s critical role in the lives of children. We were thrilled that the students of Shankarwadi Mumbai Public School, in Jogeshwari had adopted Picasso’s philosophy. Facilitated by Saturday Art Class, a Mumbai-based non-profit organisation, the school inaugurated a special Art and Craft Room on September 27. Educators from the organisation routinely conduct sessions here. Curious to know more, this writer decided to drop by.

Four-walled canvas

What immediately strikes us is how every element is linked with art. Hexagonal tables are surrounded by walls splashed with colour. A portion of each wall is dedicated to an artist and elements representing their respective styles, be it nature elements often found in Amrita Sher-Gil’s paintings, or the bold symbols of street art in the works of Keith Haring. In one corner, we spot a splendid pink and green bird, and in another, motifs of Gond art.