fafu fair fun

Around a week and a half ago, when I was sitting with my son Adel where he was showing me his newest drawings, he asked me if he could have an exhibition – an art exhibition. The first answer that came to my mind was: „Sorry son, but that is a crazy idea. Maybe some other time“. But before I managed to get the words out of my mouth I thought again and said to myself: „Why not now?“. It´s really not that complicated. My son does all the artwork and installations and all I have to do is invite people (talk), clean the house, and make some tea (all of which I do several times a week anyway). So I smiled to him and said: „That´s a great idea, let´s do it!“.

So the following days went to planning the event. My son used all his spare time making new artwork and hung each finished piece on the wall as he went on making new creations. When he had piled up a sufficient amount of artwork, I asked him how he wanted the exhibition to carry out. Then I posted an event on Facebook where I invited selected friends and family members. I also stressed that according to the artist´s orders, none of the artwork would be for sale, but that he would be more than happy to discuss his work, how it came about and what it meant to him. The few family members who do not use Facebook I called by phone and invited to come. Needless to say, everyone was super excited and honored to be invited to Adel´s first art exhibition.

For Adel, it has been like waiting for Christmas. Almost every night before he goes to bed he tells me how happy and excited he is to be having the exhibition and he´s putting even more ambition into his work now. It doesn´t take much effort to make a 5 year old believe in his worth and talent! Plus it´s a great venue to get together with friends and family, which in our busy society happens too rarely.

So my advice: Whatever crazy idea your kids come up with, think about all the reasons why you should say yes before you start thinking about the reasons for saying no. Then give your answer. Who knows, you might surprise yourself (and your kids)!

Thorunn

Photo credit: Adel Kathir, 5 years old