Introduction

“My Future My Will”: International Children’s Paintings Exhibition

After birth, children begin to explore and try to understand the world by placing the “self” at the foundation of perception. At first, they cannot draw the boundary between themselves and the world. Then gradually, they learn to observe and describe the world from the perspective of “me”. Even if they can’t express themselves in words clearly, they will draw things whenever they pick up pens. During their growth, they learn to draw objects by using signs and express their feelings with brushes. They represent the real “self” by painting in their own way as kids. 

Children’s paintings are amazing. When talking about the primitive paintings created by primitive humans such as those vivid frescos and exquisite pottery paintings, people can’t help making a reference to children’s paintings. It is also impossible not to mention the influence of children’s paintings to the modern paintings created in the prosperous period of civilization. These three types of paintings represent the world with abstract signs, portray objects in a plain artistic language and show the inner emotions with bright colors. Picasso once said, “It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child.” This master of modern art understood the essence of painting: to “observe” like a child since a child would draw things directly from what he/she sees. Thus, children’s paintings are extremely natural.

Therefore, we stage this exhibition of children’s paintings with great awe. This exhibition, beginning with “me” and reappearing frequently throughout, demonstrates the spontaneous expression of many children as they use the brush to represent the world through their eyes. 

This exhibition is dedicated to children who are the future of mankind and to every adult who is willing to understand children.