Impact is like a pebble dropped into still water. There is no predicting how much of a ripple effect one can create by starting one project or initiative. When Lluvia Health Organisation conceived the idea of a day of Arts and Play for hospitalised children, our focus was on creating a healing environment that goes beyond medicine.
By curating activities such as building blocks, painting, and pottery for the kids, we hoped to provide joy and emotional support to these young patients and provide them a chance to explore their creativity in an environment that does not necessarily support it. It was a time for them to momentarily escape the restrictions of their illnesses and embrace freedom through arts and play. But this escape is never just theirs to experience. Healing through art is a shared experience, and every painting, every pot molded, and every puzzle completed is a gift not just to the kids but to their caregivers and the facilitators.
Daberechukwu Agomuo is a visual artist studying at the University of Lagos. For Daberechukwu, she has found new meaning in her work as an artist. As a painter, Daberechukwu’s work is deeply influenced by themes of womanhood, childhood memories, and the beauty in life’s everyday moments. Through her art, Daberechukwu aims to allow the world to experience her perspective, reminding viewers of the little joys that make life extraordinary.
Discovering the power of her guidance as an art teacher to help in healing is a gift Daberechukwu is really grateful for. For five years, Daberechukwu has been using art to bring joy and comfort to those who need it the most, yet every experience is new, and the fulfillment she gets from sharing art with others in their most vulnerable states does not diminish as the years go by.
When asked about her day of arts and play with the children at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, she said, “It was such a heartwarming and fulfilling experience, and I absolutely loved being part of the art therapy sessions with them. I’ve realized how much I’m drawn to this kind of work, and I’d love the chance to continue. If there are any future opportunities to work with more children through art therapy, I’d be more than happy to help. I truly believe this kind of therapy has a meaningful impact, and I would love to keep contributing however I can.”
