An exhibition of Paintings by the students of S. Thomas’ Preparatory School, Kollupitiya was held recently at the Art Gallery in Colombo, and I had the honour and great pleasure of being Chief Guest’ and what was to me most impressive, was not only the quality and diversity of the subjects painted, but also the variety of the techniques used by these young artists, with skill and imagination.

There were 287 well framed and hung pictures of students from Grades 6 to 11, and the three teachers, Mrs. Sunderampillai and Messrs Kumara and Seneviratne have certainly understood that Art is not something that can be taught, but helped to grow and express itself through each individual mind and heart.

This is the creative capability that is within all of us, and those who are teachers have the privilege of inspiring, guiding and advising those in their care.

Cizek, an East European philosopher and professor, was deeply interested in the visionary power of the child, and his ability to express visually an idea or concept in a particular form, and colour. To him it was an amazing phenomenon, that he investigated, and studied deeply. "A child is a law unto himself,’ was one of his most famous and oft quoted sayings, and he believed that no one had the right to invade the privacy and wonder of a child’s mind because there is in it, the magical wonder known as the imagination.

In the 287 paintings of the young Thomians, there was often a feeling of confidence and accomplishment. Yes, it was good to have one or more of your own visions or dreams, or one of the events you have known, framed and hung in our great art gallery. The forms were lively and the colours joyous. For me, recalling my own bleak experiences over the years in my own school life, I felt very grateful for the splendid effort of the staff and the enlightened role of Mr. N. Y. Casie Chetty,

The exhibition was a wholehearted effort of the Headmaster, the Art teachers, students, all the staff , and the parents and friends of the school. This was an inaugurl event, and there is no doubt that many such splendid exhibitions will follow.

I was also very depressed with the orderly and disciplined behaviour of all these young students. In a long evening, there was not one instance of the boys being called to order. It certainly said something about the wisdom of the Headmaster who guides these young lives.

Everyone around me, teachers, students and visitors seemed so young, enthusiastic and happy.

The President of the Art Club and its members have also done their part well, to make the Exhibition so successful and enjoyable.

I am a third generation Thomian, and I am very proud to be one.

At this event I was very specially proud of the rows of smart, white clad young Thomians, who were no doubt very proud to belong to S. Thomas’ Preparatory School in Kollupitiya.

Well done, and Thank you all!

Nalini Jayasuriya.