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"Empowering children with autism through the transformative power of art"
Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
Celebrating Connections and Learning at Sao Mai & Gia An: My Journey with ASD Advocacy
April 02, 2023
Visiting Sao Mai and Gia An, I was struck by how collaborative and supportive everyone was. Their openness to connect, despite our differences, created a bridge of understanding and mutual respect. What stood out most was their courage, not just in expressing themselves but in embracing their uniqueness unapologetically. They have this remarkable ability to face challenges head-on while staying true to who they are. They didn’t conform to societal expectations or norms, they celebrated their individuality, and through that, they became extraordinary.
Each piece of art I saw was a glimpse into their souls, a reflection of their personal interests, hidden thoughts, and unspoken dreams. What seemed like simple strokes or unconventional depictions were, in fact, expressions of boundless imagination and intricate thoughts. I had the privilege of engaging in heartfelt conversations that unraveled the profound depth behind their creations. One common misconception held against individuals on the spectrum is that they do not care about the world. In fact, they care a lot. They engage with their surroundings in a way that only their souls can understand.
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The way these children view the world is truly unique. In their universe, birds don't need to fly, clowns can transform into Santa Claus, and every creation tells a story without needing to conform to traditional expectations. Through their stories, artwork, and conversations, I learned an invaluable lesson: life doesn’t need to fit into a mold. Being different isn’t just okay, it’s beautiful. It brings diversity that enriches the tapestry of life and teaches us to embrace not just others but also ourselves. Their authenticity, the courage to live as themselves and express their truths, was inspiring.
At Gia An, I found the same spirit of freedom and self-expression. It’s a place where energy and creativity flow freely, a space where children express themselves in ways that might seem unconventional at first, yet are laden with profound depth. Take, for example, the simple act of decorating a cake. To many, it’s just about adding frosting in neat swirls or making sure everything is symmetrical. But here, the children make deliberate choices, some choosing to leave certain parts uncovered, like the frosting on the cake, reasoning that it might smear on the plate, or it might touch their face. These decisions seem trivial to an outsider, but they are reflections of a deeper, more thoughtful process. It’s a subtle demonstration of how they observe the world, acknowledging that even the smallest actions have consequences, and that’s not something they take lightly.
What appears to be a simple, whimsical act of coloring or decorating is, in fact, an intricate negotiation with the world around them. They don’t just color within the lines because that’s the expected way; instead, they create their own rules, making their art a true reflection of who they are, not who they are expected to be. They are deeply observant, often seeing things that go beyond the surface level, connecting dots in ways that challenge conventional thinking.
The children don't conform to societal expectations of how things should be done. They express their truth through their art, showing us that there’s a space for unconventional perspectives, for interpretations that break free from societal constraints. In doing so, they show us how much more there is to a simple act, how much more there is to life when we are unafraid to be ourselves.
I left Sao Mai and Gia An feeling a profound sense of hope and gratitude. It is a reminder that art is not just about the final product—it’s about the process, the journey, and the heart behind every choice made. I learned to see the world through their eyes, where every color, every idea, and every emotion has its place. It’s a space where individuality is celebrated, where differences are not just accepted but revered. And in this space, every child, every artist, is teaching us that life doesn't need to follow a set of prescribed rules to be meaningful. In fact, the most beautiful things often come from the freedom to break them. Their resilience, joy, and authenticity reminded me to live more intentionally, to cherish every moment, and to continue smiling, breathing, and hoping.
To the children of Sao Mai and Gia An: thank you for reminding me of the power of individuality and the importance of being seen, heard, and celebrated for who we truly are. You are authentic. You are extraordinary. And you are loved.