For passionate artist Laila Demashqieh, Program Coordinator of START Initiative in Jordan, Art is more than just a mere form of expression; it is a force of healing, building, and empowering.

JOCR8: Tell us a little about START, and how you first got involved?

LD: START is a unique initiative that links between child development and fine arts education. It was launched in March 2007 as an outreach program for Art Dubai.
We basically wanted to bring art into the lives of under-privileged children around the Middle East; especially those in refugee camps, orphanages, and children with special needs.

We also encourage local artists and art students to become volunteers with us, providing them with a platform to engage in their communities.

Over the last three years, we have carried out many public education programmes, and art workshops. To achieve this, we try to create partnerships with galleries and institutions, some of which are The National Museum of Beirut, and British Museum exhibition 'Word into Art'. Now we're looking into expanding our work to include Syria and India among other countries around the globe.

JOCR8: How did you first come to know the Initiative and get involved?

LD: It all started with a workshop that I was asked to conduct for the volunteers on print-making, during which I learned more about the program and was greatly enthusiastic.
Helping others through art has been a life-long dream of mine, and I realized then that START was an exceptional opportunity to fulfill that dream and bring the program to Jordan.

JOCR8: In July 2009 you completed your first "Art Summer School" in Jordan; could you tell us more about it?

LD: It was organized in collaboration with SOS, UNRWA and the Madrasati Initiative. three weeks and (...) included three different themes: "How can I Change the World", "Mapping and Journey", and "My Heritage and Traditions". We (...) invited artists from Australia, the UK and the USA to volunteer with us.

We concluded the project with an exhibition held for the parents and the public. It was a lovely gathering and the kids were very proud of themselves.

JOCR8: Any inspiring stories to share from your time during the "Art Summer School"?

LD: We went to one school to carry out a few workshops, and the conditions there were really terrible; not much space to fit all the kids and it was extremely unsanitary.We could not do anything inside the school, so instead, we got permission to let the kids draw on the school walls outside, and the outcome was incredible. They turned the shabby, grim walls into a piece of art, and just brought life to the whole school, not to mention that kids from outside were coming to take part in the event. We started with 30 kids and ended up with around 70 kids.
I guess this as an example of how even though things may not always go as planned, you still can come up with something special and sometimes far more creative.

JOCR8: What impact this experience had on you. How do you think it changed you?

LD: START has been by all means an enlightening and life changing experience. I learnt how to be more patient, more hopeful, even when things are not looking up.

Handling such a job can get pretty frustrating, but when I see the sparkle in these kids eyes, I get a great sense of accomplishment that gives me strength. They give me strength and inspire me; even the way I express myself through my art changed thanks to them. It's always good to get to do something you love.

JOCR8: What exactly is "START Residency"?

LD: It's a project that we've been working on for the past year, the purpose of which is to invite international artists, filmmakers, sculptors, etc... to volunteer with us here in Jordan. We have prepared a lovely three-bedroom apartment with a spacious art studio in Jabal Al-Lweibdeh; the heart and soul of the art community in Amman.

In return, the artists can either organize workshops or donate some of their work. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience Amman in one of its oldest neighborhoods, meet local artists, and support a good Cause.

So, how can interested people get involved?
We are always in need of inspiring artists and committed individuals. Anyone interested can contact us, and we'd be more than glad to have them.

JOCR8: Anything else you'd like to add?

LD: Actually I'd like to share another story to emphasize the changing power of art.
In one of our workshops in SOS, I met a young boy called Nawwaf. He was very stubborn and showed a lot of indifference but I could tell he had great talent so I tried working with him to help him explore his talent, but had a lot of trouble with his attitude.
Later on, we came back, and I got to see him again. He had a huge file in his hands, full of wonderful drawings, and was showing me his work. Apparently, after our first workshop, he became really good, and participated in several local and international art competitions.