The Artist

The

Artist

Challenges do not hinder his creativity

Kshitizz Baniya is a talented and gifted young man. His intricately-detailed artwork and drawings are admired by everyone who catches a glimpse.

At the age of nine, his artistic talent began to bloom at Navjyoti Center, where the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth empower students who have learning challenges and differences.

From birth, Kshitizz has dealt with hearing loss, with only 20 percent hearing in one ear. When he first came to Navjyoti Center, it was difficult to connect with him. Through their continued efforts and through drawing, Sisters and staff learned to effectively communicate with him.

At the Navjyoti Center operated by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in Kathmandu, Nepal, Kshitizz Baniya’s artistic talents have blossomed and serve as a reminder of God’s gifts.

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This collage shows some of Kshitizz’s recent paintings. The Sisters of Kathmandu are pictured at the top right, SCNs Philomina Bading, Aisha Kavalakattu, and Lisa Perekkatt.

Located in Kathmandu, Nepal, under the leadership of Lisa Perekkatt, SCN, 70 children come daily to this dynamic learning center to meet with the caring, highly-qualified faculty.

At the school, Kshitizz slowly developed his talent and

blossomed into the artist he is today. In addition to the program at Navjyoti, he attended art class once a week where he learned sketching and how to draw faces.

Most of his drawings are things that interest him. At one time he was drawing detailed replica airplanes from different countries. Then he began drawing birds, fruits, and vegetables. Now he is drawing scenic landscapes of Nepal and India.

“He has such a loving spirit,” says Sarah Geier, SCN. “It made me very joyful to see that he was being recognized for his individual talent and to see how much pride he takes in his art.”

She had the opportunity to meet with him while visiting Nepal last Spring. Sister Sarah marvels at how hard he works at his art as well as the packaging he makes to sell his artwork.

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All that Kshitizz embodies is ultimately the goal of Navjyoti Center – to equip the students with the tools, skills, and confidence they need to become independent learners, to succeed in school, find fulfilling careers and lead balanced lives. The Sisters continue to nurture his talent, so that it may support him in the future. “On a few occasions we have found professional short-term assistance for cultivating his drawing and painting. However, it is through his own efforts that he has come this far,” says Sister Lisa.

The holistic experience of Navjyoti Center produces trust and builds self-confidence. Sisters embrace students in a nurturing school environment where each child feels accepted and supported. “From the moment students get off the school bus in the morning, the children love to have each other's companionship,” says Sister Lisa. “Every student at Navjyoti Center is breaking down their own barriers.”

The days at Navjyoti Center begin with yoga and prayer. Each child has a curriculum designed individually for their own learning style. Sister Lisa and her staff use academic, behavioral, and social strategies blended into a program comprehensively designed to educate the whole student.

Kshitizz excels at most things he tries. He is a gifted athlete, taking home gold medals for the school in sporting events. He enjoys dancing. With minimal hearing, he is able to concentrate and truly listen to music. Recently he learned cycling and is making crafts alongside his artwork. “Whatever he takes on, he is perfect at it,” says Sister Lisa.

The happiness and well-being of every child of God is at the heart of the mission of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. With each stroke of his pen or brush, Kshitizz helps complete a picture where a future of dignity and equality is realized.

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