The exhibition of an art project at the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden has raised students' awareness of environmental issues and given them a better understanding of nature. 'An Organic Odyssey' was jointly organised by Sheung Kwai Chung Government Secondary School and the Kadoorie Farm. Students from the school created more than 200 pieces of work with environment-related themes. Natural environment Deborah McAulay Whittle, creative director of Kadoorie Farm said such outdoor projects provided students with the opportunity to get in touch with nature. 'The project helps students get out of the classroom and spend time in a natural environment. It allows them to really feel the environment and express themselves,' she said. A month before the exhibi tion, the farm organised a guided tour for the students to introduce them to its environmental protection work and other local environmental issues. Art teacher Lee Wai-kit said as most school activities and learning took place in the classroom, the project greatly benefited the students. He said it gave students the opportunity to do something outside the school and to display their artistic talents. 'It boosted their confidence and allowed them to express their feelings towards the environment.' It was the second time that the school had worked together with the farm and more students were involved. 'Last time only Form Six and Seven students were involved, but this time students from Form One to Seven took part in the project,' Mr Lee said. Seventh former Karen Yim Kai-lam created a piece called 'Domination'. She said she wanted to raise people's awareness of the domination of technology in our society. 'It seems that humans are controlled by technology and computers,' she said. Mrs Whittle said she was impressed by the students' creations. 'They are very talented at this kind of work. They have many ideas, but to express the ideas in a focused and powerful visual way is difficult,' she said. 'It takes time, and it takes practice.' Mrs Whittle said the Organic Odyssey project might become an annual event. 'We're looking to do more projects like this in the future. Maybe this will become an annual event which involves more schools, not just one.'
