Painter selling children's art to benefit orphanage in Cambodia

Shortly after high school, Ottawa artist Jaya Krishnan discovered he had a natural gift for painting. Now, he has found a way to put that talent and passion to good use.

Originally from Malaysia, Krishnan made Ottawa his home in 1979. The self-taught artist has been producing fine art for more than 30 years and his works have been in galleries around the world.

Earlier this year, Krishnan travelled to Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia. He discovered an orphanage in Cambodia that tugged at his heartstrings and felt a strong desire to help bring joy to the lives of the children and give them an opportunity to express themselves by teaching what he knows best -- art.

"I have been very successful over the years with my career as an artist and I feel that it is time to give back," he said.

By teaching the children, who range in age from five to 16, he hopes to prevent them from getting into trouble on the streets. He also hopes it will help give them the confidence to enjoy a happy and successful life.

"The children are so eager to learn and rarely get a human's touch. A simple thing like a hug means the world to them," says Krishnan.

While in Asia, he not only taught art but also English and took part in other activities, such as soccer and singing.

"Travelling to interesting places around the world for me used to be solely for pleasure, but now I think my travels should have a purpose," says Krishnan.

On his return, he brought back paintings by his students at the Cambodian orphanage, which is near the famous ruins at Angkor Wat. The paintings are mostly watercolours, a handful painted in oil. The paintings are on display until Sunday at Snapdragon Gallery. All money raised from the sale of the paintings will go back to the orphanage.

Krishnan has done his job well. Each painting shows incredible talent and reflects everyday life in Cambodia.

Krishnan plans to keep travelling each year to different parts of Asia to continue teaching art and to help raise funds for underprivileged children and adults.

"I have been fortunate in my life," he says. "Art has found me and I have found art."