Ukrainian refugee children: fostering connection and joy through paint
The Netherlands | Since 2022, the TOOF (Temporary Shelter for Ukrainians on Forthaarsweg) has been hosting weekly painting classes, sparking creativity and connection among its young participants. We are happy to support them with our Royal Talens materials. In the heart of Holten, the TOOF is a place where children from Ukraine come together to explore their artistic talents, and more!
Exploring different mediums
Every Wednesday, the primary school children gather at the TOOF for painting classes. Led by volunteers Frederique Zweers and Francien in ‘t Veld, along with 17-year-old Ukrainian art student Marina Sheveleva, these afternoons are nurturing both creativity and community. They explore various mediums, using acrylic paint, watercolours, pencils, junior artist oil pastels, you name it. This allows the children to find a medium that they enjoy.
More than just painting
Beyond the actual painting, these classes give the children a sense of community and belonging. Laughter fills the room as friendships form and memories are made. Notable moments include the children's exploration of the style of Maria Primatsjenko, a renowned Ukrainian artist. Marina's own artwork, created with materials donated by the Royal Talens foundation, has been printed into postcards. These postcards are sold to fund her continued involvement in the classes. Please contact wildhorst@icloud.com if you are interested in the postcards! (Pictured on the right).
Supporting each other
Supported by organisations such as Welzijnsorganisatie Via Vie Holten, Rotaryclub Bathmen-de Schipbeek, and of course our foundation, these painting classes thrive. Their assistance makes sure that the children have access to high-quality materials and a supportive environment to nurture their creativity.
Supported projects
Throughout 2024, the Royal Talens Foundation supported an art program for 158 young people in Cuernavaca, Mexico, run by WereldOuders and their partner organization Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH) Mexico. For many of these youngsters who have already faced significant difficulties in their young lives, creative expression has become a vital tool for healing and personal growth.
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The Royal Talens Foundation has donated art materials to support a comprehensive two-year community program in Peru. The initiative, run by WereldOuders and their partner organization Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH) Peru, serves 50 families, including 130 children and 150 young adults living in extremely challenging conditions.
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In March 2025, 72 students from IMC Weekendschool in Amsterdam Noord and Zuidoost embarked on a creative journey exploring the theme “The Future of Amsterdammers.” Over four weeks, these 10- to 11-year-olds immersed themselves in the world of visual arts, guided by four contemporary artists and supported by Royal Talens Foundation materials.
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The Royal Talens Foundation has provided art materials to the Palestine Humanitarian Response Centre (PHRC) for their upcoming Children's Hub in Cairo. This initiative aims to offer creative outlets and trauma relief to Palestinian children who have fled Gaza and currently lack access to formal education.
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