Loved ones of people killed in Lapu-Lapu Day Tragedy find temporary escape from pain through art

The intimate healing art workshop for families affected by the April 26 Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy was held in Surrey, B. C. , led by Filipino Canadian artist Chito Maravilla. Alejandro Samper, who lost both parents and a sister in the tragedy, created a painting of a bird using the colors of the Colombian flag to symbolize hope and freedom. Maravilla encouraged participants to express their emotions through art as a means of coping with grief.

The upcoming Flight: A Healing Art Workshop and Exhibit on November 30 will showcase attendees' paintings at the Surrey Public Library. Samper founded the Samper-Caicedo Legacy Society to provide ongoing support for victims of traumatic events. He expressed his commitment to carrying forward his family's legacy and love. The workshop serves as a therapeutic outlet, offering a momentary escape from pain. Events like this highlight the importance of creative expression in the healing process.