The Beginning of a Journey
As a parent, discovering that your child has Down Syndrome can be overwhelming. My husband and I faced countless challenges and uncertainties. However, we were determined to provide Dhriti with a life filled with joy, opportunity, and fulfillment. Early on, we noticed that Dhriti found immense happiness and expression through art. Whether it was painting, drawing, or crafting, art became her language, her way of connecting with the world. This realization was the seed that would eventually grow into Tickle yoUr Art.
The Birth of Tickle yoUr Art
Tickle yoUr Art, affectionately named after Dhriti’s nickname, “Tickle,” was born out of a desire to celebrate her love for art and to create something meaningful that could also benefit others. We recognized that there were many individuals like Dhriti, with unique abilities and talents, who often did not have the opportunities they deserved. We wanted to change that narrative. The idea was simple yet profound: create a platform where individuals with intellectual disabilities could showcase their artistic talents, receive recognition, and gain meaningful employment.
Building the Foundation
Starting Tickle yoUr Art was both exciting and daunting. As an architect, I had a background in design and creativity, but venturing into the world of entrepreneurship was new territory. We began by creating a small team of passionate individuals who shared our vision. Our initial focus was on product design. We wanted our products to be more than just items; we wanted them to tell stories, to carry the essence of the artists who created them.
Raising Awareness
One of the core missions of Tickle yoUr Art is to raise awareness about intellectual disabilities, particularly Down Syndrome. We aim to shift perceptions and challenge stereotypes. Through our art and the stories behind each piece, we encourage open discussions about different needs and abilities. Every artwork we produce is accompanied by a narrative about the artist, their journey, and what inspires them. This not only provides context but also fosters a deeper connection between the product and the consumer.
Creating Opportunities
Providing job opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities is at the heart of Tickle yoUr Art. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to work, to contribute, and to feel valued. Our artists are not just employees; they are integral members of our team. They are involved in every step of the process, from conceptualization to creation to sales. We offer training and support, ensuring that they can develop their skills and thrive in their roles.
Challenges and Triumphs
Like any startup, we faced numerous challenges along the way. Securing funding, building a customer base, and raising awareness were significant hurdles. However, each challenge was also an opportunity to learn and grow. We received invaluable support from the community, from organizations that believed in our mission, and from customers who fell in love with our products and our story.
One of our most significant triumphs has been seeing the impact of our work on our artists. Watching Dhriti and her peers gain confidence, develop new skills, and receive recognition for their talents has been incredibly rewarding. Their joy and sense of accomplishment fuel our passion and drive to keep pushing forward.
Expanding Our Reach
As Tickle yoUr Art grew, we expanded our product range and began exploring new avenues. We started collaborating with other artists, designers, and organizations to create unique and diverse collections. Each collaboration brought fresh perspectives and allowed us to reach a broader audience.
We also began participating in events and exhibitions, showcasing our work and spreading our message. These platforms provided valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations, furthering our mission and expanding our network.
The Power of Community
Community has been a cornerstone of Tickle yoUr Art’s success. We have been fortunate to build a supportive and engaged community of customers, partners, and advocates. Their feedback, encouragement, and shared belief in our mission have been instrumental in our growth.
Social media has played a crucial role in building and nurturing this community. Through platforms like Instagram and Facebook, we share our journey, our products, and the stories of our artists. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with people resonating with our message and becoming loyal supporters.
The Future of Tickle yoUr Art
Looking ahead, we have ambitious plans for Tickle yoUr Art. We want to continue expanding our reach, both in terms of the products we offer and the impact we make. We aim to collaborate with more artists and designers, exploring new creative possibilities and pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve.
We also plan to develop more programs and initiatives to support our artists, providing them with additional training, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Our goal is to create a sustainable and scalable model that can be replicated in other regions, empowering even more individuals with intellectual disabilities.
A Personal Reflection
Reflecting on this journey, I am filled with gratitude and pride. Tickle yoUr Art started as a way to support Dhriti and has grown into a platform that touches the lives of many. It has been a journey of love, resilience, and unwavering belief in the potential of every individual, regardless of their abilities.
As an architect, I have always been passionate about design and creativity. Tickle yoUr Art has allowed me to channel that passion into something that makes a real difference in the world. It has taught me the power of art to connect, inspire, and transform. Most importantly, it has shown me the incredible strength and beauty of the human spirit.