Trained over a period of three months by the Venus Art Academy Hobby Centre, Karelibaug, 30 children aged between six and 14 have worked magic on glass under the guidance of artist-cum-photographer Hariom Gujjar. Breaking away from the conventional stained glass mode, Gujjar has introduced to his young students a simpler, cost-effective and a durable medium using non-water soluble lacquer colours. The art works are aptly termed as `Artificial Stained Glass Paintings'.

``I decided on this medium to avoid making the art process complicated for the children. Besides, these colours are long-lasting and give an equally brilliant effect as the European painting method,'' says Gujjar.

Explaining the art process, Gujjar says, ``First I ask the children to draw on paper. There are no fixed rules about the subject. Then I check their drawings, weigh its merit on glass and explain to the children what areas they should avoid. The initial planning is important as the effect on paper and glass need not be the same.''

While free-hand designs and birds were a popular theme with the children, Gujjar has learnt that the younger of the lot tend to be more innovative about their subject matter. ``The little ones seem to use their mind while the older children sometimes follow rigid styles. In fact, the innocence coupled with insight seen in the works of a six-year-old in the group left one amazed about their potential,'' he says.

Gujjar also hopes to help the talented children win the limelight. He has earlier helped a young boy conduct a one-man show and another is in the offing around Diwali time. Many of the paintings of one student are much in demand abroad and he has also begun custom-making the art pieces for his art lovers.