An exhibition featuring paintings drawn by a child with autism kicked off in Hanoi on Thursday.

This is the first time such an exhibit has been organized in Vietnam.

Titled “Nem’s Story,” the event showcases 60 colorful works painted by 9-year-old Nem, whose real name is Ha Dinh Chi, a 3rd-grade student in the capital. Born with a cleft lip, Nem was found to have signs of autism at the age of 1.

Although he still has problems with his health, Nem can write, do calculations, and draw.

“We started to take action when Nem turned 2. We accessed methods to support autistic children from the Hanoi Club for Parents of Children with Autism,” Phuong, Nem’s mother, said.

“At first I did not understand my son, but after learning about neural development, psychology, and special education, I now understand him. I have learned to speak and think slowly to support him.”

“Nem’s Story” will run until May 15 at KAI Art Center at 342 Nghi Tam Street, Tay Ho District.

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