The Royal Thai Embassy in Yangon, in collaboration with the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University and Myanmar Autism Association, jointly organized an “Art Therapy Workshop” during June 24 - 25 2014 at Yangon Children's Hospital. Over 40 participants, including teachers, parents and volunteers, as well as over 20 children with autism joined the workshop. Mrs. Thipayasuda Suvanajata, Spouse of Ambassador of Thailand to Myanmar, presided over the opening ceremony.

The “Art Therapy Workshop" came into reality with the support from Assoc. Prof. Pongdej Chaiyakut, Dean of Fine Arts, Chiangmai University who led a team of experts in art therapy, namely Asst. Prof. Padungsak Kochsomrong, Vice Dean of Fine Arts, and Mr. Komsan Pumpanya, artist, and supported on travel and accommodation by Nok Air and Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon, respectively.

The Thai resource persons shared their knowledge and experiences in using arts as a means of improving leaning skills and IQ of children with autism. Through various group activities, parents, teachers and children were engaged together to help strengthen interpersonal ties. Understanding these artistic exercises also helps improve their mindfulness and attention to the needs of children with autism.

The Art Therapy Workshop was a follow-up activity after the success of a seminar in February 2014 by the Rainbow Room, a non-profit organization, to raise awareness and share experiences in working with children with autism and their parents. Through cooperation such as this, the two countries and peoples are brought closer together, and the solid foundation of Thailand-Myanmar relations is further strengthened.