Autism and promoting creativity workshop topic

KULA — Promoting creativity, particularly in those with autism, is the topic of a free workshop from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Haleakala Waldorf School in Kula.

Laurence A. Becker will lead “Nurturing Creativity in Home and School Environments for Everyone and Spe-cifically for Individuals With Autism.”

Becker has a doctorate in creative learning environments and has worked with autistic savant artists since 1976. In 2000 he directed an International Gathering of Savants at the University of Texas in Austin. A workshop leader and consultant, he is a presenter at this month’s Pacific Rim Conference on Disability in Honolulu.

Becker founded and directed the Texas Student Film Festival, and produced an award-winning film, “With Eyes Wide Open.” He has had poems, essays and books published.

He serves on the advisory board of Down Home Ranch, a residential center for Down syndrome children and adults in Elgin, Texas. He formerly served on the boards of the Austin Waldorf School and American YouthWorks.

Donations will be accepted at Friday’s program. Haleakala Waldorf School is at 4160 Lower Kula Road.

For more information, call 878-3340. The workshop is co-sponsored by Lokelani ‘Ohana; for information, see www. lokelaniohana.org.