The Sharjah Children Biennial 2016

The Sharjah Children Biennial, SCB, showcased an array of events, including art workshops, children's performances and distribution of memorabilia as part of their participation at the 8th edition of Abu Dhabi Art, held from 16th to 19th November, as a run up to their preparations for the 5th edition of the SCB. 

Renowned Lebanese American artist, Fortune Penniman, who works as an architect at Emaar Square8, conducted a special art workshop on the fourth day of the event, titled ‘A World as Big as Your Imagination', during which he introduced participants to unique drawing techniques as well as various methods of using pencils to build artistic shapes, and other creative skills. The biennial was organised by the Sharjah Children Centres, SCC. 

" SCB's participation in Abu Dhabi Art is one of our most significant participations to support local and Arab art events, and consolidate SCC's presence in the event year on year. Since Abu Dhabi Art's inception, we have decided to capitalise on the opportunity and work together on enriching children's experiences, integrate them into major art circles and transfer renowned artists' expertise to them in an interactive manner," said Reem BinKaram, Director of SCC, and President of SCB. 

"Abu Dhabi Art is one of the biggest artistic cultural events in the Middle East, and attracts inspirational art experiences from around the world. It has offered SCB a valuable opportunity to enrich its project and familiarise visitors with its vision. We answered many questions visitors raised from artists or other interested individuals, about the biennial. This is simply because the idea of having a biennial for children is new to the Arab world," she added. 

Visiting the SCB stand were prominent leaders from the UAE which included, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority. These visits have highlighted the efforts SCB has been putting in, through its creative projects and initiatives, to shape and fuel the artistic abilities of children and young adults. –