Latest news with #MarwaAlAqroubi
Gulf Today
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
House of Wisdom highlights ‘Kalila wa Dimna' at SCRF
Visitors are excited to see the classical fables of 'Kalila wa Dimna' through interactive technologies and once again dive into the ever-lasting wonders of classical stories. The classical stories of 'Kalila wa Dimna' are being presented at the exclusive stall of House of Wisdom (HoW) which takes part in the 16th Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF), running from April 23 to May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah, with a special focus on the timeless fables of Kalila wa Dimna. Originating in ancient Sanskrit and later translated into Middle Persian, Kalila wa Dimna entered the Arabic literary tradition through the 8th-century translator Abdullah Ibn Al Muqaffa, a key figure in Abbasid-era literature. The beloved work is now being brought to life for young readers through a series of interactive experiences and storytelling sessions at the HoW booth. The initiative aims to present the classic tales in a fresh, engaging format that blends play with learning-encouraging critical thinking and helping children explore universal values through symbolic narratives. Renowned for their moral and philosophical depth, the stories of Kalila wa Dimna have played a significant role in shaping educational and literary traditions across cultures. Their continued relevance today underscores the enduring power of storytelling in cultivating wisdom, empathy, and imagination. Marwa Al Aqroubi, HoW Executive Director, said: 'Kalila wa Dimna is a brilliant example of allegorical storytelling at its finest-timeless wisdom told through animals in a style that is both elegant and accessible. Ibn Al Muqaffa gave these tales new life in Arabic, enriching them with moral and educational depth.' She added: 'These fables remain a cornerstone of Arabic literature and cultural exchange. Through our participation in the SCRF, we're reimagining them in a modern, interactive way-inviting children to explore their meaning, reflect, and grow.' House of Wisdom's booth features main stations, beginning with a Manuscript Display showcasing two rare digital copies of Kalila wa Dimna from the collection of the Bibliothèque nationale de France. The first is a unique illustrated manuscript titled The Hare and the Elephant, dated 1222 CE. Comprising 18 chapters and 89 exquisite miniatures, this edition presents animal-led fables interwoven with proverbs and wisdom in a tone that is both witty and profound. The second manuscript dates back to the 14th century Mamluk era and is believed to have originated in Egypt or Syria. It features six tales attributed to the sage Bidpai, complete with a decorative index and striking visual elements that reflect the refined artistry of Islamic manuscript tradition. The second section of the booth, Meet the Characters, invites children on an engaging journey of self-discovery. Through interactive storytelling, young visitors get to know the fable's most iconic characters-like the clever hare, the brave lion, the cunning fox, the mighty elephant, and the vain tortoise. This experience encourages children to reflect on their own traits and connect them with the values each character embodies, combining fun with thoughtful exploration. Visitors will then embark on a unique interactive journey powered by AI, where children can discover which Kalila wa Dimna character best reflects their personality. By answering simple, life-inspired questions, young participants are matched with their spirit animal from the tales. A personalised short story then appears on the screen, tailored to the child's traits and adventures. These stories can be printed or emailed as a meaningful keepsake, inspiring children to create their own tales. The HoW booth also hosts a range of engaging activities and workshops for children, including the interactive Shadow Theatre. This time-honoured storytelling art revives the classic tales of Kalila wa Dimna, immersing children in exciting performances that highlight the ethical lessons within these stories. The experience concludes with a special gift shop offering a curated selection of books, plush toys, educational games, and artistic merchandise inspired by the Kalila wa Dimna world. To celebrate the launch of the SCRF, HoW is offering a 10% discount on its Regular, Premium, and Digital memberships throughout the event.
Sharjah 24
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
HoW highlights ‘Kalila wa Dimna' at 16th SCRF
Originating in ancient Sanskrit and later translated into Middle Persian, Kalila wa Dimna entered the Arabic literary tradition through the 8th-century translator Abdullah Ibn Al-Muqaffa, a key figure in Abbasid-era literature. The beloved work is now being brought to life for young readers through a series of interactive experiences and storytelling sessions at the HoW booth. The initiative aims to present the classic tales in a fresh, engaging format that blends play with learning—encouraging critical thinking and helping children explore universal values through symbolic narratives. Renowned for their moral and philosophical depth, the stories of Kalila wa Dimna have played a significant role in shaping educational and literary traditions across cultures. Their continued relevance today underscores the enduring power of storytelling in cultivating wisdom, empathy, and imagination. Marwa Al Aqroubi, HoW Executive Director, said: 'Kalila wa Dimna is a brilliant example of allegorical storytelling at its finest—timeless wisdom told through animals in a style that is both elegant and accessible. Ibn Al-Muqaffa gave these tales new life in Arabic, enriching them with moral and educational depth.' She added: 'These fables remain a cornerstone of Arabic literature and cultural exchange. Through our participation in the SCRF, we're reimagining them in a modern, interactive way—inviting children to explore their meaning, reflect, and grow.' Rare Exhibits and Interactive Encounters House of Wisdom's booth features main stations, beginning with a Manuscript Display showcasing two rare digital copies of Kalila wa Dimna from the collection of the Bibliothèque nationale de France. The first is a unique illustrated manuscript titled The Hare and the Elephant, dated 1222 CE. Comprising 18 chapters and 89 exquisite miniatures, this edition presents animal-led fables interwoven with proverbs and wisdom in a tone that is both witty and profound. The second manuscript dates back to the 14th century Mamluk era and is believed to have originated in Egypt or Syria. It features six tales attributed to the sage Bidpai, complete with a decorative index and striking visual elements that reflect the refined artistry of Islamic manuscript tradition. The second section of the booth, Meet the Characters, invites children on an engaging journey of self-discovery. Through interactive storytelling, young visitors get to know the fable's most iconic characters—like the clever hare, the brave lion, the cunning fox, the mighty elephant, and the vain tortoise. This experience encourages children to reflect on their own traits and connect them with the values each character embodies, combining fun with thoughtful exploration. Discover Your Tale through AI Visitors will then embark on a unique interactive journey powered by AI, where children can discover which Kalila wa Dimna character best reflects their personality. By answering simple, life-inspired questions, young participants are matched with their spirit animal from the tales. A personalised short story then appears on the screen, tailored to the child's traits and adventures. These stories can be printed or emailed as a meaningful keepsake, inspiring children to create their own tales. The HoW booth also hosts a range of engaging activities and workshops for children, including the interactive Shadow Theatre. This time-honoured storytelling art revives the classic tales of Kalila wa Dimna, immersing children in exciting performances that highlight the ethical lessons within these stories. The experience concludes with a special gift shop offering a curated selection of books, plush toys, educational games, and artistic merchandise inspired by the Kalila wa Dimna world. To celebrate the launch of the SCRF, HoW is offering a 10% discount on its Regular, Premium, and Digital memberships throughout the event. This offer provides access to millions of knowledge resources, including books, journals, scientific theses, research papers, and multimedia files, as well as full access to the library's modern facilities and year-round educational and cultural programmes.
Sharjah 24
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
'Folktales Reimagined' continues to celebrate Emirati heritage
Celebrates cultural heritage and promotes dialogue between civilisations The exhibition celebrates cultural heritage and promotes dialogue between civilisations by bringing together artists from different cultures. Each artist is invited to reinterpret the traditional folktales of the other's culture, emphasising the shared values that connect people across borders. Previous editions of the exhibition have been held in Russia, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, and Greece. These events helped introduce Emirati folklore to diverse audiences while allowing Emirati artists and illustrators to explore and creatively reinterpret the stories of other cultures. Through literature and art, the exhibition fosters greater cultural understanding and connection. Praised the exhibition's growing impact In statements at the opening of the sixth edition, held at the National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco, Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, praised the exhibition's growing impact. He explained that the concept centres around reimagining mythical creatures in ways that reflect the customs and traditions of different societies, creating a visual bridge that fosters intercultural understanding. He also emphasised that illustrations are especially effective in engaging audiences and leaving a lasting impression. Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of UAEBBY, noted that the month-long exhibition features ten artists — five from the UAE and five from Morocco — who reinterpreted some of the most well-known folktale characters from both countries. Each artist offered their unique vision, shaped by their generational perspectives and lived experiences. She also revealed plans to compile all previous editions into a single, comprehensive publication that celebrates the diverse cultural heritages represented throughout the exhibition's history.
Gulf News
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Watch: Sharjah's ‘Folktales Reimagined' travelling exhibition debuts in Morocco
Rabat, Morocco: At the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, inaugurated the Moroccan edition of the 'Folktales Reimagined' exhibition at the National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco, highlighting Sharjah's role as Guest of Honour. This unique exhibition, organised by the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) in collaboration with IBBY Morocco and the National Library, features ten artists—five Emirati and five Moroccan. Each artist reinterprets a folktale from the other's culture, blending traditional narratives with modern artistic expressions to engage new generations with the rich folklore of the UAE and Morocco. Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of UAEBBY, commented on the project's evolution since its debut at the Bologna Children's Book Fair in 2022, stating, 'Our goal is to transform this exhibition into a cultural movement that takes folktales across borders. This edition in Morocco reflects the global interest in exploring folklore through artistic lenses.' Lasting platform She added: 'We aim to establish 'Folktales Reimagined' as a lasting platform where artists from various countries can explore each other's stories, symbols, and social contexts, enriching the educational and cultural value of these tales and creating a universal language for cross-cultural dialogue.' This is the sixth installment of the travelling exhibition, following showcases in Italy, Mexico, South Korea, Greece, and Russia. Each venue has fostered a space for cultural exchange, allowing artists and visitors to delve into common values, memories, and aspirations that connect diverse communities. Innovative artworks The exhibition in Morocco showcases innovative artworks that reinterpret traditional tales through personal, contemporary lenses. Highlights include Emirati artist Amna Al Ketbi's take on the Moroccan tale of Hadidan le Rusé and Khalid Al-Khawar's depiction of The Weaver's Daughter. From the Moroccan contingent, Mohamed Haïti reimagines the Emirati tale of Al-Hama, and Sophia Alami offers a fresh take on Oum Rukheesh. Employing a range of artistic techniques from digital art to poster design, the artists use visual language effectively to bring these stories to life for a modern audience. This approach not only preserves the tales but also makes them accessible and engaging for today's digital-native viewers. 'Folktales Reimagined' was originally launched in 2019 as part of Sharjah's UNESCO World Book Capital celebrations by UAEBBY. The initiative aims to foster cultural understanding and revive the narrative heritage of diverse communities through artistic storytelling. The exhibition has successfully toured multiple countries, resonating with international audiences and underscoring the universal appeal and cultural significance of folktales.
Sharjah 24
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Bodour Al Qasimi opens "Folktales Reimagined" Exhibition in Rabat
Organised by the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) in collaboration with IBBY Morocco and the National Library, the exhibition brings together five Emirati and five Moroccan artists, each reimagining a folktale from the other's culture. These contemporary visual interpretations offer a unique fusion of heritage and modernity, introducing new generations to characters and legends that have long shaped the cultural identity of both the UAE and Morocco. Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of UAEBBY, said: "Since the project launched at the Bologna Children's Book Fair in 2022, our aim has been to evolve beyond a simple exhibition format into a cultural movement that takes folktales across borders. This Moroccan edition is a testament to the growing global interest in rediscovering folklore through the lens of art." She continued: "We're working to establish 'Folktales Reimagined' as a sustainable platform where artists from different countries can dive into each other's narrative traditions, understand their symbolism, and explore their social contexts. In doing so, we restore the educational and cultural value of folktales and turn them into a universal language for cross-cultural connection." Sixth edition This is the sixth edition of the traveling exhibition, following previous editions in Italy, Mexico, South Korea, Greece, and Russia. Each stop has served as a creative hub for cultural dialogue, where artists and audiences engage beyond the visual, exploring shared values, societal memories, and the dreams that bind us all. Featured innovative artworks by ten artists from the UAE and Morocco The Moroccan edition featured innovative artworks by ten artists from the UAE and Morocco, each reimagining a traditional tale from the other's culture through a personal, contemporary lens. Emirati artist Amna Al Ketbi revisited the story of Hadidan le Rusé, about a clever boy who survives a monstrous ogress thanks to a house made of iron. Khalid Al-Khawar interpreted The Weaver's Daughter, a touching tale of a blind girl who, after being lost in a forest, finds a new beginning and miraculously regains her sight. Reem Ahmed explored the legend of Aïcha Kandicha, one of Morocco's most enigmatic folktale figures—part heroine, part ghost—who symbolizes beauty, danger, and rebellion. Dalal Al Jabri offered her vision of Haïna and the Ogre, a story of a brave girl who disguises herself to escape a monstrous creature and ultimately rescues her fiancé with the help of magical birds. Meanwhile, Rafia Al Nassar reimagined The Forest Monster, a compact yet symbol-rich tale of a boy who defeats a fierce beast through wit and courage. From the Moroccan side, artist Mohamed Haïti drew inspiration from the Emirati tale of Al-Hama, a gluttonous, bird-like creature that embodies chaos and unrelenting hunger. Sophia Alami presented her interpretation of Oum Rukheesh, a terrifying omen-like bird that preys on the vulnerable, haunting cemeteries and darkened skies. Hind Kharifi redefined the infamous Bou Sola, a wolf-like beast with glowing red eyes and a haunting presence, offering a bold, surreal vision of fear and the unknown. Lamia Hmaiddout infused warmth and vibrancy into Jinni Al-Raqqas, the legendary cannon of Sharjah said to dance only to music and joy, transforming it into a lively emblem of festivity and resistance. Lastly, Mickaël El Fathi tackled the eerie figure of Jinni Al-Marijah, a haunting child-like jinn that emerges in broad daylight, unsettling the community with his ghostly appearance and deep-rooted symbolism. The artists employed techniques ranging from digital art and illustration to poster design, using vibrant visual languages to reinterpret these folktales for modern, digital-native audiences. Their works transformed traditional stories into immersive experiences, using colour, shape, and form as narrative tools. First launched in 2019 "Folktales Reimagined" was first launched in 2019 during Sharjah's UNESCO World Book Capital celebrations. Created by UAEBBY, the initiative promotes cultural understanding through artistic storytelling, reviving the narrative heritage of diverse communities. The exhibition has since toured multiple countries—including the UAE, Italy, Mexico, South Korea, Greece, and Russia—and has been widely embraced by audiences.
