Page 12 - MBRF PR REPORT - AUGUST 2025

Press Release

Dubai International Program for Writing launches third ‘Illustrations

for Children’s Stories’ workshop to enhance creative skills

Dubai, UAE, 29 August 2025- The Dubai International Program for Writing (DIPW), a key
initiative of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), hosted the

third edition of the ‘Illustrations for Children's Stories’ workshop at the Mohammed bin Rashid
Library. Under the guidance of illustrator Fatima Al-Amri, the workshop brought together

enthusiastic young artists eager to refine their abilities in children's book illustration.

The workshop was designed to enhance the artistic skills of participants by introducing them to

modern techniques in both traditional and digital illustration. It promoted a hybrid approach that
encouraged blending both styles to create high-quality visuals that meet industry standards in

children’s publishing. The workshop further aimed to empower artists to utilize AI tools in their
work, but only as supportive instruments to maintain the authenticity of their creative expression.

Instructor Fatima Al-Amri said: “The workshop was designed to feature a comprehensive
curriculum that includes character development, book and cover design, visual scene composition,

and the use of digital illustration techniques to create print-ready works.” Participants also
explored mechanisms to analyze outstanding examples of children’s literature, expanding their

artistic views and enhancing their skills in visual storytelling.

The workshop incorporated both international and Arabic storytelling models within an analytical
framework, which enabled participants to gain deeper insights into how the connection between

text and imagery evolves in children's literature. Discussions also addressed the principles of

artistic trends, with a focus on meeting the cognitive and psychological needs of young readers.
This approach enhanced visual experiences and provided practical training that aligns with global

standards in the publishing industry.

This initiative highlights MBRF’s constant dedication to strengthening the publishing sector and
promoting the development of children’s literature across the Arab world. Through advanced