Playful Abstractions with Shaima Saleh

This workshop introduces children to abstract art through a simple, playful approach. It begins with an accessible explanation of what abstract art is, then invites them to explore different materials and techniques that encourage experimentation and play.

The methodology focuses on asking questions and deconstructing artworks to help children understand them, while also guiding them to connect with their own feelings as they create personal works of art. These sessions with the artist, Shaima Saleh, emphasize play, movement, and curiosity through the use of diverse materials, shapes, and patterns.

The workshop is divided into two sessions:

1. Dancing Shapes: A paper collage activity where each child creates their own individual artwork.
2. Fabric Collage: A collaborative activity where children contribute their own shapes to one large fabric collage, resulting in a collective abstract artwork.

Dates & Time:

Dancing Shapes: Paper Collage

Thursday, Oct 16, 2025

4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Fabric Collage: Collective Making

Friday, Oct 17, 2025

4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Ages: 7-10 years of age (Registration is required for this workshop, please register HERE)

Learning Objectives & Outcomes:

• Understand what abstract art is (art that doesn’t try to look “real” but plays with shapes, colors, and movement)
• Explore collage and fabric as mediums to explore texture, pattern, and creativity
• Practice making choices in color, shape, and composition
• Practice cutting and shaping fabric to express ideas
• Develop collaboration skills by creating one large shared artwork

About the Artist:

Shaima Saleh is a Jeddah-based multimedia artist whose work explores themes of home, memory, and the passage of time through everyday objects and materials. She often collects items from sidewalks, old houses, and abandoned spaces, transforming them into artworks that invite reflection and imagination. Alongside installation, she works with photography and writing, weaving poetic fragments into her creative process.

In her workshops with children, Shaima brings a spirit of discovery and play. By exploring abstract art through collage, shapes, and textures, she encourages children to examine ordinary materials closely, connect with their emotions, and experience art as both a personal expression and a collective creation.

 

This painting-beginner series of workshop sessions explore foundational artistic concepts and techniques when it comes to composing and painting a still-life artwork. Led by artist and educator, Tala Qari, the workshop aims to broaden the way that one observes the world around them and look at things from the lens of curiosity and openness.

Ages 14 – 17 years 

(Please note attending all three sessions of this programme is compulsory and registration is required, kindly register HERE)

 

Learning Objectives & Outcomes:

• Find new ways of looking at things by exercising powers of observation and broadening perspectives whilst learning about and of painting compositions
• Understand value as an artistic concept and build painting skills to show light and shadows
• Know the role of colour from painting washes to choosing and blending colours using ideas of colour theory
• Compose and complete a still-life painting

 

Tala Qari is a multimedia artist based in Jeddah with a degree in Fine Arts. She is passionate about using art as a tool to educate, inspire, and bring communities together. Blending her creative practice with cultural programming, she designs inclusive workshops and public programs that spark critical thinking, self-expression, and meaningful dialogue. Her mission is to make creativity accessible, transformative, and an integral part of everyday life.