An innovative, child-friendly approach to string art brings the UAE’s map—and a powerful message of unity—to the fore at the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival

Sharjah, April 30, 2025

The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival is offering young attendees a creative lesson in belonging through a hands-on workshop titled Threads of Unity. Led by acclaimed string artist and educator Serge Gemayel, this child-friendly activity reimagines traditional string art to celebrate UAE culture and unity.

Gemayel, the creative force behind Nomad Workshops, has tailored string art for a younger audience. “Traditional string art uses real wood, nails, and hammers, which isn’t ideal for kids,” he says. “For this workshop, I’ve adapted it with foam boards, coloured pins, and mini wooden hammers to make it safe and fun.”

France’s Got Incredible Talent star dazzles morning crowd at the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival with lively blend of storytelling, music and magical illusions featuring classic children’s characters

Sharjah, April 30, 2025

Monday blues vanished at the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF 2025), as magician Frenchman Philibeg Bougard brought wonder, music and old-world charm in abundance with his family-friendly act “Magic in the Air”.

Bougard, who first rose to fame on France’s Got Incredible Talent, used beloved characters from classic tales, including Ali Baba, in his routines. Each act, a display of illusion, also gave a playful nod to childhood legends, allowing children to connect deeply with the stories they knew.