Young artists shine under guidance of Luis San Vicente at SCRF

The award-winning Mexican illustrator Luis Miguel San Vicente Oliveros captured the imaginations of young attendees. In just an hour, pristine white canvases were transformed into vivid works of art as children of all ages took their seats and immersed themselves in drawing and colouring.

Luis, who is visiting the UAE for the first time, said: “This festival, with its incredible splash of creativity and sheer scale, is truly inspiring.” He was honoured with the Illustration Award at this year’s festival for his digital artwork Kala — a heartfelt tribute to his late husky.

Reflecting on his own childhood, Luis noted the growing challenge of nurturing imagination in an increasingly digital world. “I always played with colours when I was growing up. But today, with so many gadgets and structured activities, children often don’t find the time or space for simple things like drawing,” he said.

“Here, surrounded by so many books and so much art, it’s a wonderful opportunity to sit with children and excite them about colours and creativity. If, through this workshop, even one child decides ‘this is how I want to express myself’, I’ll consider it a success,” said Luis, who has illustrated more than 70 books and whose work has been exhibited worldwide.

For 11-year-old Yusuf and 12-year-old Rashid, the workshop provided the perfect start to their day. Clutching their canvases, they were closely guided by Luis but remained the true masters of their creations, each painting a magnificent blue whale across their A3-sized canvases.

“My mother will be very happy to see this. I’ll put it up in my room,” said a beaming Yusuf, proud of his masterpiece.

The free-to-attend 16th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival will run until May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah.