JEDDAH — Al Waha International School's junior section held its annual art competition dubbed “Different Strokes – Mom and I” on February 27. The newly-acquired spacious school ground — creatively decorated by senior art teacher Alima Ali and her assistants — was the venue for participating students of grade 1 and their mothers who came together to spend some quality time and produce unique artworks themed around “Whimsical Art.” The mother and child teams were provided with a large stand of art materials to produce their work of art in two hours under the guidelines specified by Ali. “It's relaxing to see our students involved in creative fun. They work in a stress free environment, build good memories and leave with smiling faces,” said Ali. The judges, Seema Ghias and Sarah le Meknes, and the organizers were awestruck by the wonderful artworks created by the young students and their mothers in both categories — painting and craft. The brainchild of this themed event, Academic Director of Al Waha's junior's section Farozan Warsi, said: “The ‘Mom & I Art competition at Al Waha' has never been about winning prizes and gifts. Rather it has always focused on creating a platform where mothers can spend qualitative time with their child via the medium of art. Nobody is required to be an artist for this event; it only calls for the basic ingredient of ‘care' that takes expression through being together.” Winners of the competition were presented with gifts sponsored by Mehran Spices, Reel & Rom, National Biscuits and Confectionary Company, and Pioneer Books. Participation certificates were also awarded to students. The mothers were invited to pen down their comments on the comment board. Nuzhat Salman, mother of Sidra Salman, wrote “It was really a very wonderful feeling…the kids were very excited. These types of gathering should be conducted twice a year where mothers can get close to their children and spend precious time with them.” The event came to a close with students getting a sweet wrapped in a strip of paper inscribed with art tips. These sweets came from the whimsical tree of art, which bore sweets instead of fruits. Earlier, Senior Supervisor of Al Waha's junior section Regina Ashraf welcomed the gathering. For eight consecutive years, Al Waha has diligently provided this unique platform to parents and their wards to bond and create amazing masterpieces.
