Dubai, UAE, 23 August 2026: The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library organised a three-day interactive art workshop titled Art as a Human Response. Led by artist Ahmed Alwari, the workshop took place in celebration of World Humanitarian Day and as part of the Library's visual and digital arts program.
Held at the Library's Al Khor Gallery, the workshop was open to participants aged 16 and above. It combined theoretical and practical elements, while also giving participants the opportunity to showcase their artwork in an exhibition at the Library.
The workshop explored visual art as a universal human language that transcends borders, tracing its roots from ancient cave paintings to its role in expressing human issues and documenting war, poverty, and suffering. It also highlighted renowned artists who used their work to influence humanity, including Pablo Picasso, Francisco Goya, Gustave Courbet, Käthe Kollwitz, Diego Rivera, and José Clemente Orozco.
Furthermore, the workshop explored the role of art in giving humanitarian causes and marginalised communities a platform for expression, transforming figures and statistics into stories and experiences capable of inspiring empathy and raising awareness.
On the practical side, the workshop explored the symbolism of the "outstretched hand" as a visual expression of giving, support, and connection. Participants also received training in drawing the anatomy of the hand and learned the fundamentals of oil painting for skin tones, including colour palette development, blending and transparency techniques, and common mistakes to avoid.
Artist Ahmed Alwari emphasised that the primary objective of the event was to bring art and culture closer to different segments of society. He noted that his 13 years of experience in practicing art and organising exhibitions strengthened his belief in the importance of initiatives that help build stronger connections between audiences and the cultural landscape.
With a large turnout, participants benefited from the workshop's theoretical and practical sessions and explored the role of art in expressing emotions and humanitarian issues, while also developing their drawing and painting skills. The workshop concluded with an exhibition showcasing the participants' work at the Library.
This event supports the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library's efforts to offer interactive cultural and artistic programs, strengthening its role as an open space for knowledge, creativity, and dialogue.