A Celebration of Imagination: The “My Wonderful House” Workshop at the Sharjah Children’s Book Illustration Exhibition
On a recent Thursday, an enchanting atmosphere permeated the Sharjah Children’s Book Illustration Exhibition, where the workshop titled “My Wonderful House” took center stage. This creative experience, tailored for children aged 8 to 15, showcased the artistic talents of acclaimed South Korean illustrator Ami Shin, who journeyed from Ulsan, South Korea, to engage young minds in a lively exploration of architecture and design.
The workshop was rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Korea, drawing inspiration from the Hanok, a traditional Korean residence characterized by its elegant giwa (flower-shaped tiled roofs), jangdokdae pots used for kimchi storage, and the renowned ondol underfloor heating system. Participants were encouraged to delve into their own fantasies of home design, contemplating what made a dwelling truly special and personal. “I wanted the children to think about what makes a home unique,” Shin explained. “We discussed shapes, colors, and traditional Korean design elements, but ultimately, it’s about letting one’s imagination run free. Each house is a unique invention.”
A Journey Through the World of Imagination
The workshop commenced with an engaging narrative involving Ian, a fictional architect, and his eclectic group of friends—Martin, the scientist; Raphael, the artist; and Valentino, the gardener. Each character’s distinct desires for their dream homes served as a springboard for the participants’ creativity. The young learners were tasked with envisioning what they would construct if they were entrusted with designing the homes for these imaginative personas.
Malik Ahmed, a twelve-year-old student from Al Itqan American School hailing from Egypt, expressed his fascination with the artistic aspirations of Raphael. “I loved Raphael’s idea the most. He envisioned a house like an art museum, and I created a dome-shaped ceiling where I could hang paintings,” Malik shared enthusiastically.
His classmate, thirteen-year-old Yousef Majdi from Syria, found inspiration in Martin’s request for a lab-home. “I built a tower with a telescope and a robot room. I believe Martin would really appreciate it!” Yousef remarked, demonstrating how deeply the workshop resonated with the children’s individual interests.
The workshop further incorporated the concept of “chilkyo,” a seven-piece geometric puzzle that promotes creativity through playful manipulation of shapes. Utilizing colorful paper, the children engaged in a hands-on experience, cutting, folding, and assembling their creations from scratch. Each house bore its own narrative and title, transforming into a personal storytelling vessel.
Among the myriad of creations, nine-year-old Emirati Shamsa Al Serkal crafted a unique garden home adorned with secret books and flowers that change colors throughout the day. “I want a house that changes with the sky,” she expressed, proudly showcasing her paper cutout shaped like a blooming sunflower. “It’s like dreaming even when you’re awake,” she mused, encapsulating the workshop’s essence of imaginative exploration.
Encouraging Creativity Through Individual Expression
Throughout the session, Shin circulated among the tables, offering encouragement with infectious enthusiasm. “It’s not about creating the perfect model,” she reminded the children. “It’s about designing a space that feels wonderful to you. This is what design and storytelling are all about.”
The workshop was a part of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) 2025, an extensive celebration that embraces the festival’s overarching theme of “Dive Into Books.” SCRF 2025 presents over 600 activities spanning literature, science, and the arts, all aimed at fostering a love for learning and creativity among young audiences. Each workshop serves as a stepping stone, igniting curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the world of ideas—one page, one workshop, and one whimsical paper house at a time.
As the workshop concluded, laughter and animated conversations filled the air, with children sharing stories about their designs and the joys of creativity. It underscored a vital lesson—imagination knows no bounds, and every child has the potential to dream big, culminating in the realization that our homes are reflections of our individuality and creativity.
Conclusion
Ami Shin’s workshop was not merely an event; it was a springboard for the imaginations of young artists in Sharjah. It exemplified how the intersection of culture, art, and architecture can inspire the next generation to envision their dreams vividly and fearlessly. As communities celebrate creativity and artistic expression, the Sharjah Children’s Book Illustration Exhibition reminds us that through engagement and encouragement, we can cultivate a rich tapestry of ideas for tomorrow.
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