Sharjah Children’s Book Award Welcomes Young Artists With New Category
The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has recently announced the addition of a "Young Adults" category to the esteemed Sharjah Children’s Book Illustration Award. This move is set to open doors for young talents across the UAE, inviting them to submit their artwork interpretations of a chosen book. With the submission window open until 1st May, this initiative is poised to uncover new artistic talents within the nation.
Submissions are being accepted via email at [email protected], with the winners set to be revealed during the 15th Sharjah Children Reading Festival (SCRF), scheduled from 1-12 May at the Expo Centre Sharjah. This new category aims to highlight the pivotal role of book illustrations in enriching children's reading experiences, encouraging young readers to delve deeper into the narratives presented.
Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SCRF, expressed enthusiasm for the new category, emphasizing the unique perspective young artists bring to storytelling through their illustrations. "Their ability to visually interpret stories in a way that resonates with their peers is invaluable," Al Mujaini stated, highlighting how such illustrations add depth and authenticity to children's literature.
The award seeks not only to celebrate but also to nurture the talents of young illustrators, integrating them into the publishing industry and contributing to the creation of high-quality books for young audiences. By doing so, it aims to enhance educational and entertainment value in literature aimed at youth, making reading a more engaging and enjoyable experience.
Eligibility for the award spans two age groups: 12 to 15 and 16 to 18 years old. Participants are required to submit three illustrations for a book of their choice, using either manual or digital methods, on paper no larger than A3 size. The competition promises attractive prizes for winners in both categories, with AED 3,000 for first place, AED 2,000 for second place, and AED 1,000 for third place.
This initiative by the SBA underscores its commitment to fostering young talent within the literary and artistic domains. By providing a platform for young illustrators to showcase their skills and creativity, the Sharjah Children’s Book Illustration Award aims to contribute significantly to the development of enriching and intellectually stimulating literature for children and adolescents worldwide.
With inputs from WAM


