Hi everyone,

Writing and illustrating The Eco-heroes books involves lots of creative input from both Colette and I.  We are often asked about what inspires us. Well with Dubai Art Season in full swing there has been an abundance of inspiration everywhere! I love Dubai at this time of year with all the art, culture, music and foodie festivals.

This past week we have been inspired by an amazing array of artworks, exhibitions, installations and gallery events as part of Dubai Art Week. From Al Serkal Avenue to Art Dubai, we have been spoilt for choice. Al Serkal galleries night was a hive of activity with artworks, installations, movies, books and fashion all on display. One of our favourite art destinations in town has to be the beautiful Jameel Arts Centre on Jaddaf Waterfont. I went and checked out their new Artists Rooms exhibition and was rewarded by an inspirational and enlightening tour of the Rooms by Rhoda Azizoghly, Art Jameel’s Learning Coordinator. Thank you Rhoda! There is a wonderful art & design library there available to the public and it’s the perfect place for quiet reflection or a chilled space to get a spot of work done. We have donated copies of our books to the library so please enjoy!

Another firm favourite in the Dubai Culture Art Season has to be Sikka Art Fair in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Wandering through the narrow alleyways and shaded courtyards is such a delight any time of year, but during Sikka it really comes alive. Nine days (and nights) of art, performance, music and workshops for adults and kids makes for a fun and vibrant fair. We loved it! With a selection of emerging regional artists exhibiting around the theme ‘An Open Window to Art and Tolerance’ the art on display and performed was diverse, inclusive and very creative. It tied in perfectly of course with the Year of Tolerance. We were delighted to see some examples of recycled art and design on show too! The food stalls this year had plenty of vegetarian (zaatar chips –delish!) and vegan options (vegan ice pops anyone?) – all of which got a big thumbs up from Save Our World!

Plenty of inspiration there to get us started on book three! We might see you at Sharjah Biennial, our next art destination. Check out our video montage of our fav bits here;

Bye for now

Leona and Colette