SHARJAH, UAE- An instrument can be more than a source of sound; it can also become a canvas for creativity. At the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026), Min Khant Zaw Oo led a ukulele painting workshop that invited children to explore the artistic side of music, transforming their instruments into colourful expressions of their imagination.
With paint and brushes in hand, participants experimented with colours, patterns and decorative styles. Rather than following a single template, they were encouraged to develop their own designs, giving each ukulele a distinctive appearance.
The activity also encouraged patience, concentration and confidence as children made their own creative choices, discovering how an everyday musical instrument could become a personal artwork.
Recognised for its compact form and distinctive sound, the ukulele offered an unconventional canvas for young artists. By decorating their instruments, participants explored the connection between music and visual art, taking home creations that reflected their individual preferences and imagination.
Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026) runs from November 4 to 15 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme ‘Made of Stories’, with the Sultanate of Oman as Guest of Honour. The fair brings together 3,212 publishers and exhibitors from 126 countries, showcasing more than 1.7 million titles. Its programme features 1,500 cultural, creative and artistic events, with 106 guests from 25 countries.
