Learning a foreign language through Art is one of the most motivating ways to keep our learners engaged.
We are so honored to have hosted famous Lebanese American Helen Zughaib artist in one amazing workshop session, back on May 15, 2016
“You are most welcome. We had fun! And thank you for the delicious Lebanese food too!!! xoohelen“
Our students worked with their teachers on the topic of the House 🏡. They acquired the necessary vocabulary to describe their ideal home, from the scenery of their choice. Helen Zughaib guided our students through her illustrated story: Stories My Father Told Me.
They had the opportunity to attend a three-hour Arabic language workshop on the theme of “Stories my Father Told,” led by the renowned artist Helen Zughaib. The workshop was a unique and inspiring experience that combined language, culture, and art, and it allowed me to deepen my understanding of the Arabic language and its rich cultural heritage.
📖 About the Workshop:
The workshop was structured around the theme of stories passed down from fathers to their children, a common thread in many cultures. Helen Zughaib led the workshop with a combination of storytelling, language lessons, and art activities. Throughout the workshop, participants learned Arabic vocabulary and phrases related to family and storytelling, and were encouraged to practice speaking and writing in Arabic.
🖼 The Artistic Experience:
One of the highlights of the workshop was the opportunity to create our own works of art inspired by the stories we heard. Helen Zughaib provided us with a variety of materials, including paints, paper, and calligraphy pens, and taught us how to use these tools to create vibrant and expressive artwork. Alefb students were encouraged to let our creativity run wild and to express our own interpretations of the stories.
👨👧 The Cultural Connection:
The workshop was not only about learning Arabic language and art, but also about connecting with the rich cultural heritage of the Arabic-speaking world. Helen Zughaib shared her own experiences growing up in Lebanon and hearing stories from her father, and encouraged us to think about our own family histories and the stories that have been passed down to us. Through this workshop, Alefb students gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of storytelling in preserving cultural traditions and heritage.
In conclusion, the three-hour Arabic language workshop on the theme of “Stories my Father Told” was a truly enriching and transformative experience. We left the workshop with a deeper understanding of the Arabic language, a greater appreciation for the cultural heritage of the Arabic-speaking world, and a newfound passion for art. We would like to express our gratitude to Helen Zughaib for her time and expertise. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and creativity with us!
This week-end Helen will be exhibiting her work at the Kennedy center, in WDC from Feb 14 to Feb 18.
Presented in collaboration with the Arab America Foundation and AFMI , the Taking Back Our Narrative events speak to the fullness and diversity of the Arab American experience, values, and cultural landscape throughout the United States.
Definitely not to be missed festival!
Today, 12 years later, our students are about to enter college or High school.
Here are some ways anyone can leverage the unique experience lived at Alefb Arabic language art workshop:
✔️ Incorporate your learning into your studies: You can use the knowledge and skills you gained in the workshop to help with your coursework, particularly in subjects that relate to language, culture, and art.
✔️ Develop a portfolio: Compile a portfolio of your work from the workshop to showcase your creativity and language skills. This portfolio can be useful when applying for jobs or graduate programs in related fields.
✔️ Join related clubs and organizations: Seek out clubs and organizations on campus that focus on Arabic language, culture, and art, and become an active member. This can help you network and collaborate with others who share your interests.
✔️ Volunteer or intern: Look for volunteer or internship opportunities in organizations that promote Arabic language and culture, such as cultural centers, language schools, or community organizations. This can give you practical experience and help you build connections in your field.
✔️ Create your own projects: Use your knowledge and skills from the workshop to create your own projects, such as writing stories in Arabic or creating art inspired by Arabic culture. This will help you to build your skills and showcase your talents to others.
Remember, the key is to be proactive and seek out opportunities to use and develop the skills you gained in the workshop.