Northern Irish author joins 125th anniversary celebrations of UK-Kuwait diplomatic relations
During his visit, Clive McFarland, an author, painter, and teacher, conducted a series of engaging workshops for British primary school students in Kuwait.
• H.E. Belinda Lewis, the British Ambassador to Kuwait, said, “The UK is a global leader in the creative industries, and British books, art, music, films, theatre, fashion, and design are very popular in Kuwait and around the world. I am keen to explore more opportunities to showcase cultural ties between us and strengthen our cooperation in this exciting field.”
• Siham Al-Azmi, Director General of the Kuwaiti National Library, expressed her happiness in hosting Northern Irish author Clive McFarland and collaborating with the British Embassy to promote culture and encourage reading.
THE TIMES KUWAIT REPORT
Northern Irish author Clive McFarland visited Kuwait at the invitation of the British Embassy as part of the joint celebrations marking the 125th anniversary of official diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Kuwait.
McFarland is an author, painter, and teacher, and his work has been nominated for the Children’s Book of the Year award at the Irish Book Awards, as well as for two International Association of Illustrators (AOI) Awards.
During his visit, McFarland hosted a series of engaging workshops for British primary school students in Kuwait.
Each 45-minute workshop included reading one of his stories, followed by a participatory drawing session where children were asked to illustrate the story’s characters based on their own perceptions. There was also an interactive game encouraging them to imitate the characters’ movements. Children were given the opportunity to ask questions as well. The goal of these activities was to foster creativity in children and inspire a love of reading.
Reflecting on his visit, McFarland said, “I really enjoyed visiting local schools and the Kuwait National Library. I was amazed by the children’s interaction during our sessions and drawings. The joy they expressed toward literature was evident, which reminded me of the powerful impact children’s books can have on young readers. I will always cherish my wonderful experience here and am grateful for the opportunity to share my stories.”
For her part, H.E. Belinda Lewis, the British Ambassador to Kuwait, said, “The celebration of 125 years of partnership highlights the cooperation between Kuwait and the United Kingdom, and it was a pleasure to host Clive from Tyrone County in Northern Ireland, where the children’s literature scene is booming greatly.”
She added, “The UK is a global leader in the creative industries, and British books, art, music, films, theatre, fashion, and design are very popular in Kuwait and around the world. I am keen to explore more opportunities to showcase cultural ties between us and strengthen our cooperation in this exciting field.”
In turn, Siham Al-Azmi, Director General of the Kuwaiti National Library, which hosted a number of workshops, expressed her happiness to cooperate with the British Embassy and host McFarland, pointing out that, “The library welcomes and is happy to cooperate with all authorities and institutions inside and outside Kuwait for its benefit, the benefit of the Kuwait National Library’s patrons, and to spread culture, knowledge, and encourage reading.”
