Calligraphy artists in Bahrain are being encouraged to embrace the spirit of Ramadan by designing a special ‘Eid Mubarak’ greeting for cards that will be distributed to children battling cancer during Eid Al Fitr.
The ‘Sherie Boutik x one% Eid Card Yearly Initiative’ invites creatives from all walks of life to sacrifice ‘one per cent of their time’ to a good cause .
Head of the campaign and boutique owner Sherie Amoudeh-Alireza told the GDN that artists are invited to submit Arabic calligraphy designs by February 21.
The winning design will be printed on the cards, after which creatives will be invited to collect batches of 10 cards to colour individually, ensuring each child receives a unique, handmade piece.
“We have been staging this initiative annually since 2020 to highlight the true meaning of Ramadan and encourage the local art community to contribute to a meaningful cause,” the Persian-Canadian resident, who has lived in Bahrain for 12 years, told the GDN.
Ms Amoudeh-Alireza visiting a cancer patient
She noted that the holy month aims to support the underprivileged, share blessings, and strengthen social bonds.
Traditionally, parents and older members of the family give children money as an Eid gift but, nowadays, many prefer to present young people with a thoughtful gift to make the occasion more memorable and special for them.
The card campaign is being run in support of the Smile Initiative, launched by the Bahrain Future Society for Youth, which provides psychosocial support to children with cancer and their parents. “By giving just one per cent of your time to a charitable cause, you can make a real difference, not only in our community, but in the world,” Ms Amoudeh-Alireza said, adding that the children supported by the Smile Initiative holds a ‘special place in her heart’.
Some previous designs
“These children are bravely battling a difficult time, and distributing these cards puts a smile on their faces and reminds them they are being thought of.”
Ms Amoudeh-Alireza said that the initiative also showcases Bahrain’s talented art community. “Turning the calligraphy design into a competition makes it more exciting for creatives, and it is inspiring to see how the designs have evolved since the first year.
More designs
“It’s always lovely for the children to receive a colourful handmade card, as it adds a special touch knowing it was made just for them.”
Each card will be delivered in an envelope containing BD5 10 days before Eid Al Fitr. Over the past two years more than 200 cards have been distributed.
- Designs can be submitted to Sherie Boutik in Hamala Hills. For more information, follow @sherieboutik on Instagram.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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