(SIH) Revives the Legacy of Traditional Crafts and Inspires Khorfakkan Girls Through Heritage Creativity
The Sharjah Institute for Heritage welcomed members of Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah – Khorfakkan Branch at the Traditional Crafts Museum for an interactive heritage visit aimed at introducing the girls to the richness of Emirati folk heritage and deepening their connection with the crafts of their forefathers. These crafts represent an integral part of the UAE’s national identity and collective memory.
A Journey Through Heritage
During the visit, hosted by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage – Khorfakkan Branch, the participants toured the museum’s galleries, exploring a range of traditional crafts, along with the tools and materials used in their practice. They learned how these crafts embodied the skills and knowledge associated with the daily lives of their ancestors, reflecting their ability to adapt the local environment to meet their needs.
Creativity Inspired by Heritage
The visit featured a workshop entitled “Decorating the Heritage Bag”, which provided the girls with an opportunity to express their talents and showcase their artistic abilities through innovative designs blending the authenticity of traditional heritage with contemporary touches. The workshop also helped develop their manual skills and nurture their creative abilities.
Safafa: A Craft of the Ancestors
The participants were introduced to safafa, one of the UAE’s authentic traditional crafts, through a live demonstration by a craftswoman. She demonstrated techniques for weaving and shaping palm fronds to create traditional tools and handicrafts, highlighting the craft’s significance in the lives of previous generations and its cultural value as a reflection of their skills and close connection with the local environment.
The visit forms part of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s ongoing efforts to preserve Emirati cultural heritage, revive traditional crafts, and pass their knowledge and skills on to younger generations. These efforts seek to strengthen national identity, instil pride in the nation’s heritage among young girls, and encourage them to safeguard it for future generations.