ABU DHABI // Visitors to a camel-themed art exhibition today helped to paint some of the pieces.
The display, Do they not look at the camels, how they are created?, by artist Hana Ammar was popular among visitors to the market at the Camel Mazayna at this year's Al Dhafra Festival.
Organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, the festival kicked off last Saturday and will run until December 29 in Madinat Zayed, in Abu Dhabi's Western Region.
The exhibit's title was inspired by a verse from the Quran that emphasises a camel's qualities, such as patience, intelligence and pride.
Ms Ammar used an airbrush to depict camels' beauty, focusing on the pure-bred Assayel and the dark Majahim camels.
Other paintings show the roots of Arab heritage through henna designs. Visitors were able to take part in painting a long canvas of camels.
"We came [up] with the idea of painting the longest canvas of camels to document the festival," said Ms Ammar. "All visitors have the opportunity to paint with acrylic colours [using] airbrush techniques."
Contributors were allowed to sign their work of art.
Ms Ammar said the exhibition aimed to preserve the values, traditions and Arab heritage associated with camels.
"These camels have always played a crucial role in the lives of people in the Arabian Peninsula," she said. "Strong but beautiful animals, camels have been able to adjust to the harsh environment thanks to their loyalty, patience and perseverance."
