Art classes in nature: Maysan teacher inspires students through outdoor creativity

MAYSAN — In an innovative approach to arts education, teacher Du’aa Mohammed has taken her students beyond the classroom walls and into the orchards surrounding their school in the village of Qasim Mazal, Al-Mishrah sub-district, Maysan.

For 12 years, Du’aa has been conducting outdoor art lessons, encouraging her students to express their creativity through nature-inspired paintings, which are later showcased at the school’s annual art exhibition.

“The idea was to provide an open environment for students to draw inspiration from the natural beauty surrounding them,” Du’aa Mohammed told 964media. “Whether they’re painting landscapes, characters from anime films, or crafting with natural materials like palm fronds, branches, and clay, the goal is to nurture their artistic talents.”

The annual school art exhibition has become a platform for these young artists to present their work to the community.

Reyah Ahmed, one of the students, expressed her enthusiasm for the outdoor art lessons. “Our teacher always surprises us with creative activities. She teaches us techniques like blending colors and using light and shadow effectively. I love art class and have several paintings that I’ll proudly display at the exhibition.”

Hussein Maytham, another student, shared his passion for drawing nature and animals. “We’ve learned how to use light and shadow in our art, which has made our drawings more professional. I especially enjoy creating circular drawings that capture details like the sun and trees.”

Mohammed Firas added, “We often come to this place to draw. Our teacher encourages us with small rewards, and we work together to create beautiful landscapes for the exhibition.”