Inside the vintage school bus that's a mobile art studio for children

UAE resident creates L’Atelier Bus, which offers hands-on workshops in baking, pottery and crafts

Ouiam Baruncio's creative dreams have become reality after she turned a vintage American school bus into a travelling art studio for children.

Known as L’Atelier Bus, her unique initiative offers young learners across the UAE the chance to explore hands-on activities such as baking, pottery, sewing and arts and crafts – all within the retrofitted space of her vehicle.

From a global citizen to a bus full of dreams

Born in France and raised in Geneva, Baruncio’s path to entrepreneurship has been anything but unconventional. “I didn’t enjoy school much, but I’ve always been passionate about learning through experience and working with my hands,” Baruncio, 31, says.

When she was 16, she knew she wanted a career where she could explore her creativity and began studying hospitality. Her career spanned various fields, including pastry-making, jewellery, aviation and international organisations such as the United Nations and the Global Fund. “I’ve always been a quick learner, and I love challenging myself with new experiences,” she adds.

Her journey didn’t stop there. After spending a year in Australia to improve her English and travelling to more than 45 countries, she returned to Geneva, where she continued to develop her skills and passions. However, three years ago, she moved to the UAE to embark on a new chapter. “Everywhere I went, I sought out activities that challenged me to create something with my hands,” she says.

Ouiam Baruncio is the founder of L'Atelier Bus. Andy Scott / The National

From motherhood to a meaningful project

While her experiences gave her a broad skill set and a deep appreciation for creativity, it was the birth of her son Aaron that sparked the idea for her most meaningful venture. “After my son was born, I wanted to build something that combined my interests and could benefit children,” Baruncio explains.

Initially considering a traditional studio, she realised she wanted to offer something unique. Her love for campervans and travel inspired the concept of a mobile studio.

“I thought, why not turn a school bus into a creative space? It combines my love for hands-on activities like baking and pottery with something that can truly impact children’s lives,” she recalls.

Baruncio credits her diverse career and travel experiences for shaping her creativity and adaptability, which were essential in developing the bus project. “The idea of a mobile studio felt perfect because it brought together all the things I’ve learned and loved over the years,” she says.

At the same time, motherhood played a significant role in directing her focus toward children. “I never thought I’d work with kids, but having my son changed my perspective," she adds. "It made me want to share my passions with the next generation."

A creative space on wheels

Baruncio’s journey to establish L’Atelier Bus began with a lengthy search for the perfect vehicle. Her dream was to find an American-made vintage school bus, which eventually led her to Saudi Arabia. After multiple trips and setbacks, she found what she was looking for in Dammam.

The bus caters to bakers, potters, sewers and those interested in arts and crafts. Andy Scott / The National

“It felt like finding a needle in a haystack,” she says. “Seeing all the buses parked together was overwhelming – I knew I was on the right track.”

The bus was transported to the UAE, where it was converted into a fully functional studio, complete with 10 workstations, ovens, a sink, a hotplate and even a toilet. The process required navigating regulatory challenges, but Baruncio’s determination eventually paid off.

Since launching L’Atelier Bus in April 2022, Baruncio has hosted workshops at schools, community events, and private gatherings. The first workshop, held in November 2022 at Damac Hills, was a defining moment. “Seeing the children’s excitement when they stepped into the bus was unforgettable,” she says.

The bus offers children the chance to learn baking, pottery, sewing and arts and crafts, with packages available for private events such as birthdays. Prices range from Dh2,000 to Dh4,500, depending on the level of customisation. Schools also regularly collaborate with Baruncio, with her first major partnership involving 80 children in Fujairah.

Inspiring future generations through art

While she currently operates one bus, Baruncio plans to expand across the UAE to reach more communities. “My dream is to have multiple buses, each bringing creativity to a different part of the country,” she says.

Motherhood was one of the factors that inspired Baruncio to create the art studio on a bus. Andy Scott / The National

Through her innovative approach, she aims to transform how children experience art and culture in the country, ensuring creativity and tradition remain accessible to all.

For Baruncio, L’Atelier Bus is more than a business – it is also a way to inspire the next generation. “Each activity is rooted in tradition, whether it is baking or pottery,” she says. “I want to show children the joy of creating with their hands while preserving cultural heritage.”