Creativity Meets Innovation.. The 4th Edition of the Annual Student Art Show Inspires a Generation in Dubai

Dubai, UAE

The Annual Student Art Show, now in its 4th Edition, lit up the Study World Campus in Academic City, Dubai. Organized by Funun Arts Group, Youth Creative Minds Hub, Young Times and powered by Khaleej Times, the event reaffirmed its position as the largest student art show in the region, drawing participants, collaborators, and audiences from across the globe.

With its theme, “Art and Innovation,” the event aligned seamlessly with the UAE’s forward-looking vision, “We the UAE 2031.” It brought together over 1,000 students, 50 nationalities, and 40 volunteers, guided by the expertise of 35 artist mentors, for a truly memorable celebration of talent, creativity, and technology.

The two-day extravaganza unfolded in the sprawling and picturesque Study World Campus, which served as the perfect backdrop for this ambitious initiative. The venue’s expansive facilities provided a vibrant and dynamic space for art exhibitions, performances, and interactive workshops, setting the stage for inspiration and learning.

The mega event was inaugurated in the presence of numerous dignitaries from various segments. His Excellency Yaqoob Al Ali, Chairman of the Al Ali Group of Compony, Abdulllah Mohammed Al Maainah, The man behind the design of UAE Flag in 1971., Mr. Bijender Singh, Consul (Consular, Labour & MADAD), Her Excellency Laila Rahhal Al Itfani, A goodwill Ambassador of Business Gate, UAE and Founder & president of I AM AFRICA Platform, Mr. Adul Jabbar Weiss, of Deanship of Student Affairs, Supervisor, Student Activities & Arts, Harjyot Oberoi Bohra, Head of Marketing, Khaleej Times, Sultana Kazim Farouq Kazim,Global Ambassador of UNESCO International Action Art, Mr. Ahmed Al Awadhi, Emirati Artist and Businessman, Mr. Robin Soloman, General Manger, Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, Mr. Ahmed Alhosani ,UAE’S First Classical Singer, Mr. Arogya Reddy, Principal, Ambassador school, Sharjah, Mr. Justin Allen McCauley, Principal North American International School, Dubai, Ms. Jennifer Rose McCauley, Ms. Hafsa, Allen house Public School, India, Ms. Zehra, American International School of Creative Science, Ms. Ayesha Sheikh, Director of AES Edu Marketing events, Ms. Rajani Nalla,Director,Trusity, Ms. Nada Al Barazi and Mr. Aslam Noor. Along with them were the huge guest list.

 Mr. Khalil Abdul Wahid, Mr. Faisal Abdul Qader, Mr. Akbar Sahib, Mr. Atul Panase were the judges for this mega event. They are the most eminent artists, who are known for their achievements and work towards art. They said:” this is a tremendous platform for the students to showcase their creativity and it was very challenging for us to take out 15 winners, as they all were excellent. We would like to say that exhibiting on such big platform makes them a winner itself.

The event commenced with a ceremony steeped in tradition and creativity, capturing the essence of the UAE’s diverse heritage and its future-forward vision. Azaan Mehtab Khan, Maryam Sarfraz Khan, and Wali Mehtab Khan started the event by talking about the theme of the event with the reference of artists who were inventors. Followed by the Quran recitation by Ibrahim Kharuri and Maymuna Bint Adam Khan.

 Mr. Ahmed Alhosani, UAE’s first classical singer, delivered a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, moving the audience with his rich and emotive voice. Students from Cedar School, Dubai, brought cultural heritage to life through their graceful movements, showcasing the UAE’s rich traditions in a modern context.

The event continued with spellbinding performances, including contemporary dances by Dance Central, and an inclusive showcase by SNF Development Center, emphasizing the transformative power of inclusivity. A fashion show celebrating historical artists and inventors added a unique dimension to the festivities.

A thought-provoking Youth Talk segment brought together emerging leaders and creative minds to discuss how innovation and art can shape a brighter future. Youth speakers were Kiara Kaur, Muhammad Sameer, Aarush Anand, Angelina George, Louise Anae Charrier, Afsheen Banu Sheikh, Krisha Maniyar, Aisha Saad, Ali Imran, Haya Sajjad, Rojeen Waleed, Voransh Aggarwal, Khwahish Punjabi and Maryam Ezzi.

The success of this monumental event was made possible by the collaborative efforts of many 35 Mentors, whose expertise and passion ignited inspiration among participants. Aditi Jaju, Amina Naeem, Chandana Vinekar, Dr. Amal Izzat, Dr. Hafsa Bano, Dr. Nafisa Sayed, Kadambini Choubey, Kashish Rabban, Kavita Sriram, Madhuri Musani, Maria Komal Abie, Marwa Mohammed, Mussarat Yasmin Abid, Paulomi Kiritsinh Rana, Rafah Abdul Razzak, Rehab Aly Badr, Ritika Shah, Saida Bano, Saima Furqan, Shaima Shawky, Shatha Jamal, Soobika Fawad, Stefania Pomillo, Sumedha Randev Goel, Vijita Moray, Yuvika Garg, Bushra Furquan, Dr. Mankush Srivastava, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Perihan Marwan.

Speakers shared their knowledge and experience, the prominent speakers were Dr. Hafsa Bano, Yuvika Garg, Joshua Quinn & Zahra Kamran Khan. Team of 40 Volunteers added colors to the show with their dedication to ensuring the smooth execution of the event.

Founders Shiba Khan and Farah Khan described ASAS as a transformative experience: “Through visual arts, cultural performances, installations, and interactive exhibitions, ASAS created a platform that promotes dialogue, reflection, and inspiration. The event encouraged visitors to embrace innovation and think critically about the future.”

Co-founder Mohd. Huzaifa Khan of Youth Creative Minds Hub added, “ASAS 2024 was a celebration of talent, where students became catalysts for change, showcasing their abilities in art, innovation, and leadership.”

At the heart of ASAS 2024 was an awe-inspiring exhibition of over 1,000 artworks. These creations, crafted by students from diverse backgrounds, celebrated the fusion of creativity and technology. Visitors witnessed how young artists interpreted the theme “Art and Innovation,” blending imagination with modern tools to address contemporary issues.

The event also offered more than 50 interactive workshops, fostering creativity and hands-on learning. Highlights included:

• Plant your Passion: Organized by The Green Revolution, this workshop emphasized sustainability by merging art with environmental stewardship.
• STEAM Workshop by Trusity: Participants explored the intersection of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math through engaging activities.
• Robotics Workshop by Unique World Robotics: Students delved into robotics, learning to integrate technology into their artistic endeavors.
• Photography Workshop by Nikon: Budding photographers honed their storytelling skills through the lens.
• Lippan Workshop by Art Splash: Participants explored the traditional Indian art of mud-mirror designs, reimagined with a contemporary twist.
• Mentors also led specialized sessions, nurturing technical skills across various disciplines such as painting, sculpture, and mixed media.

The success of ASAS 2024 was fueled by the collaboration and teamwork of the hardworking mentors, artists, volunteers, and sponsors.

The event was also made possible by generous contributions from sponsors: Study World Campus provided a stunning venue for this creative showcase. Danube Building Materials created unique, eco-friendly trophies made from 100% recycled plastic. World Art Dubai, Reem Gallery, Art Forum UAE, Silicon Central Mall, Brownie point and Unique World Robotics sponsored awards for top winners. Skribl Box and Pothos green sponsored the art supplies for the workshop and Vhip N Vhisk sponsored the food.

Creative installations designed by Speed Performance Building Contracting LLC and Al Saqf Al Lamea Technical Services added a touch of innovation to the venue’s ambiance.

The competition culminated in the recognition of exceptional talent. Among the top winners were:

• Exceptionally talent award was given to Nazmin Rasheed,
• Outstanding participation from 4 consecutive years to International School of Creative Science, Muweileh, Sharjah.

Category 1:

• Riyana Shah, Safa Community School, Dubai
• Amaira Khushalani, Ambassador International Academy, Dubai
• Minha Ali, Delhi Private School, Sharjah

Category 2:

• Zaria Iftekhar Malik, Dubai Gem Private School, Dubai
• Emilia Amedeo, Smart Vision School, Dubai
• Mubashir Ahmed Jawad, Al Amal English High School, Sharjah

Category 3:

• Hamdan Lootah, Al Mawakeb Al Khawaneej, Dubai
• Riya Chawla, Dubai International Academy
• Daniika Meganathan, Dubai Gem Private School

Category 4:

• Haya Sajjad, International School of Creative Science, Sharjah
• Jishnu Ruchir Bhardwaj, Dubai Gem Private School
• Faria Mohammed, International School of Creative Science

Global Category Winners:

• Shamsa Salim Abdullah AlBusaidi, Scientific College of Design, Oman
• Pranavi Sridharan, Indian School Muscat
• Sweta Guchait, United Public School, India

As the curtains fell on ASAS 2024, the event left a profound message: the future of art lies in innovation, and the future of innovation is in the hands of young visionaries. By celebrating diversity, imagination, and technological integration, ASAS has cemented its role as a beacon of creativity in the UAE and beyond.

Parents, mentors, and dignitaries alike praised the event, expressing pride in the participants’ accomplishments. A parent aptly remarked, “This platform allows our children to dream, innovate, and build a future we can all be proud of.”

For more information about the Annual Student Art Show and future events, contact Funun Arts Group or visit their website at www.fununartsgroup.com