Art Dubai: Sparking Creativity in the Heart of the UAE
Introduction to the A.R.M. Holding Children’s Programme
Today marks a significant milestone in the UAE as the fifth edition of the A.R.M. Holding Children’s Programme launches across schools nationwide. Coinciding with World Creativity and Innovation Day—a day celebrated by the United Nations to highlight the importance of creativity in human development—this initiative aims to inspire the minds of young learners across the region.
Collaborative Artistic Journeys
This year’s program brings an exciting twist by introducing a unique collaboration between two distinguished artists: Peju Alatise, a celebrated contemporary African artist and Nigeria’s representative at the 2017 Venice Biennale, and Alia Hussain Lootah, an esteemed Emirati artist and educator. Together, they will delve into the theme of “Future of Water,” facilitating hands-on workshops that will run until June 2025.
Notably, this collaboration signifies the UAE’s largest cultural initiative, reaching over 30,000 children since its inception in 2021.
Engaging Artistic Workshops
Designed for children aged 5 to 17, the workshops will utilize clear plexiglass sheets for creative projects, allowing participants to paint and create mixed-media collages. As these sheets store water, they provide a dynamic interaction with children’s artwork, reshuffling and transforming their visual expressions. This innovative method symbolizes the evolving relationship humans have with water and its significance in our lives today.
Empowering Educators
This edition also enhances its offerings by including a masterclass for educators, which will be led by both artists and industry professionals. This initiative aims to equip teachers with innovative strategies to foster creativity in the classroom. Furthermore, a panel discussion during Art Dubai 2025 will convene educators to reflect on the crucial role of arts education and its impact on shaping culturally aware future generations.
Bridging Art and Education
The A.R.M. Holding Children’s Programme is a collaborative effort between Art Dubai, the leading international art fair in the Middle East, and A.R.M. Holding, a private investment firm committed to cultural enrichment.
Voices of Commitment
H.E. Mohammad Saeed Al Shehhi, CEO of A.R.M. Holding, expresses the essence of this initiative: “Our support for the arts transcends mere collection; it resonates with our mission to cultivate vibrant, interconnected communities. This program reinforces our dedication to culture and education, shaping the next wave of leaders and creative thinkers who will define the UAE’s future.”
On the other hand, Benedetta Ghione, Executive Director of Art Dubai, emphasizes: “Nurturing children’s creativity from an early age is of paramount importance. We’re proud to collaborate with local and international artists, offering students rich experiences that inspire their creative journeys.”
Artists’ Insights and Perspectives
Both artists share profound insights into the project’s significance. Peju Alatise remarks, “Water is a vital element of life. Through this program, we empower children to view it as a creative medium, offering them the chance to express their hopes and inquiries about the future. It provides a unique lens through which to reimagine our responsibilities toward our shared environment.”
Meanwhile, Alia Hussain Lootah reflects on art’s transformative ability to forge connections. “In the UAE, water is not just a resource; it is intertwined with our culture and history. This program offers children a way to engage with these ideas, helping them appreciate water’s importance through interactive workshops.”
Conclusion
The A.R.M. Holding Children’s Programme not only aims to cultivate creativity but also fosters a deeper connection between young minds and their environment. With strong leadership and innovative approaches, it is shaping a bright artistic future for the UAE, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped to engage with the world around them.
For more information about the program and its initiatives, visit A.R.M. Holding.
