Latest news with #NovotelSharjahExpoCentre
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Art of determination, act of inclusion: Funun Arts Group hosts signal event
In a tribute to the human spirit and the universal language of art, Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, presented an international art exhibition titled 'Unspoken Words: Art Speaks Beyond Words'. The one-day event (May 16) united artistic excellence and inclusivity, featuring 20 professional artists from diverse backgrounds and 20 inspiring People of Determination, from the Build Your Tribe Foundation. Held in the culturally vibrant – and thoughtfully observant - emirate of Sharjah, a beacon of education and the arts, the exhibition was more than an art display or an immersive cultural event: it was a celebration of unspoken emotions, shared dreams, and invisible strength. The event embodied the belief that art can communicate what words often cannot — the never-say-die spirit and warm companionship of the human soul. Artworks depicting local scenes. The show highlighted emotions and expressions that are deeply felt yet are often difficult to articulate — inner joy, hidden resilience, silent grief, quiet hope, and untold dreams. Through brushstrokes, textures, colour and form, each participating artist and student of determination transformed their inner narratives into vivid works of art, offering viewers a glimpse into the strivings of the soul and the comradeship it offers. A highlight of the event was the Live Collaborative Painting Session. Here, professional artists and People of Determination worked side by side, creating art not just on canvas, but inside the heart of the community. The shared artistic journey was a living canvas of empathy and unity — it deepened bonds, fostered understanding, and erased the lines that divide people at different stages of growth and development. Creativity became a shared heartbeat, and the act of painting, became an enabling instrument of connection. The art exhibition featured a rich collection of works, from abstract compositions to storytelling. They not only showcased the technical brilliance of the artists but by providing an equal space for People of Determination, redefined the boundaries of a traditional art event, since it embraced all forms of expression. The occasion culminated in a felicitation ceremony — a homage to the dedication, talent and courage of the participants. Each artist, student and partner was honoured for their contribution to the event. The ceremony hailed the power of recognition in building confidence, especially among emerging talents and individuals of determination. Earlier, the opening ceremony was graced by several eminent personalities and champions of inclusivity and culture, including Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, veteran Emirati diplomat and designer of the UAE flag; Halima Al Sayegh, Honorary Ambassador of World Culture and Member of the Emirates Businesswomen Council; Abdujabar Ahmed Wiss, Dean of Student Affairs, Al Qasimia University; Ahmed Al Awadhi, renowned Emirati artist and businessman; Anjini Prakash Laitu, pioneer artist and mentor; Dr. Muhammad Yusuf, influencer and cultural advocate and Mehreen Sultana, Founder, Shiraz Kabab Khaas Restaurant. Restless sea and serene mosque. The distinguished guests amplified the exhibition's core message that art was a universal right and not a privilege, and inclusion was the heartbeat of a progressive society. Shiba Khan, Founder and Director of Funun Arts Group, said that 'Unspoken Words is a soulful initiative where art is the language of inclusion and empathy. Creativity has no boundaries — it simply is the purest expression of who we are.' Farah Khan, Co-founder, said that 'we believe that art has the power to heal, connect, and uplift. This event reflects that belief, especially seen in the radiant smiles and pride we witness from our People of Determination participants.' Joseph, F&B Manager, Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, said that 'we are committed to community-based cultural initiatives, and this collaboration reflects our core values of inclusion and creativity.' Nisha Tandon, Founder of Build Your Tribe Foundation, noted: 'Partnering with Funun Arts has been a beautiful journey. Providing People of Determination a platform to share their inner world through art not only empowers them, but inspires all of us.' The exhibition featured artworks by Ahmed Al Awadhi, Amira Azmy, Anjini Prakash Laitu, Avigyan Bhattacharya, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Duaa Mouaffaq, Faezeh Mohammad, Farah Khan, Mallak Alwesh, Monia Sahraoui, Mozhgan Afrisham, Mussarat Yasmin, Pari Sagar, Ranjisha Raghavan, Roya Vahidi, Sabrin Asker Ali, Sadia Fahad, Saida Banu, Shiba Khan, and Tumpa Banerjee. Shiba Khan (left) and Farah Khan at the event. Representing the hallmark of inclusive art, People of Determination artists included Aakriti Misri, Aaliyah Khan, Aarabdh Sendwal, Achint Babbar, Adnaan Master, Anoushka Tandon, Asmaa Syed Afaq, Ethan Blake Varin, G. B. Deepakram, G. B. Yeswanth Mehar Kumawat, Rohaan Augustine, Safa Ayisha Ghori, Savith De Silva, Sujith Shenoy, Taarini Viswanadha, Tasneem Khozema, Umer Faisal, and Yuvika Minoch. The event was supported by Shiraz Kabab Khaas Restaurant and Stories Lounge & Café. 'It is a movement, not just a moment,' said Shiba Khan and Farah Khan. 'Unspoken Words is more than a title — it is a movement that points the way to inclusivity, guides similarly minded art lovers, creates a blueprint for inclusive art advocacy, nurtures dialogue without voice, celebrates inclusion without boundaries, and tells stories that often remain untold. It is a testament to what is possible when creativity meets compassion, where every brushstroke becomes an act of empowerment.' Funun Arts Group is a leading UAE-based platform that champions art as a universal language of connection, empowerment, and education. With over 10 years of curating exhibitions, creative dialogue and youth art forums, the Group promotes diversity and works to elevate community voices through visual art. Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, part of Accor group, is committed to cultural collaboration, local engagement and creating inclusive spaces for transformative events.
Gulf Today
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Alif Art & Culture Exhibition ushers Ramadan with group cultural show
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, is presenting the Alif Art & Culture Exhibition, a celebration of Ramadan, spirituality and artistic talent (Feb. 21, through April) at the Novotel premises. The third edition of the series merges art and Sufi poetry, drawing inspiration from renowned Persian poet and mystic, Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi. The event commenced with a welcome, inviting guests to embark on an immersive journey where faith, culture and art intertwined. The introductory speech, delivered by Shiba Khan, Funun Arts Group Co-Founder, shed light on the deep connection between spirituality and artistic expression. Her words paved a pathway to the art exhibition being held on the mezannine floor of the hotel, featuring works that echo themes of peace, love and devotion to the divine. Robin Solomon, General Manager of Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, said that 'Ramadan is a time of reflection, gratitude and unity, and the Alif Art & Culture Exhibition beautifully captures its essence through colours, calligraphy, and emotive strokes of talented artists.' Each artwork, he said, profoundly resonated with themes of faith and spirituality, portraying the human heart's journey towards divine connection. Shiba Khan elaborated on the exhibition's title. 'Alif, the first letter of the Arabic alphabet,' she said, 'symbolises our direct connection to the Almighty. This year's edition pays homage to Rumi, whose poetry continues to guide and inspire spiritual and personal growth.' Selected verses of Rumi recited during the event reinforced themes of self-discovery and divine love. Some of them were: 'The very centre of your heart is where life begins. The most beautiful place on Earth'; 'this universe is not outside of you. Look inside yourself, everything that you want, you already are'; 'your heart knows the way, run in that direction'; 'you are the soul of the universe, and your name is Love.' Rumi's poetry, characterised by lyrical beauty, spiritual longing and rich symbolism, has influenced generations of seekers. His verses convey the interconnectedness of humanity and the divine and his words offer heft to the exhibition, which is also a visual interpretation of Sufi mysticism. Elevating the opening ceremony was a captivating musical performance by Seyed Amir Hossein Hasaninia, popularly known as Mr. Dervish. A celebrated poet, composer, musician and mystic, Mr. Dervish has spent over two decades exploring the intersection of art and spirituality. His performances blend jazz, Middle Eastern music and Sufi and contemporary dance, to create immersive and transcendent experiences. His vocals during the evening were accompanied by a dance rendition by one of his students. Farah Khan, Co-Founder and Creative Designer of Funun Arts Group, underlined that 'the soulful performance was not just an artistic display, but a transformative journey, striving to engage the audience in deep reflection and meditation.' Mr. Dervish's powerful vocals and the whirling dervish dance symbolising devotion and surrender, reinforced the event's overarching themes. It also left attendees calling for more. The exhibition welcomed a notable lineup of guests, including Halima Al Sayegh, Ahmed Al Awadhi, Meena Kamal, Kusum Dutta, Atul Panase, Anjani Prakash Laitu, Vikas Bhargav, Majida Nasreddin and Rayad Kamal, among others. Their presence underscored the event's significance for the cultural and artistic landscape of the Emirates. The art show features the works of 22 artists, each offering their interpretation of the theme. Participating artists include Abid Alam, Ahmed Al Awadhi, Almas Abdul Ghaffar, Ana S. Gad, Anjini Prakash Laitu, Dhruti Vrajesh Shah, Dr. Riya Shah, Farah Khan, Hana Al Haffar, Hina Raheel, Mohammed Aslam Hussain, Monia Sahraoui, Osama Mansour, Pari Sagar, Rabia Hafsa Javed, Shazia Jashim, Shiba Khan, Sobia Dar, Soobika Fawad, Subia Khan Hussain, Walaa Mohamed Pasha and Wardah Asad. Each artist blends traditional techniques and contemporary interpretations, encouraging the audience to engage with the deeper spiritual essence embedded in their works. As the inaugural event concluded, the organisers expressed their gratitude to artists, performers, guests and supporters, whose contributions, they said, 'transformed the evening into an oasis of artistic and spiritual harmony.' Halima Al Sayegh, in her address, said that 'may this exhibition inspire, enlighten and bring us closer to the values of Ramadan — compassion, reflection, and unity. Let us cherish this moment, connect through art, and celebrate the power of creativity to bring people together.' The occasion ended with a commemorative group photo; attendees then explored the artworks, engaging with the narratives woven into each objet d'art. One of the aims of the exhibition is to reaffirm the role of art as a bridge between the material and the spiritual. 'Each edition of Alif Art & Culture Exhibition aspires to deepen the exploration of artistic expression, faith and human experience,' said Shiba and Farah Khan, who are also sisters. With wishes for a blessed Ramadan, they drew the event to a close. Funun Arts Group is an inclusive arts community dedicated to promoting and supporting artists in the UAE and beyond. Through exhibitions, workshops and collaborative events, its goal is to add to the vibrant arts scene of the UAE, providing a platform for artists to showcase their work. The group is known for its commitment to nurturing both established and emerging artists, creating opportunities for dialogue, collaboration and creative expression. Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre is one of the leading hospitality destinations in Sharjah, offering quality facilities and services. It is committed to supporting cultural initiatives, which mandate is fulfilled by its partnership with Funun Arts Group.
