Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
More than 240 students from across Abu Dhabi are proudly showcasing their artworks at this year's Mawhibaty exhibition, which opened on May 22 and runs through June 30.
Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the exhibition features over 500 captivating pieces that explore a diverse range of themes-from everyday moments to the rich heritage of UAE culture - all expressed through the fresh perspectives of young artists.
Some students poured their creativity into paintings, while others crafted intricate models and structures. Traditional calligraphy finds its place alongside contemporary graphic design, highlighting a wide spectrum of artistic expression.
Now in its eighth edition, the Mawhibaty talent development programme continues to nurture emerging artistic talent, supporting DCT Abu Dhabi's mission to establish the emirate as a leading hub for cultural and artistic excellence.
Danah Kamel, a Grade 11 student at Dalma school, described the programme as a turning point in her artistic journey.
"The programme taught me punctuality, teamwork, and helped me explore Emirati heritage and how to reflect it in a modern artistic style," she told Aletihad.
She chose to paint the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explaining: "It's the largest mosque by area, and I used acrylics with white tape to separate the colours for more precision."
Ola Ghassan, a 12th-grade student at Al Mawaheb School, spent up to two months creating her sustainable art entry for the programme: a model of Qasr Al Hosn made from recycled materials.
"We used cardboard from our studio and mixed sand with acrylic to create texture," she said.
Supervised by their teacher and equipped with studio tools, Ghassan shared how the experience helped her grow artistically: "I used to draw with pencil only, now I work with acrylic and have created six paintings."
Salem El Adawi, a Grade 4 student at Al Danna School, is another eco-artist. He drew a traditional Emirati gate using tissue paper.
With a clear determination to grow, he said, "I want to continue improving until I become the best."
Year-round Training
Noora Al Hosani, an eighth-grader at Dalma School, used oil paint for the first time, but the finished work was incredible - a detailed painting of a falcon, a symbol of Emirati strength and identity.
"I learnt patience through the programme. Art takes days, not hours," Al Hosani said.
Under the Mawhibaty programme, students receive training at leading cultural centres throughout the year. These include sites like Bait Al Oud, Al Qattara Arts Centre, and the Art Studio.
Some even go on overseas trips, like Al Hosani, who went to Vienna. This experience, she said, helped shape her artistic vision for the falcon painting.
Maram Hamad, a Grade 7 student at Al Bahya Common School, presented a rose inside a glass bell, symbolising beauty and femininity.
The programme, she said, helped her shift from pencil to oil painting and gave her confidence.
"I used to copy my sisters, then suddenly surpassed them," she told Aletihad. "Now, they call me an artist."
Sama Abdulbari, a Grade 8 student at Al Dhanna Schools, has participated in the programme since 2019, refining her craft every year.
"Each year, I improved in drawing, colouring, shading, and artistic thinking," she said.
"We use the language of art to translate and express our ideas."
A Celebration of Culture
Many of the artworks at the exhibition are inspired by the vibrant cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi, proving that the emirate continues to be a rich source of creativity for its emerging artists.
Omar Al Ghanem, a Grade 6 student at Al Falah Academy, explored his passion for Arabic calligraphy through abstract Thuluth script compositions.
As he presented his work at the exhibition, Al Ghanem expressed his gratitude. "Without this programme, I wouldn't have reached this artistic level," he said.
Abdelrahman Nasser, a fifth-grader at Al Dhanna School, drew inspiration from Abu Dhabi's seascape to produce his artwork "Fingerprint of Love".
Through the Mawhibaty programme, he said, he learnt how to express his thoughts through art.
Adam Wael, another Grade 5 student from Al Dhanna School, celebrated the UAE's maritime heritage in his work and designed a traditional boat using natural materials.
"I created a boat from paper and sand to showcase the UAE's heritage," he said. "I'm proud to be part of Mawhibaty and always excited to develop my skills."
Zayed Al Hossani, who is in Grade 2 at Dalma School, painted a tribute to Dalma's cultural life, inspired by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region.
Al Hossani was moved by His Highness' steadfast support for traditional boat races in Dalma.
"I used fabric, palm fibre, and wood to reflect the spirit of Dalma's sea and heritage," he said.
For these young artists, the Mawhibaty programme has been a powerful motivator to continue pursuing their passion and keep getting better year after year. They encourage more students to take part in the initiative.
"The support and flexibility truly help you grow as an artist," said Hamad.
