[ad_1]
Last updated: Sunday, May 7, 2023 at 9:56pm
Historic space missions of Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi, traditional jewellery, the local environment – these are some of the main themes of the National Identity Initiative exhibition in the visual arts.
Organized by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and held at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the event showcased over 500 artworks by Emirati students in a variety of styles.
The pieces incorporate local inspirations such as Emirati fashion, jewellery, sand, Al Sadu, Talli, palm fronds, shells, coins and pearls.
The program aims to equip Emirati national students in private schools in the emirate and express their reflections on the country’s identity, heritage, culture and values.
In an interview with Khaleej Times, ADEK Outreach Program Manager Linda Wannous explained how the program develops students’ understanding, perspective and appreciation of Emirati traditions, culture and heritage.
“National identity programs and initiatives have been developed to foster greater awareness and acceptance of Emirati identity among our young Emirati nationals,” she said.
“The projects cover four main areas: Arts and Culture, Sports and Excursions, AlMajalis, and Identity-Oriented Curriculum Integration. In line with ADEK’s ongoing goal of creating a diverse pool of human capital to help realize Abu Dhabi’s cultural and creative Aimed at the goals of the Industrial Strategy, the program prepares Emirati students to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers and active global citizens who are connected to their cultural heritage.”
It also recognizes gifted students and prepares them to represent the UAE at local and international events by enhancing their artistic abilities and skills.
In addition, it provides a platform for visiting professors, trainers, artists and students to exchange knowledge, experience and artistic skills.
“Part of the Arts and Culture Stream, which provides students with the tools in the arts to express their national pride, build distinctive leadership personalities, and develop their personal identities. Arts are an expression of life and the program seeks to foster Students’ understanding of intrinsic and deep-rooted Emirati values,” Wannous added.
She said: “The photography section was particularly inspiring, with dozens of striking images expressing the vibrant culture of the UAE. The moments captured in these creative expressions are not only notable for their composition and beauty, or convey our youth How one sees the world around them through the lens of patriotism, they also reflect many aspects of UAE life, history and culture that we – as a young and ambitious nation – must do our best to preserve and protect for future generations.”
Students as young as 6 years old create work that repurposes traditional elements such as textiles and jewellery, creating truly inspiring compositions, depicting Sadou and the dome of the Louvre Museum with colored sticks.
“A variety of impressive paintings are on display, including one depicting the historic space mission of Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi, as well as a series of stunning collages Inspired by Najat Makki’s paintings, many of the artworks are dedicated to Emirati women and express their prominence in Emirati society,” Wannous added.
In the first edition of the programme, 32 art teachers participated in ‘Teaching the Teacher’ – a detailed training session that integrates elements of Emirati culture and values into the classroom.
In order to increase the impact, ADEK shares various teaching materials, art workshop ideas and teaching techniques with students to ensure the successful implementation of the project in the classroom.
“The project reinforced the Emirati heritage and artistic elements in the students’ work, deepening their understanding and appreciation of history, culture, traditions and values. This was achieved based on three core themes that are part of the UAE’s rich cultural heritage The foundations of “History and Heritage”, “Local Environment and Nature” and “Local Fashion”. It aims to instill a sense of national identity by providing opportunities for students to express and celebrate their cultural roots and national pride.
Some of the UAE’s leading artists, including Mohamed Al Astad, Najat Maki and Wafa Al Hosani, helped promote the program’s invaluable role in building a thriving local arts scene and artist ecosystem. “Our indigenous artist talent helps train teachers and introduces them to a variety of artistic techniques including drawing, colouring, sculpting, sculpting, collage and couture. The artistic style expresses elements of heritage and local context.”
Focusing on core themes integral to the UAE’s rich cultural heritage and our people’s history as coastal, inland and mountainous communities, the program explores the importance of the desert, agriculture and sea in the daily lives of Emiratis.
“Students created individual and group projects focusing on three themes: History and Heritage, Nature and Fashion. Works in the History and Heritage category delved into the country’s backstory and cultural identity, from archeology and architecture to crafts and Cityscapes, while entries in the Nature category highlight the country’s natural beauty and resources.To stimulate understanding of the role of culture in shaping contemporary society, the fashion theme allows students to combine traditional fabrics, colors, Jewelry and accessories are incorporated into the creative pieces,” she adds.
Also read:
UAE: Abu Dhabi announces new school rating system
Revealed: 11 ‘outstanding’ private schools in Abu Dhabi
UAE: Up to 3.94% tuition fee hike approved for Abu Dhabi schools
[ad_2]
Source link