Sharjah, UAE – Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, proudly presents “Me – My Identity as an Artist,” a captivating group art exhibition showcasing the works of 25 talented artists from diverse backgrounds. The exhibition, running from September to November 2024, features 30 thought-provoking artworks that delve into the deeply personal and multifaceted identities of each artist through their creative expressions.
This landmark exhibition is more than a simple display of artistic talent—it’s a profound exploration of individuality, creativity, and the narratives that shape each artist’s identity. By uniting artists from various disciplines and cultural backgrounds, “Me – My Identity as an Artist” provides visitors with a unique opportunity to engage with the many layers of identity, expressed through visual mediums ranging from painting to mixed media.
The exhibition’s opening ceremony, held on September 6, 2024, was a resounding success, drawing an audience of art enthusiasts, collectors, and esteemed guests. Among the notable attendees were prominent figures such as Ms. Sultana Farouq Kazim, Ms. Samia Saleh, Ms. Abeer Adani, Mr. Ahmed Al Awadhi, Mr. Mohammad Yusuf, Mr. Atul Panase, and Mr. Anjini Prakash Laitu. Their presence underscored the importance of this exhibition in promoting cultural dialogue, artistic expression, and the exploration of personal identity through art.
The management team from Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, including Hotel Manager Mr. Robin and Food & Beverage Manager Mr. Joseph, extended their support to Funun Arts Group and the participating artists. Both spoke of their admiration for the exhibition’s theme and the significance of providing a platform for artists to share their unique voices.
Mr. Robin, a passionate art lover, shared his reflections: “Art and identity are inextricably intertwined, as the creations of an artist draw inspiration from personal experiences and the broader human condition. With each exhibition organized by Funun Arts Group, we encounter new perspectives, making each event an educational experience for all.”
The exhibition features 25 participating artists, each offering their own interpretation of identity. Among them are Abid Alam, Ahmed Al Awadhi, Anjini Prakash Laitu, Aparna Shere, Asma Abdelrahman Mohamed Siddig, Chandralekha Dubey, Debra S. Mascarenhas, Dr. Noor Almola, Dr. Sangeeta Parashar, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Duaa Mouaffaq Nablse, Elham Kalashak, Farah Khan, Gulnaz Ansari, Jagruti Sanjay Patni, Khaled Ali Khaled, Mozhgan Afrisham, Pari Sagar, Soobika Fawad, Subia Khan Hussain, Wardah Asad, and Yashi Khatanhar. Each artist has contributed a unique piece that reflects their individual identity, personal experiences, and creative journey.
Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, the directors and founders of Funun Arts Group, eloquently described the exhibition’s thematic focus: “Identity through art is a dynamic and multifaceted process. It’s about using various artistic mediums as channels to communicate the essence of who I am—the unique amalgamation of experiences, beliefs, and emotions that define an artist’s identity. Artistic expression becomes a language through which you communicate
your innermost thoughts and feelings. It serves as a mirror, not only reflecting identity but also inviting viewers to engage in a dialogue with their own sense of self.”
One of the artist Gulnaz Ansari, who reflected on her artistic process: “Through the careful selection of mediums, I choose the tools that best resonate with my identity and the messages I wish to convey. Whether it’s the vivid strokes of a paintbrush or the intricate details of a painting, each medium carries its own unique power in the realm of identity expression.”
In addition to showcasing established artists, Funun Arts Group has also provided a platform for emerging talents. Two budding artists, Ms. Subia Khan and Ms. Wardah, presented their works in this exhibition, marking their debut in the UAE’s vibrant art scene. Both artists received warm praise from attendees and guests for their fresh perspectives and creative interpretations of identity.
Esteemed guests from the opening ceremony shared their reflections on the significance of the exhibition. Ms. Samia, Ms. Abeer, and Ms. Sultana Kazim remarked on how each artwork reflects not only the artist’s personal identity but also the broader societal context in which it was created. “Each work of art created by an individual artist reflects a time period, a context, a stage in their life. In this way, art allows for the simultaneous creation and preservation of personal and communal identity,” they said.
Legendary Emirati artist Mr. Rukni also attended the event as a special guest and a participating artist, spoke on the importance of art as a form of communication: “My art serves as a form of communication through which I connect with others. It invites viewers to embark on their own journeys of identity reflection, encouraging them to contemplate their own experiences and beliefs. In this way, art becomes a catalyst for meaningful conversations and connections.”
Funun Arts Group has long been recognized for its commitment to fostering artistic talent and creating inclusive platforms for artists to share their work. This exhibition is yet another testament to their dedication to promoting cultural exchange and dialogue through the arts. By collaborating with Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, a leading hospitality destination in the UAE, Funun Arts Group has ensured that “Me – My Identity as an Artist” reaches a wide audience, offering visitors an opportunity to engage with the deeply personal and universal themes of identity.
The exhibition will remain open to the public until November 2024, offering art lovers, tourists, and the general public ample time to explore the works on display. Each piece invites viewers to embark on their own introspective journey, engaging with the narratives, emotions, and experiences conveyed through the artists’ unique voices.
About Funun Arts Group
Funun Arts Group is a dynamic and inclusive arts community dedicated to promoting and supporting artists in the UAE and beyond. Through exhibitions, workshops, and collaborative events, Funun Arts Group aims to foster a vibrant arts scene and provide 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.
About Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre
Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre is a leading hospitality destination in Sharjah, offering world-class facilities and services. Committed to supporting cultural initiatives, Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre is proud to partner with Funun Arts Group in promoting the arts and providing a platform for creative expression.
