Funun Arts Group and Novotel Suites Mall Avenue Mark World Ocean Day 2025 with a Powerful Artistic Statement
In an inspiring tribute to World Ocean Day 2025, Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, Dubai, unveiled a remarkable initiative titled “Rebalancing the Ocean: Coral Restoration Through Art.” This transformative event was more than an exhibition—it was a mission, a movement, and a message to the world, echoing the urgent need to protect and restore our fragile marine ecosystems.
Bringing together 15 established artists and 15 young visionaries, the event created a platform where art became activism, bridging generations and inspiring collective action through creativity.
The exhibition, held in the heart of Dubai at Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, showcased artworks that spoke the language of the ocean—its rhythm, its resilience, its cry for help. Each piece was a vivid reminder of the beauty that lies beneath the waves and the responsibility we all share to preserve it.
From vibrant corals to the haunting silhouettes of marine life, the art on display stirred emotion and reflection, urging every viewer to rethink their relationship with nature.
A Grand Opening with Purpose
The inauguration ceremony was graced by dignitaries and changemakers, including:
Hon. Sultana Farouq Kazim, Global Ambassador for UNESCO International Action AR and Fashion Designer, Dr. Mohammad Ali, CEO of Breathe Creativity, Mrs. Kusum Dutta, Philanthropist and Artist, Mr. Anjini Prakash Laitu, Renowned Pioneer Artist, Mr. Peter Ferrington, Artist and Environmentalist and Peter Gressman, Artforum UAE.
The highlight of the event was a powerful keynote address by Mr. Darryl Owen, CEO of Freestyle Divers and Founder of Project REEFrame, who emphasized the importance of coral reef restoration and the role of art in inspiring real-world change.
A unique feature of the event was the collaborative painting activity involving students from Delhi Private School, Sharjah, Ryan International School, Sharjah, and North American International School, Dubai. Artists and students came together to create two large-scale puzzle paintings that, when joined, formed mesmerizing masterpieces—symbols of unity, hope, and harmony between humanity and the ocean.
These artworks embodied the spirit of intergenerational collaboration, proving that when creativity meets purpose, boundaries dissolve, and impactful stories are born.
The young ambassadors of the event, Mohammad Azaan Mehtab Khan and Wali Mehtab Khan (Grade 3 and 1, Ryan International School), Maryam Sarfraz Khan (Grade 2, Delhi Private School), took to the stage with a heart-touching skit titled “Rebalancing the Ocean”, capturing the imagination of the audience, and delivering a poignant message: it is not too late to act.
As Shiba Khan, Founder of Funun Arts Group, eloquently expressed: “This is more than an exhibition—it’s a call to action. Each brushstroke is a visual pledge, a commitment to our planet’s well-being. Art has the extraordinary ability to transcend barriers and speak directly to the heart. When we create with intention, we do not just produce beauty—we ignite awareness, we spark dialogue, and we inspire transformation. ‘Rebalancing the Ocean’ is not just about showcasing talent; it is about using that talent as a force for environmental consciousness and change. Through creativity, we aim to awaken responsibility and nurture a sense of collective stewardship for our oceans and the future of our planet.”
Farah Khan, Co-founder of Funun Arts Group, added: “Our events are curated not just to be remembered, but to be deeply reflected upon—long after the last artwork is viewed. We believe that art has the power to not only evoke emotion but also instill purpose. By engaging students alongside established artists, we are creating a powerful intergenerational dialogue—where experience meets curiosity, and creativity becomes a shared language of change. This deliberate collaboration is our way of planting the seeds of awareness and responsibility early, nurturing young minds to grow into conscious, compassionate leaders. After all, they are not just the artists of tomorrow—they are the custodians of the planet’s future.”
Mr. Ghaith Dalati, General Manager of Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, shared his thoughts on the collaboration:
“This event beautifully aligns with the mission of NOVO 25, which is rooted in sustainability, community engagement, and innovation. At Novotel, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that go beyond hospitality—experiences that contribute to the greater good. ‘Rebalancing the Ocean’ reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief that art can be a powerful medium for awareness and change. Hosting this event is not just a celebration of creativity, but a reflection of our shared responsibility to protect our planet and foster a conscious, connected community.”
Participating artists included:
Catherine Miras, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Erum Durrani, Fatima Ahmmed, Kosha Tarsaria, Kusum Dutta, Leena Kewlani, Mallak Alwesh, Manasi Abhijit Deodhar, Maria Aamer Khan, Nataliia Venerova, Pari Sagar, Rayan Omer Hamed, Stuti Parikh, and Shiba Khan.
Young artists who made the event extra special were:
Aidan Shareef, Dharswana Durai, Kanishka Manikandan, Kavya Vishal, Maryam Sarfraz Khan, Naga Krithi Godem (Delhi Private School, Sharjah); Ali Yaseen, Areej Wahid, Romina Ramin Zeerati, Talia Isam (North American International School, Dubai); and Mohammed Azaan Mehtab Khan, Mohammed Wali Mehtab Khan (Ryan International School, Sharjah).
“Rebalancing the Ocean” is not merely an art showcase; it is a statement, a symbol, and a catalyst—igniting environmental consciousness through creative expression. It serves as a poignant reminder that the ocean unites us all, and through the universal language of art, we hold the power to protect what connects us.
About the Organizers:
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 art exhibitions, creative dialogues, and youth art forums, Funun Arts is known for promoting diversity and elevating community voices through visual art.
Novotel Suites Mall Avenue Dubai is a contemporary hotel situated in the Al Barsha district, directly opposite the Mall of the Emirates. Its prime location offers guests convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including the nearby Ski Dubai. The hotel is also within walking distance of the Mall of the Emirates and Sharaf DG metro stations, facilitating easy exploration of Dubai’s attractions.
