National Art Expressions gives young artists platform to shine at Louvre Abu Dhabi

AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)

National Art Expressions at Louvre Abu Dhabi is putting the artwork of the emirate's students on the map. The exhibition, which is open to the public until December 8, from 10am to 8pm in the Louvre Abu Dhabi park, aims to nurture youth creativity, support future artistic talent, and strengthen cultural identity.

Over 1,500 artworks and 38 student performances are being showcased as part of National Art Expressions, which is the result of a year-long art programme developed by Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).

Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi, Executive Director of Talent Enablement Sector at ADEK, said the programme reached more than 7,000 students from over 200 schools across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. The students collaborated with 62 local and international artists through tailored workshops, mentorships and training sessions.

The programme invited the students to submit work across six creative media, including visual and performing arts, literary art, digital arts, and applied arts. A judging panel of leading Emirati and international artists and cultural experts evaluated more than 4,000 submissions, selecting 1,500 artworks and 38 winning performances to be highlighted at the prestigious museum.

Now in its third edition, National Art Expressions continues to reinforce the connection between education and art, offering students meaningful opportunities to express their heritage, develop their talents, and build confidence. The initiative proudly includes contributions from students of determination, supporting ADEK's ongoing commitment to inclusivity.

The first week of the exhibition concluded with five days of interactive activations, ranging from painting, jewellery making, and coffee and spice art workshops to live podcasts, panel discussions with renowned artists, student-led performances, Emirati music, and other cultural activities. Visitors also attended readings and book signings of Huroof Wa'eeda, featuring distinguished literary works by young authors.

Students were further offered the opportunity to sell their artworks in support of kidney dialysis patients, in collaboration with Ma'an. The initiative also aims to assist exceptional students to participate in ADEK's summer programmes abroad.

Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaib explained, "National Art Expressions is supported by a wide network of Abu Dhabi's leading cultural institutions, all of which contribute resources, expertise and mentorship to help make the programme a success.

"Key supporters include the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Ministry of Education, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, National Archives, the Department of Municipalities and Transport, Ma'an, the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, Ghaf Publishing, and the Creative Media Authority/Abu Dhabi Gaming."

Dr. Al Shoaibi said that the programme "represents a meaningful learning journey, nurturing students' creativity while strengthening their cultural awareness and reinforcing their sense of identity."

He added that schools would receive direct communication about future participation.