The Mawhibaty talent development programme, a collaboration between DCT Abu Dhabi and ADEK, aims to showcase local talents

Exhibition at Manarat Al Saadiyat features over 500 artworks by more than 200 students

The highly anticipated Mawhibaty Students Showcase, an exhibition of creative works by more than 200 art students participating in this year’s visual arts section of the Mawhibaty talent development programme, has launched at Manarat Al Saadiyat and will be on display until 20 August. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).

The Mawhibaty Students Showcase serves as a catalyst for artistic expression, nurturing the creative talent of students enrolled in public, private, and charter schools across Abu Dhabi. This year’s exhibition features an impressive selection of more than 500 works of art in a diverse array of skills and media – ranging from graphic design and illustration to painting, sculpture, photography, and calligraphy.

Now in its sixth consecutive year, the public exhibition provides students with a significant platform to showcase their creative work. This opportunity inspires and encourages them to persist in their artistic pursuits, fostering their growth and enabling them to elevate their skills to new heights.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "The annual Mawhibaty Students Showcase is a testament to Abu Dhabi's unwavering commitment to nurturing the creative talents of our youth. This important collaboration with ADEK brings the best arts education resources to the emirate’s young artists, allowing them to grow and develop their skills and providing a platform through which they can share their artistic vision with others. Each year I look forward to seeing the children and their creativity flourish, as they develop and gain confidence in their abilities.”

Her Excellency Sara Musallam, Minister of State for Early Education, Chairwoman of the Federal Agency for Early Childhood, and ADEK Chairwoman, said: “This exhibition exemplifies the key role of Abu Dhabi’s education ecosystem in nurturing and fostering limitless creativity. Through art, our talented students become future ambassadors of our traditions, expressing their pride of their national identity, and paying homage to our rich history and culture. The inspiring showcase offers the ideal platform to celebrate a year of dedication and steadfast commitment from gifted students, inspiring teachers, and invaluable support staff.”

Alongside the annual Students Showcase, the Mawhibaty programme has provided students with opportunities to present their artworks in various regional and international exhibitions. These platforms include Comic Con, Expo2020, and the Jewels Festival in New York. This exposure celebrates participants’ talent on a global scale and expands their artistic experiences.

Prior to the opening of the 2023 Students Showcase, the Mawhibaty Students Concert took place from 4 to 6 May at the Cultural Foundation Theatre, showcasing the skills of approximately 200 students, including six students of determination. With an array of performances, encompassing ballet, singing, theatre, music, and traditional performing arts, the event was a testament to the immense talent and dedication of these young artists.

Since its inception in 2017, the Mawhibaty programme has played a pivotal role in after-school activities, dedicated to discovering and nurturing emerging artistic talents across the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The programme is designed to equip students with the essential tools to ignite their creativity, elevate their artistic innovation, and inspire them to pursue their creative passions. In addition, Mawhibaty fosters a deeper understanding of and sense of pride in national and cultural identity, by showcasing the UAE’s rich artistic traditions through the power of art and performance.

Throughout the year-round programme, students immerse themselves in training sessions led by skilled art professionals at DCT Abu Dhabi’s cultural centres, exploring their creative potential and refining their artistic abilities. Vanues include Marsam Al Hor and the Children’s Art Centre at the Cultural Foundation, the Art Studio at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Bait Al Oud, Berklee Abu Dhabi, and Al Qattara Arts Centre.

The Mawhibaty Students Showcase is open daily at Manarat Al Saadiyat from 10am to 8pm.

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