University Of Sharjah Successfully Concludes UNESCO International Art Forum With Global Artists

The University of Sharjah (UoS) recently wrapped up the UNESCO International Art Forum, themed "Art Beyond Borders." This event, held over eleven days at the Deanship of Student Affairs and the College of Fine Arts and Design (CFAD), featured 22 renowned artists from various countries and 20 university students. Sponsored by Jotun Paints, it served as a platform for artistic exchange and cross-cultural dialogue.

During the closing ceremony, Professor Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of UoS, opened an art exhibition displaying works created during the forum. The exhibition included 44 paintings and two sculptures made by students. He was joined by Hedva Ser, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Cultural Diversity; Prof. Amina Almarzouqi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs; Prof. Eid Kanaan, Dean of Student Affairs; and Prof. Nadia Alhasani, Dean of CFAD.

Prof. Amina Almarzouqi expressed gratitude to the artists and students for their significant contributions, which were evident in the displayed artworks. She also thanked UNESCO for choosing UoS as the host for this esteemed international forum. Additionally, she praised the workshops and panel discussions held during the event.

She emphasised the importance of cultural exchanges with global participants, noting that such initiatives provide UNESCO with valuable insights into UoS's contributions. She announced that artworks from the forum will be split into two collections: 22 pieces will remain at UoS, while others will be exhibited at universities worldwide under UNESCO's guidance.

Hedva Ser expressed her pleasure in attending the closing ceremony and applauded UoS's organisers for ensuring the event's success. She praised the artworks as evidence of art's ability to transcend geographical and cultural barriers, fostering dialogue and building bridges between nations.

Yehia Maher, Marketing Director at Jotun Paints, highlighted that UoS's initiative in hosting this global event showcases the UAE’s capability—both in public and private sectors—to unite diverse cultures through a shared humanistic vision. He expressed appreciation to UoS for allowing participation in such a prestigious event.

The forum not only celebrated artistic talent but also underscored art's role in promoting understanding across cultures. By bringing together artists from different backgrounds, it highlighted how art can serve as a universal language that connects people beyond borders.

With inputs from WAM