The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has launched the 2020/21 Mawhibaty Exhibition in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). The exciting artistic showcase of work by young UAE-based talent is on display until Saturday, 26 June at Manarat Al Saadiyat.  

Organised by DCT Abu Dhabi, Mawhibaty is a talent development programme in visual and performing arts for students in Grades 1 – 12. The programme aims to nurture creativity and artistic innovation in young artists, as well as inspire talented students to pursue their creative passions.

The annual Mawhibaty Exhibition acts as a showcase for the exciting work produced by programme participants throughout the year, providing the public with an opportunity to discover promising young artists and raising general awareness of the important role the arts play within the UAE's cultural and social fabric. This year’s event will feature the artistic practices of over 500 students pursuing 17 areas related to the performing and visual arts. Visitors will enjoy musical performances, drawings, paintings, Arabic calligraphy, photography and many multi-disciplinary art genres.

In line with DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission to support and nurture young talent in the emirate, this year’s Mawhibaty Exhibition will also showcase the accomplishments of the winning students from the ‘Create in Arabic’ poetry and creative writing competition organised by Aldar Education, under the theme of the ‘Next 50 Years’. The competition is aimed at enhancing students’ creative talents, developing their writing skills in Arabic, encouraging digital talents, enhancing technological and writing skills, and developing overall creativity and innovation among students. It also aims to instill a love for the Arabic language in the hearts of children through poetry recitation, writing stories or creating vibrant artworks.

Lubna Al Teneiji, Education and Outreach Manager at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Mawhibaty is the first talent development initiative of its kind in the UAE to prepare young artists and creatives for a bright future in this sector. The programme objectives are ambitious and many, as we identify and support emerging talents in visual and performing arts and raise awareness of the importance of the arts as a creative outlet for young minds. This year’s exhibition is another step forward in our mission to nurture and promote the work of gifted students, allowing participants improve and develop their capabilities and skills and introducing their accomplishments to a wider audience.”

Dr. Mona Alameri, Enrichment Programme Manager at ADEK, said: “ADEK is committed to promoting opportunities in the creative arts arena for the emirate’s students, and the Mawhibaty exhibition is the perfect platform for our talented artists to showcase their incredible work. By providing a stage for emerging artists to exhibit their work to the wider community, Mawhibaty is helping to develop creativity and enrich the lives of our students.”

The 2020/21 Mawhibaty Exhibition is open daily, 10am - 8pm, until Saturday, 26 June at Gallery A, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi.