UOS concludes the UNESCO International Art Forum

During the closing ceremony, Professor Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, inaugurated an art exhibition featuring the artworks of participating artists and students. The exhibition showcased 44 paintings created over the course of the forum, alongside two sculptural pieces crafted by the students. The Chancellor was accompanied by Ms. 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 the College of Fine Arts and Design. 

In her address, Prof. Amina Almarzouqi expressed gratitude to the participating artists and students for their remarkable contributions, which were vividly reflected in the artworks displayed. She also extended her appreciation to UNESCO for selecting the University of Sharjah as the host institution for this prestigious international forum. Furthermore, she commended the workshops and panel discussions conducted throughout the event and thanked Jotun Paints for their sponsorship. 

Prof.  Almarzouqi emphasized that the University of Sharjah is committed to fostering an educational environment that nurtures creativity and innovation. This commitment is reflected in the organization of numerous extracurricular activities aimed at enriching students' experiences, enhancing their diverse skill sets, and ultimately improving their academic performance. She also highlighted the importance of cultural and artistic exchanges with participants from around the world, noting that such global initiatives offer an invaluable opportunity for UNESCO, as an international organization, to gain deeper insight into the University’s contributions. Furthermore, she announced that the artworks produced during the forum will be divided into two collections: 22 pieces will be exhibited at the University of Sharjah, while the remaining 22 will be displayed at various universities worldwide under UNESCO’s auspices.

Ms. Hedva Ser expressed her delight at attending the forum's closing ceremony and commended the efforts of the University’s organizers in ensuring the event’s success. She praised the exhibited artworks as a testament to the power of art in transcending geographical and cultural boundaries, fostering dialogue, and building bridges between nations. She remarked that initiatives of this nature play a vital role in promoting intercultural exchange and dialogue, which are essential for cultivating a more tolerant and creative world. “At UNESCO, we firmly believe that art is a universal language that unites humanity. This forum is a shining example of that belief. We hope that such events will continue to inspire future generations and uphold the values of peace and diversity through artistic expression,” she stated.

Yehia Maher, Marketing Director at Jotun Paints, highlighted that the University of Sharjah’s initiative in hosting this global event exemplifies the UAE’s ability—both in the public and private sectors—to bring together diverse cultures through a shared humanistic vision. He reaffirmed Jotun’s commitment to supporting cultural and artistic initiatives that align with the company's philosophy and moral principles and expressed his appreciation to the University for providing the opportunity to participate in such a prestigious event. 

The ceremony concluded with the recognition of participating artists and students, as well as the honoring of sponsors and partners, including the National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science; the Sharjah Museums Authority; the Ministry of Culture; Jotun Paints, the forum’s official sponsor; the Emirates Fine Arts Society; and Falaj Center.