Mission ocean: Funun Arts Group event focuses on coral restoration
'It is a mission, a movement, and a message to the world, echoing the urgent need to protect and restore our fragile marine ecosystems.' Bringing together 15 established artists and 15 young visionaries, it is a platform where art becomes activism, bridges generations and inspires collective action through creativity.
It showcases artworks that follow the language of the ocean — its rhythms, resilience and its cry for help. Each piece is a vivid reminder of the beauty that lies beneath the waves and the responsibility to preserve it.
From vibrant corals to the haunting silhouettes of marine life, the art on display encourages reflection, urging the viewer to rethink their relationship with Nature. The inauguration ceremony was graced by dignitaries and change makers, including Sultana Farouq Kazim, Global Ambassador for UNESCO International Action AR and Fashion Designer; Dr. Mohammad Ali, CEO of Breathe Creativity; Kusum Dutta, philanthropist and artist; Anjini Prakash Laitu, renowned pioneer artist and Peter Ferrington, artist and environmentalist.
Shiba Khan's artwork.
The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Darryl Owen, CEO of Freestyle Divers and Founder of Project REEFrame, who emphasised the importance of coral reef restoration and the role of art in inspiring real-life change. Another highlight of the event was the collaborative painting activity involving students from Delhi Private School, Sharjah, Ryan International School, Sharjah, and North American International School, Dubai. Artists and students came together to create two large-scale puzzle paintings that, when joined together, formed masterpiece works — symbols of unity, hope and harmony, between humanity and the seas.
The artworks being the result of intergenerational collaboration, proved that when creativity meets purpose, generational boundaries and talent gradations dissolve, and impactful narratives are born. Young ambassadors of the event, Mohammad Azaan Mehtab Khan and Wali Mehtab Khan (Grade 3 and 1, Ryan International School) and Maryam Sarfraz Khan (Grade 2, Delhi Private School), took the stage with a skit titled Rebalancing the Ocean. Their message was: it is not too late to act. Shiba Khan noted that 'this is more than a reminder — it's a call to action. Each brushstroke is a visual pledge, a commitment to our planet's well-being. Art has the extraordinary ability to transcend barriers and speak directly to the heart. When we create with intention, we do not just produce beauty — we spark awareness and dialogue, and inspire transformation.
Kosha Tarsaria's composition.
'Rebalancing the Ocean is also not just about showcasing talent; it is about using that talent as a force for rousing environmental awareness and change. Through creativity, we aim to awaken responsibility and nurture a sense of collective stewardship for our oceans and the future of our planet.' Farah Khan added: 'Our events are curated not just to be remembered, but to be deeply reflected upon — long after the last artwork is viewed. We believe that art has the power to not only evoke emotion, but also instill purpose. By engaging students to work alongside established artists, we are creating a powerful intergenerational dialogue — where experience meets talent, and creativity becomes a shared language of change.
'The collaboration is our way of planting the seeds of awareness and responsibility early, nurturing young minds to become conscious, compassionate leaders. After all, they are not just the artists of tomorrow — they are also the custodians of the planet's future.' Ghaith Dalati, General Manager of Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, said that 'this event beautifully aligns with the mission of NOVO25, which is rooted in sustainability, community engagement, and innovation. At Novotel, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that go beyond hospitality — experiences that contribute to the greater good.
Artists and supporters at the event.
'Rebalancing the Ocean reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief that art can be a powerful medium for awareness and change. Hosting this event is not just a celebration of creativity, but a reflection of our shared responsibility to protect our planet and foster a conscious, connected community.' Participating artists include Catherine Miras, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Erum Durrani, Fatima Ahmmed, Kosha Tarsaria, Kusum Dutta, Leena Kewlani, Mallak Alwesh, Manasi Abhijit Deodhar, Maria Aamer Khan, Nataliia Venerova, Pari Sagar, Rayan Omer Hamed, Stuti Parikh, and Shiba Khan.
Young artists making the event more special are Aidan Shareef, Dharswana Durai, Kanishka Manikandan, Kavya Vishal, Maryam Sarfraz Khan, Naga Krithi Godem (Delhi Private School, Sharjah); Ali Yaseen, Areej Wahid, Romina Ramin Zeerati, Talia Isam (North American International School, Dubai); and Mohammed Azaan Mehtab Khan, Mohammed Wali Mehtab Khan (Ryan International School, Sharjah). Funun Arts Group is a leading UAE-based platform that champions art as a universal language of connection, empowerment, and education. With over 10 years of experience curating art exhibitions, instigating creative dialogues and hosting youth art forums, the Group is known for promoting diversity and elevating community voices through visual art. Novotel Suites Mall Avenue Dubai is a contemporary hotel situated in Al Barsha district, opposite the Mall of the Emirates, with Ski Dubai nearby. Its location offers guests easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The hotel is also within walking distance of Mall of the Emirates and Sharaf DG metro stations, facilitating comfortable exploration of Dubai's attractions.
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Gulf Today
18-06-2025
- Gulf Today
Mission ocean: Funun Arts Group event focuses on coral restoration
In a tribute to World Oceans Day 2025 (June 8), Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, Dubai, has unveiled an initiative titled Rebalancing the Ocean: Coral Restoration Through Art (May 30 – June 30). 'The ongoing event is more than an exhibition,' say Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, founders, Funun Arts Group. 'It is a mission, a movement, and a message to the world, echoing the urgent need to protect and restore our fragile marine ecosystems.' Bringing together 15 established artists and 15 young visionaries, it is a platform where art becomes activism, bridges generations and inspires collective action through creativity. It showcases artworks that follow the language of the ocean — its rhythms, resilience and its cry for help. Each piece is a vivid reminder of the beauty that lies beneath the waves and the responsibility to preserve it. From vibrant corals to the haunting silhouettes of marine life, the art on display encourages reflection, urging the viewer to rethink their relationship with Nature. The inauguration ceremony was graced by dignitaries and change makers, including Sultana Farouq Kazim, Global Ambassador for UNESCO International Action AR and Fashion Designer; Dr. Mohammad Ali, CEO of Breathe Creativity; Kusum Dutta, philanthropist and artist; Anjini Prakash Laitu, renowned pioneer artist and Peter Ferrington, artist and environmentalist. Shiba Khan's artwork. The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Darryl Owen, CEO of Freestyle Divers and Founder of Project REEFrame, who emphasised the importance of coral reef restoration and the role of art in inspiring real-life change. Another highlight of the event was the collaborative painting activity involving students from Delhi Private School, Sharjah, Ryan International School, Sharjah, and North American International School, Dubai. Artists and students came together to create two large-scale puzzle paintings that, when joined together, formed masterpiece works — symbols of unity, hope and harmony, between humanity and the seas. The artworks being the result of intergenerational collaboration, proved that when creativity meets purpose, generational boundaries and talent gradations dissolve, and impactful narratives are born. Young ambassadors of the event, Mohammad Azaan Mehtab Khan and Wali Mehtab Khan (Grade 3 and 1, Ryan International School) and Maryam Sarfraz Khan (Grade 2, Delhi Private School), took the stage with a skit titled Rebalancing the Ocean. Their message was: it is not too late to act. Shiba Khan noted that 'this is more than a reminder — it's a call to action. Each brushstroke is a visual pledge, a commitment to our planet's well-being. Art has the extraordinary ability to transcend barriers and speak directly to the heart. When we create with intention, we do not just produce beauty — we spark awareness and dialogue, and inspire transformation. Kosha Tarsaria's composition. 'Rebalancing the Ocean is also not just about showcasing talent; it is about using that talent as a force for rousing environmental awareness and change. Through creativity, we aim to awaken responsibility and nurture a sense of collective stewardship for our oceans and the future of our planet.' Farah Khan added: 'Our events are curated not just to be remembered, but to be deeply reflected upon — long after the last artwork is viewed. We believe that art has the power to not only evoke emotion, but also instill purpose. By engaging students to work alongside established artists, we are creating a powerful intergenerational dialogue — where experience meets talent, and creativity becomes a shared language of change. 'The collaboration is our way of planting the seeds of awareness and responsibility early, nurturing young minds to become conscious, compassionate leaders. After all, they are not just the artists of tomorrow — they are also the custodians of the planet's future.' Ghaith Dalati, General Manager of Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, said that 'this event beautifully aligns with the mission of NOVO25, which is rooted in sustainability, community engagement, and innovation. At Novotel, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that go beyond hospitality — experiences that contribute to the greater good. Artists and supporters at the event. 'Rebalancing the Ocean reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief that art can be a powerful medium for awareness and change. Hosting this event is not just a celebration of creativity, but a reflection of our shared responsibility to protect our planet and foster a conscious, connected community.' Participating artists include Catherine Miras, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Erum Durrani, Fatima Ahmmed, Kosha Tarsaria, Kusum Dutta, Leena Kewlani, Mallak Alwesh, Manasi Abhijit Deodhar, Maria Aamer Khan, Nataliia Venerova, Pari Sagar, Rayan Omer Hamed, Stuti Parikh, and Shiba Khan. Young artists making the event more special are Aidan Shareef, Dharswana Durai, Kanishka Manikandan, Kavya Vishal, Maryam Sarfraz Khan, Naga Krithi Godem (Delhi Private School, Sharjah); Ali Yaseen, Areej Wahid, Romina Ramin Zeerati, Talia Isam (North American International School, Dubai); and Mohammed Azaan Mehtab Khan, Mohammed Wali Mehtab Khan (Ryan International School, Sharjah). Funun Arts Group is a leading UAE-based platform that champions art as a universal language of connection, empowerment, and education. With over 10 years of experience curating art exhibitions, instigating creative dialogues and hosting youth art forums, the Group is known for promoting diversity and elevating community voices through visual art. Novotel Suites Mall Avenue Dubai is a contemporary hotel situated in Al Barsha district, opposite the Mall of the Emirates, with Ski Dubai nearby. Its location offers guests easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The hotel is also within walking distance of Mall of the Emirates and Sharaf DG metro stations, facilitating comfortable exploration of Dubai's attractions.
Gulf Today
29-05-2025
- Gulf Today
Art of determination, act of inclusion: Funun Arts Group hosts signal event
In a tribute to the human spirit and the universal language of art, Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, presented an international art exhibition titled 'Unspoken Words: Art Speaks Beyond Words'. The one-day event (May 16) united artistic excellence and inclusivity, featuring 20 professional artists from diverse backgrounds and 20 inspiring People of Determination, from the Build Your Tribe Foundation. Held in the culturally vibrant – and thoughtfully observant - emirate of Sharjah, a beacon of education and the arts, the exhibition was more than an art display or an immersive cultural event: it was a celebration of unspoken emotions, shared dreams, and invisible strength. The event embodied the belief that art can communicate what words often cannot — the never-say-die spirit and warm companionship of the human soul. Artworks depicting local scenes. The show highlighted emotions and expressions that are deeply felt yet are often difficult to articulate — inner joy, hidden resilience, silent grief, quiet hope, and untold dreams. Through brushstrokes, textures, colour and form, each participating artist and student of determination transformed their inner narratives into vivid works of art, offering viewers a glimpse into the strivings of the soul and the comradeship it offers. A highlight of the event was the Live Collaborative Painting Session. Here, professional artists and People of Determination worked side by side, creating art not just on canvas, but inside the heart of the community. The shared artistic journey was a living canvas of empathy and unity — it deepened bonds, fostered understanding, and erased the lines that divide people at different stages of growth and development. Creativity became a shared heartbeat, and the act of painting, became an enabling instrument of connection. The art exhibition featured a rich collection of works, from abstract compositions to storytelling. They not only showcased the technical brilliance of the artists but by providing an equal space for People of Determination, redefined the boundaries of a traditional art event, since it embraced all forms of expression. The occasion culminated in a felicitation ceremony — a homage to the dedication, talent and courage of the participants. Each artist, student and partner was honoured for their contribution to the event. The ceremony hailed the power of recognition in building confidence, especially among emerging talents and individuals of determination. Earlier, the opening ceremony was graced by several eminent personalities and champions of inclusivity and culture, including Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, veteran Emirati diplomat and designer of the UAE flag; Halima Al Sayegh, Honorary Ambassador of World Culture and Member of the Emirates Businesswomen Council; Abdujabar Ahmed Wiss, Dean of Student Affairs, Al Qasimia University; Ahmed Al Awadhi, renowned Emirati artist and businessman; Anjini Prakash Laitu, pioneer artist and mentor; Dr. Muhammad Yusuf, influencer and cultural advocate and Mehreen Sultana, Founder, Shiraz Kabab Khaas Restaurant. Restless sea and serene mosque. The distinguished guests amplified the exhibition's core message that art was a universal right and not a privilege, and inclusion was the heartbeat of a progressive society. Shiba Khan, Founder and Director of Funun Arts Group, said that 'Unspoken Words is a soulful initiative where art is the language of inclusion and empathy. Creativity has no boundaries — it simply is the purest expression of who we are.' Farah Khan, Co-founder, said that 'we believe that art has the power to heal, connect, and uplift. This event reflects that belief, especially seen in the radiant smiles and pride we witness from our People of Determination participants.' Joseph, F&B Manager, Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, said that 'we are committed to community-based cultural initiatives, and this collaboration reflects our core values of inclusion and creativity.' Nisha Tandon, Founder of Build Your Tribe Foundation, noted: 'Partnering with Funun Arts has been a beautiful journey. Providing People of Determination a platform to share their inner world through art not only empowers them, but inspires all of us.' The exhibition featured artworks by Ahmed Al Awadhi, Amira Azmy, Anjini Prakash Laitu, Avigyan Bhattacharya, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Duaa Mouaffaq, Faezeh Mohammad, Farah Khan, Mallak Alwesh, Monia Sahraoui, Mozhgan Afrisham, Mussarat Yasmin, Pari Sagar, Ranjisha Raghavan, Roya Vahidi, Sabrin Asker Ali, Sadia Fahad, Saida Banu, Shiba Khan, and Tumpa Banerjee. Shiba Khan (left) and Farah Khan at the event. Representing the hallmark of inclusive art, People of Determination artists included Aakriti Misri, Aaliyah Khan, Aarabdh Sendwal, Achint Babbar, Adnaan Master, Anoushka Tandon, Asmaa Syed Afaq, Ethan Blake Varin, G. B. Deepakram, G. B. Yeswanth Mehar Kumawat, Rohaan Augustine, Safa Ayisha Ghori, Savith De Silva, Sujith Shenoy, Taarini Viswanadha, Tasneem Khozema, Umer Faisal, and Yuvika Minoch. The event was supported by Shiraz Kabab Khaas Restaurant and Stories Lounge & Café. 'It is a movement, not just a moment,' said Shiba Khan and Farah Khan. 'Unspoken Words is more than a title — it is a movement that points the way to inclusivity, guides similarly minded art lovers, creates a blueprint for inclusive art advocacy, nurtures dialogue without voice, celebrates inclusion without boundaries, and tells stories that often remain untold. It is a testament to what is possible when creativity meets compassion, where every brushstroke becomes an act of empowerment.' Funun Arts Group is a leading UAE-based platform that champions art as a universal language of connection, empowerment, and education. With over 10 years of curating exhibitions, creative dialogue and youth art forums, the Group promotes diversity and works to elevate community voices through visual art. Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre, part of Accor group, is committed to cultural collaboration, local engagement and creating inclusive spaces for transformative events.
Gulf Today
24-04-2025
- Gulf Today
Nine to ten: Funun Arts Group nears a milestone at World Art Dubai fair
When it took part in World Art Dubai (Apr. 17 – 20), Funun Arts Group, the UAE-based art community, was celebrating nine consecutive years of participation in the fair. 'Funun Arts Group continues to grow, inspire and redefine what it means to be an artistic movement rooted in community, culture and creative excellence,' say Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, co-founders of the Group. From a modest beginning in 2016 with a single 12-square-metre stand and representing only a few artists, Funun Arts Group is now one of the largest and most diverse participating art organisations in World Art Dubai. In its career of nearly a decade, it has showcased over 500 artists from 60 nationalities in the fair. Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, also known as the Khan Sisters in the art fraternity, say that 'what began as a passion project to unite artists and give them a voice, has blossomed into a global creative movement.' 'In our very first year,' says Shiba Khan, who is also an artist, 'we didn't know what to look forward to. We only had a vision – to bring people together through art and create a platform where voices, especially of women, youth and emerging artists, could be seen and heard.' A composition by Dr. Hafsa. Nine years later, the vision has realised itself into one of the UAE's most active and impactful art bodies, hailed not only for its consistent presence in all major art events, but also for the innovative experiences and meaningful conversations it brings to them, particularly to World Art Dubai, every year. This year's presentation by the Group was a visual journey and emotional treat across continents and cultures. Funun's stands offered visitors a rich palette of styles and techniques, from traditional techniques to experimental projects. Included was Abstract Expressionism and Realism (side by side), reflecting both the inner psyche and the outer world; charcoal sketches showing depth and maturity; mixed media and fluid art, spontaneous with movement; paper quilling and glass art done with detail and precision and displays such as paintings on copper trays, leatherwork on canvas, and art-infused carpets, bridging fine art and artisanal craft. Every artwork, speaking softly or boldly, told a story – of its origins, identity, resilience, enthusiasm, and imagination. Artists from India, Pakistan, Syria, Iran, Lebanon, the UK, Philippines, Italy, and many more countries, had travelled to Dubai to be a part of the showcase. Artwork by Anuradha Bhalla. 'We were proud to represent a truly global family of artists,' says Farah Khan. 'Each artist brought not just their art, but their soul, their heritage, and a message that connects with someone out there.' Funun Arts Group has a commitment to innovation in presentation. One of the most talked about performances was 'Rhythmic Painting' in 2022, a fusion of movement and brushwork. Shiba Khan painted live to the rhythms of a classical Indian dancer; it was a moving canvas that came to life with each gesture and brushstroke. It was also a powerful reminder of how visual and performing arts can merge into a single artistic event, erasing boundaries between different forms of art. Other creative highlights offered by the Group have included 'Circle of Life', a collaborative installation symbolising unity, environmental consciousness and the infinite cycle of creativity; and 'Sustainable Fashion Show', where artists turned recycled materials into fashion statements, advocating for eco-consciousness through wearable art. Parvin's powerful painting of a horse. These features, besides giving food for thought and entertaining the audience, also served a greater purpose — connecting art to sustainability, inclusivity and innovation, which are themes that resonate deeply in today's world. This year's World Art Dubai also saw the inclusion of young artists from the Annual Student Art Show (ASAS), the flagship educational initiative of Funun Arts Group. Eighteen student winners, selected from hundreds of submissions, were given the opportunity to exhibit their works at World Art Dubai, alongside the creations of seasoned artists. Student artworks explored the theme 'Art and Innovation', blending traditional ideas with futuristic concepts. From AI-inspired pieces to climate-change reflections, the expressions were instinctive, powerful, and quite insightful. 'This was more than a reward: it was a life-changing moment,' says Shiba Khan. 'Seeing their eyes light up as they explained their works to a visitor or posed with their art — it reminded us why we do what we do. Art empowers, art uplifts.' Pejiman's horse eyes the horizon. The Funun Arts Group spaces saw dignitaries and students, seasoned collectors and first-time buyers, finding something to admire, connect with, or be inspired by. 'Each day of the fair was alive with colour, conversation, and creative synergy,' says Farah Khan. She noted that 'the UAE has become a global art and culture hub. And platforms like World Art Dubai are not just exhibitions — they are incubators of talent, dialogue, and dreams.' Farah Khan (left) and Shiba Khan. With nine successful years behind them, the Khan Sisters and their ever-growing community of artists, are looking ahead. Plans for international exhibitions, youth mentorships, art-tech collaborations and cross-cultural residencies, are already underway. 'We don't just want to exhibit — we want to educate, innovate, and elevate,' says Shiba Khan. 'Funun Arts Group stands for creativity with purpose - and we're only just getting started.' World Art Dubai is the largest art fair in the GCC region, attracting thousands of visitors, VIP guests, collectors and artists from all over the globe. With over 10,000 artworks on display, its 2025 version was a major commemoration of the world's creative spirit.
