Art of determination, act of inclusion: Funun Arts Group hosts signal event

Gulf Today

29-05-2025

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.