University artists recognised for 140m-long Zayed mural

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The Zayed University students in front of the mural dedicated to the UAE’s founding father.
The Zayed University students in front of the mural dedicated to the UAE's founding father.

Dubai - The mural was created in collaboration with the Zayed University in Dubai.

By Saman Haziq

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Published: Sun 2 Dec 2018, 7:00 PM

Last updated: Mon 3 Dec 2018, 7:34 AM

A group of 22 Emirati students from the Zayed University's College of Arts and Creative Enterprises were honoured by the Cultural Office of Sheikha Manal Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum for their exceptional efforts and participation in creating a 140-metre mural to mark the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's 100th birth anniversary.
This is the second edition of 'Al Ydar' ('The Mural' in English) that was launched by Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, president of the Dubai Women Establishment (DWE) and the UAE Gender Balance Council, and wife of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, to mark the 100th year of birth of the UAE's founding father and celebrate the Year of Zayed.
The mural was created in collaboration with the Zayed University in Dubai with the support of DWE and will be displayed for a year on the outer wall of Dubai Ladies Club in Jumeirah. It includes a variety of artworks created by 22 female students over a period of a month and conveys four main themes inspired by the founding father's values and interests - wisdom, respect, sustainability and human development.
The works of art in the six sections portray various elements of the country's progress since its establishment, including the UAE's advanced infrastructure, buildings and unique landmarks.
Sheikha Manal said the achievements of Sheikh Zayed continue to inspire innovators to create outstanding works of art. "This work is a result of Sheikh Zayed's efforts to educate Emiratis and support Emirati women by providing them with the tools and skills they need to excel and succeed across all fields," she said.
Al Maha Al Bastaki, director of the Cultural Office of Sheikha Manal, presented certificates of appreciation to the students in recognition of their hard work that has won the admiration of the public, artists and art connoisseurs alike.
The project was part of the overall college educational programme of the participating students and will be counted as a summer course and factored into their credit hours for graduation requirements.
WHAT THE MURAL'S SIX SECTIONS DEPICT
The first of six sections focuses on the desert, from which the late Sheikh Zayed created a new beginning for the UAE. The second depicts the palm fronds and how the founding father used them as the foundation of his agricultural and environmental vision. The third section then presents a falconry expedition, highlighting the falcon's significance in Emirati culture as a symbol of national identity, pride and courage. The fourth portrays the trees and leaves of Al Ghaf, an integral part of the UAE's history and heritage, while the fifth explores the UAE's renaissance and growth. The sixth and final section of Al Ydar highlights the vast expanse of the sea, representing the endless future possibilities for the nation.
saman@khaleejtimes.com
 


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