Together, we stand

Arts are at a standstill for our well-being. The global pandemic has had an impact on all of us, but at the same time, it has brought us together, making us realise that we all have a role to play in limiting the spread of the virus. While the community gears up to beat this challenge and various art-centric venues undergo deep cleaning, recent community events - which took place before authorities took the measure to cancel or postpone upcoming exhibitions, stage shows, fairs etc for our safety - seemed to offer a much-needed theme for the current times: togetherness.
At the Women in Art 2020 exhibition - that opened on March 4 at The Cube, Central Park Towers, DIFC - two things caught my attention. First, the big glass bowl loaded with sanitisers at the entrance! Second, the strong teacher-student relationships on display. Renowned artists Atul M Panase dropped by to support his student, Sayli Panse, whose watercolour painting was on the walls.
An equally warm camaraderie was visible at the Live Limitless exhibition, which opened on March 7 at The Canvas Hotel, Bur Dubai. Curated by sisters Farah and Shiba Khan of Funun Arts, it brought together 45 artists from 10 nationalities. Suhail Mohammad Al Zarooni, Chairman of Al Zarooni Foundation & Al Zarooni Group of Companies, and the chief guest for the event, highlighted how there are movements to support women's rights. "I simply hold women in high regard. How can one not?" He encouraged the community to work hard but stay safe during these times. Meanwhile, guest of honour Sultana Kazim, an expressionist artist and fashion designer spoke on how art has the power to heal, especially in the current times.
As you too practise social distancing, use the time to stay optimistic, master a new skill, and spread the message - that together, we can and will, fight this.
purva@khaleejtimes.com