Emotions of children through art

Shaikh Mansoor sees the artworks at the exhibition.

Shaikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum recently inaugurated an exhibition showcasing the artworks of orphans involved in the Selah Art Programme, designed to help orphaned children convey their emotions and learn through art.
The art programme was founded and organised by The Cultural Office of Shaikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in cooperation with Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation to support the UAE Initiative for Connection with Orphans and Minors launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The exhibition showcased 84 works of art created by the children in Dubai Mall's Fashion Avenue.
"I was deeply moved by the achievements of the children who took part in the art programme and their artworks displayed at the exhibition. The programme is an exceptional initiative that helps many vulnerable and disadvantaged children, enabling them to be recognised as valuable children in our society," said Shaikh Mansoor.
The programme also featured unique workshops designed to help children connect with themselves, each other and the wider community, which were led by Emirati volunteer artists.
During the first workshop, the children created life-size portraits, reflecting on their identity as a form of introducing themselves to one another within the group.
The second workshop involved the children reflecting on what they want the wider community to know about them, and a third session focused on the children's external and internal representation of how they portray themselves to others, and how they feel internally.
The children also explored which animal represents themselves the most, allowing them to reflect on their personality traits and character. Emirati volunteer artists worked closely with the children helping them to grow and heal through self-expression and interaction.
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