UNESCO’s Art Camp at Ajman University Paints a Future of Peace and Tolerance
From 14th to 21st March 2022, the Emirate of Ajman was host to a high-profile art event held in the Arab world for the first time – Art Camp Andorra by UNESCO. Hosted by Ajman University (AU), in collaboration with Ajman Department of Tourism Development, Art Camp Andorra 2022 witnessed more than 25 artists from across the Middle East coming under one roof to create art on the theme of peace and tolerance.
The event concluded on March 21, with a grand exhibition of artworks developed by the artists during the Art Camp. The exhibition which was open to the general public witnessed enthusiastic response as art aficinados, dilettantes and everyone in general attended in great numbers to witness diverse artworks created by talented Middle East artists.
“The last seven days have literally painted and envisioned a beautiful future for people here and for all of humanity,” said Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University. “The event showed us that art transcends language and creates a shared culture beyond words, bringing us together in the universal search for peace and serenity,” he added.
Ms. Salma Al Darmaki, Secretary General of UAE National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, speaking on behalf of Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi, UAE Minister of Culture and Youth, said, “The UAE recognizes the role of art in boosting a knowledge-based, creative economy. Art is a key pillar for socio-economic growth and this Art Camp showcases the thriving art scene of the Emirates. We hope this event is the beginning of many such collaborative initiatives in the future.”
Congratulating AU for its role in hosting Art Camp Andorra, Ms. Salma added, “Thank you, Ajman University for being the gracious hosts of the UNESCO Art Camp. It is a testament to your commitment to promoting the role of culture and art amongst artists, students and community at large, and yet another important milestone in the institution’s journey that delivers on several fronts, demonstrates how art transcends boundaries and becomes a platform for the exchange of ideas.”
Ms. Hedva Ser, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador and Godmother of Art Camp Andorra congratulated all partners in successfully organizing the 7th Edition of Art Camp Andorra in Ajman. Art Camp Andorra supported by UNESCO is a ‘true laboratory of peace and a bridge to eliminate the gaps that divide humanity’ she said.
“Ajman Tourism is delighted at the successful conclusion of one of the most important art events to be held in the city of Ajman. We would like to thank UNESCO for choosing the Emirate of Ajman as the host city for Art Camp Andorra,” said Ms. Hend Al Marzooqi from the Ajman Department of Tourism Development. “Ajman Tourism is committed to developing Ajman as a cultural and tourism hub in the UAE. Art Camp Andorra, a first-of-its-kind art event to be held in the Arab world, is an honor for the city of Ajman and highlights its rich and vibrant ethos as a cultural hub in the UAE,” she added.
Conceptualized by the Andorran National Commission for UNESCO and first held in Ordino Andorra in 2008, Art Camp Andorra aims to promote intercultural dialogue and exchange through the medium of art. Since its creation, Art Camp Andorra has hosted around 150 artists from 80 different countries and has contributed to the creation of approximately 600 original works that have been exhibited at numerous prestigious locations across the world.
Thanking everyone involved, including the partner institutions, for successfully hosting the 7th Art Camp Andorra in Ajman, Dr. Karim added, “I offer my deepest gratitude and appreciation to all partner institutions and friends who made this wonderful event happen. And to the artists who participated in the art camp - you disseminated beautiful messages of hope, compassion and tolerance.”