Unspoken Words: Art Speaks Beyond Words – A Transformative International Exhibition by Funun Arts Group & Novotel Sharjah Expo Center

Sharjah, UAE – 16 May 2025 – In an evocative tribute to the human spirit and the universal language of art, Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Sharjah Expo Center, proudly presented an extraordinary international art exhibition titled “Unspoken Words: Art Speaks Beyond Words.” This moving and immersive event brought together a powerful union of artistic excellence and heartfelt inclusion, featuring 20 professional artists from diverse cultural backgrounds and 20 inspiring People of Determination from the Build Your Tribe Foundation.

Held in the culturally vibrant emirate of Sharjah, a beacon of education and the arts, this exhibition was more than an art display—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 profound depth of the human soul.

The theme “Unspoken Words” resonated with audiences from all walks of life. It highlighted emotions and expressions that are deeply felt yet often difficult to articulate—inner joy, hidden resilience, silent grief, quiet hope, and untold dreams. Through brushstrokes, textures, color, and form, each participating artist and student of determination transformed their inner narratives into vivid works of art, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the soul.

This initiative was thoughtfully structured into three immersive segments, each offering a unique window into the world of expressive possibility.

The Collaborative Painting Session

One of the most touching and symbolic highlights 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 within the heart of the community.

This shared artistic journey became a living canvas of empathy and unity—each brushstroke deepening bonds, fostering understanding, and erasing the lines that divide us. It was in this moment that creativity became a shared heartbeat, and the simple act of painting turned into a powerful tool for connection.

The Art Exhibition

The exhibition featured a rich collection of works created both independently and collaboratively. From abstract compositions to symbolic storytelling, each piece carried with it the spirit of its creator. The curated selection allowed the audience to embark on an emotional journey through the lenses of hope, transformation, identity, healing, and expression.

The works not only showcased the technical brilliance of the artists but also emphasized the importance of inclusive platforms in the creative world. By providing an equal space for People of Determination, the exhibition redefined the boundaries of traditional art events, embracing all forms of expression.

The Felicitation Ceremony

The event culminated in a heartwarming Felicitation Ceremony—a tribute to the dedication, talent, and bravery of all the participants. Every artist, student, and partner were honored for their contributions to this vibrant cultural moment. The ceremony symbolized the power of recognition in building confidence, especially among emerging talents and individuals with determination.

The grand opening ceremony was graced by several eminent personalities and champions of inclusivity and culture, including:

H.E. Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah – Veteran Emirati Diplomat & Designer of the UAE Flag

H.E. Halima Al Sayegh – Honorary Ambassador of World Culture & 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

Peter Gressmann – Founder of Artforum UAE

Muhammad Yusuf – Esteemed Journalist, Gulf Today

Dr. Muhammad Yusuf – Influencer & Cultural Advocate

Mehreen Sultana – Founder, Shiraz Kabab Khaas Restaurant

These distinguished guests lent their voices to amplify the exhibition's core message: that art is a universal right, not a privilege, and inclusion is the heartbeat of any truly progressive society.

Shiba Khan, Founder and Director of Funun Arts Group, shared her deep commitment to the cause:

“‘Unspoken Words’ is a soulful initiative where art becomes the language of inclusion and empathy. It reminds us that creativity has no boundaries—it is the purest expression of who we are.”

Farah Khan, Co-founder, added:

“We’ve always believed that art has the power to heal, connect, and uplift. This event reflects that belief, especially through the radiant smiles and pride we witnessed from our People of Determination participants.”

Mr. Joseph, F&B Manager, Novotel Sharjah Expo Center, commented:

“Novotel is proud to serve as a platform for this enriching experience. We are committed to community-based cultural initiatives, and this collaboration reflects our core values of inclusion and creativity.”

Ms. Nisha Tandon, Founder of Build Your Tribe Foundation, noted: “Partnering with Funun Arts for this initiative 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 proudly 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.

Representing the heart and courage of inclusive art, the participating People of Determination 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.

This impactful event was made possible through the generous support of Shiraz Kabab Khaas Restaurant and Stories Lounge & Café, whose community-first philosophy mirrors the spirit of the exhibition. Their belief in creativity as a catalyst for connection has helped bring this vision to life.

The whole event was a Movement, Not Just a Moment. “Unspoken Words: Art Speaks Beyond Words” is more than a title—it is a movement. A movement that nurtures dialogue without voice, celebrates inclusion without boundaries, and tells stories that often remain untold.

Through this initiative, Funun Arts Group, Novotel Sharjah Expo Center, and the Build Your Tribe Foundation have created a blueprint for inclusive art advocacy. It is a testament to what is possible when creativity meets compassion—where every brushstroke becomes an act of empowerment.

About the Organizers:

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 art exhibitions, creative dialogues, and youth art forums, Funun Arts is known for promoting diversity and elevating community voices through visual art.

Novotel Sharjah Expo Center, part of the Accor group, is committed to cultural collaboration, local engagement, and creating inclusive spaces for transformative events.

Source and photo: Funun Arts Group