Today's Edition
AMEINAH AL ZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Across the globe, World Art Day is a celebration of the transformative power of art: how it connects, inspires, and heals. For Emirati artists, the day is a reminder of their passion, their purpose, and a promise to use their craft for the greater good.
Emirati artist Amna Mohammed Al Maskari sees art as a profound expression of identity and passion.
“I consider my work to be a reflection of who I am. I use it to paint my stories between the pulse of the present and the authenticity of the past,” she told Aletihad.
While creative expression may come in a myriad of colour and in captivating forms, what makes it stand out is the message it carries, Al Maskari said. “Art is a message of love and belonging and it helps us tell the world who we are and preserve our identity.”
She views World Art Day as an opportunity to look back on how and why she started making art — and why she will never stop. “I can breathe, freely express my emotions, and turn every experience into a beautiful narrative through art,” she said.
Emirati artist Huda Saeed believes art is a universal language that bridges cultural differences and brings people together.
“World Art Day highlights the importance of creativity and beauty in our lives,” she said. Art lives beyond paintings and songs, she added. “It's a way to convey feelings and concepts and a link between people's hearts and minds.”
The global occasion is marked on April 15, believed to be the birthday of Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci, one of the most renowned artists and innovators in history. For many, this connection serves as a reminder of how art can shape societies and drive the progress of civilisations.
Building on that spirit, Huda emphasised how closely the UAE aligns with the principles of World Art Day, noting that art plays a vital role in the nation’s cultural and developmental vision.
With continued leadership support, the UAE actively invests in cultural initiatives that nurture creativity, promote tolerance, and inspire innovation, she said.
