A Cultural Tribute and Urgent Message

The No-Home Jersey incorporates symbols that reflect the nation’s heritage, including the great white shark, the national Plumeria flower, and the outrigger canoe. These cultural elements celebrate the Marshall Islands while conveying a pressing environmental issue. The number “1.5” on the front of the jersey references the Paris Agreement’s critical temperature threshold, emphasizing the risk of irreversible damage if global temperatures rise beyond this point.

Though the Marshall Islands has a federation, players, and a football field, it remains the only UN-recognized nation without an official football team. By introducing the jersey, the Federation aims to speed up the process of gaining recognition from the Oceania Football Confederation. It also seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of climate change.

Visual Metaphor for Rising Seas

Promotional materials for the jersey show it gradually disappearing through cut-outs, symbolizing the potential loss of the Marshall Islands due to rising sea levels. This striking visual is a reminder that, without global action on emissions, the island nation could face permanent flooding within 50 years.

Matt Webb, the Federation’s commercial director, explained, “If global warming continues, our nation may be faced with irreversible damage from rising sea waters.”

The No-Home Jersey combines a celebration of Marshallese culture with a stark call for climate action. The slogan “we deserve to thrive,” from Marshallese poet Kathy Jetnil-Kijiner, reinforces the message of resilience and the need to protect the nation’s future.

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Curated by the National Museum of Qatar, the exhibition titled “Knock, Rain, Knock” serves as the sole Arab representation at the biennale. The exhibition delves into the cultural, spiritual, and environmental significance of rain in Qatar, anchored in the traditional prayer for rain, Salat al istisqaa’. It features newly commissioned works by seven Qatari and Qatar-based artists: Abdulrahman Al Muftah, Farah Al Sidiky, Fatima Abbas, Guillaume Rouseré, Nada El Kharashi, Hind Al Saad, and Sara Al Naimi.

Through this exhibition, Qatar Museums aims to engage global audiences with contemporary issues like climate change and desertification, while highlighting the profound symbolism of water in Arab and Islamic traditions. The Pavilion aligns with Qatar’s Vision 2030 for Environmental Development, showcasing how the nation’s rich heritage informs modern artistic conversations on sustainability.

The Qatar Pavilion will be located at Art Hall in Gwangju Bank HQ and will be open for the entire duration of the biennale.

The 15th Gwangju Biennale represents a significant milestone for Qatar as it highlights the nation’s commitment to fostering global cultural exchange and promoting its artistic heritage on an international stage. The Qatar Pavilion’s exhibition, “Knock, Rain, Knock,” not only explores the theme of rain through art but also serves as a platform for discussing broader issues such as environmental sustainability and the impact of climate change. By featuring works from a diverse group of artists, the Pavilion emphasizes the intersection of tradition and contemporary thought, offering a unique perspective on how Qatar’s cultural practices and religious traditions are intertwined with modern concerns. This participation underscores Qatar Museums’ ongoing efforts to position Qatar as a leading hub for art and culture.

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Supported by esteemed entities such as the Government of Goa, the Corporation of The City of Panaji, the Directorate of Art and Culture, Goa, the Entertainment Society of Goa, the Goa Tourism Department, Panaji Smart City, and the Goa Forest Department, the festival boasted a diverse curatorial lineup. Notable figures like Sandeep Kumar Sangaru, Chef Thomas Zacharias, Bickram Ghosh, Geeta Chandran, and Quasar Thakore Padamsee, among others, led the way in crafting a unique artistic experience.

Spanning 18 locations, including cultural spaces like the Old GMC Complex, the Art Park, Azad Maidan, Dinanath Mangeshkar Kala Mandir ESG Complex, and Nagalli Hills, the festival engaged visitors of all ages with visual, sensorial, and interactive experiences. From the electrifying performance by tabla maestro Zakir Hussain to the enchanting closing by Shilpa Rao, musical evenings were a standout feature.

This year’s edition prioritized inclusivity, especially in its children’s programming led by ThinkArts at the “Young at Art: Children’s Corner.” Workshops and interactive sessions aimed to unleash the creative imagination of young minds, exemplified by Sananda Mukhopadhyaya’s play “Saglejan Kheltat” (Everyone Plays), commissioned by the NGO Quest.

The festival also delved into the realm of sound and visuals with exhibits like “Synaesthetic Notations,” curated by Veerangana Solanki. Works from 15 artists explored the interplay between sound and visual imagery, offering a captivating experience for attendees. Artist Satya’s production, “Hello? Who is Speaking,” used sound and fragmented glass to delve into the layered meaning of ‘self.’

Addressing the pressing issue of climate change, the festival showcased mixed-media exhibitions at the Old PWD Complex. Exhibitions like “Time As a Mother” and “Roots to Resilience” highlighted the fragile relationship between humans and nature, providing unique perspectives on environmental challenges.

Serendipity Arts Festival 2023 also aimed to foster discussions on mental health, body acceptance, and loneliness through workshops, performances and plays. Notable projects included the play “Jump,” which sensitively addressed the topic of suicide, and workshops like “Hello Body” and “The Rhythm in Nothingness.”

In addition to commissioned projects, the festival partnered with institutions globally, weaving cross-cultural narratives and bringing forth diverse artistic creations. Noteworthy projects like “Pixel” and “Epicentre” showcased the intersection of technology, dance, and storytelling.

Ms. Smriti Rajgarhia, Director of Serendipity Arts Foundation & Festival, expressed delight in the collaborative success of the festival, emphasizing the role of culture as a diplomatic tool.

The 2023 edition of the festival featured over 150 events, showcasing the works of more than 1500 artists, with around 15 commissioned works and an exploration of diverse practices and artistic creations through a unique lens. This marked the 8th edition of the festival, with two digitally hosted editions in 2020 and 2021.

For more information about the festival, visit www.serendipityartsfestival.com.

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In a recent document released by the World Heritage Committee, a body within UNESCO responsible for designating heritage sites, the Italian government was criticized for not making sufficient progress in implementing protective measures for the ancient city. UNESCO had previously urged Italian policymakers to take concrete actions to preserve Venice’s cultural and architectural treasures, emphasizing the importance of the city’s sustainability.

Environmental scientists have been closely monitoring the impact of climate change on the city’s fragile infrastructure. Rising sea levels and the associated risks to the underwater structures have been a recurring concern for the cultural agency. In 2019, UNESCO issued a warning regarding the potential threats posed by cruise ships passing through Venice’s main lagoon, which could destabilize the city’s foundations.

Responding to these concerns, the Italian government took action in August 2021 by banning large commercial vessels from entering the San Marco and Giudecca canals, a move aimed at safeguarding the city’s unique environment. Despite these measures, UNESCO believes that further collaboration and efforts are necessary to address the environmental damage to Venice’s delicate ecosystem.

However, some officials within the Italian government’s culture ministry have voiced concerns over the potential impact of UNESCO’s designation on tourism, which remains a significant economic driver for the water-locked city. Balancing the need for preservation with sustainable tourism will be a delicate task for policymakers.

The recommended inclusion of Venice in UNESCO’s list of endangered sites is intended to mobilize preservation efforts and raise awareness of the city’s vulnerabilities. However, the final decision will be made at the agency’s upcoming summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in September. The summit will bring together 21 member organizations, who will vote on Venice’s status.

UNESCO emphasizes the importance of continuing to maintain the protective sea walls that were implemented by Italian officials in response to previous warnings. Cooperation between the Italy cabinet overseeing culture and UNESCO in devising further measures to address environmental threats is also encouraged to ensure the long-term sustainability of Venice’s unique cultural heritage.

The fate of Venice, a city steeped in history and cherished by millions of visitors, now hangs in the balance. As the global community faces increasing environmental challenges, concerted efforts are required to protect and preserve cultural sites like Venice for generations to come.

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This day provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and governments to come together and act towards addressing these issues. The theme of World Environment Day changes every year, with a focus on different environmental concerns. One of the key aspects of World Environment Day is its emphasis on individual action. While governments and organizations have a crucial role to play in addressing environmental challenges, it is ultimately up to each one of us to make a difference. On this day, individuals are encouraged to make small changes in their daily lives that can have a significant impact on the environment.

This could be anything from using public transport or cycling instead of driving, reducing single-use plastic consumption, or trying to recycle. In addition to individual action, World Environment Day is also an opportunity for governments and organizations to commit to ambitious environmental goals. World Environment Day is coordinated worldwide by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to create plans and programmes to address environmental threats. The natural world is also a focus of World Environment Day celebrations. Around the world, people participate in planting trees, beach clean-ups, and nature walks to mark the occasion. Such gatherings help people appreciate nature and understand the value of protecting the planet’s natural resources.

The annual observance of World Environment Day serves as an important reminder of the importance of taking action to preserve our planet and advance sustainability on a worldwide basis. We can create a better, more sustainable future for everyone using individual effort, government policy, and partnerships across many groups and interests. Take this opportunity to consider your personal environmental footprint and make an approach to foster a more sustainable future.

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To start off, an innovative workshop titled “Paper & Scissors – The Art of Sustainability” is conducted in collaboration with coach Sarah Al Emadi. This workshop educates children about sustainability through storytelling and interactive activities, aligning with MBRL’s vision of supporting sustainability initiatives and raising awareness about climate change challenges.

In honour of the late Egyptian author Ahmed Khaled Tawfik, the library presents the “Coffee & Book – Paranormal” event, focusing on Tawfik’s immensely popular series “Paranormal.” This event explores the success of fictional novels, which have sold over 15 million copies worldwide, and their adaptation into a Netflix series. Set in 1960s Egypt, the series follows the adventures of Dr. Refaat Ismail as he uncovers the secrets behind extraordinary events.

The Library Days monthly events offer participants the opportunity to engage with influential figures and benefit from their knowledge. One such event is “The George Orwell Days,” featuring highlights from Orwell’s life, quotes, and a panel discussion on the dystopian novel and its predictions of reality in Orwell’s literature. The session also delves into the analysis of Orwell’s book “Animal Farm” with the participation of notable guests.

In celebration of World Storytelling Day, an educational workshop led by creative writer Noura Khoury encourages young adults and children to develop their creative writing skills. The workshop, titled “Paper & Scissors – This is My Story,” combines theoretical and hands-on activities to inspire creativity and imagination.

Additionally, MBRL introduces its summer events and activities program, including the “Arabic Calligraphy for Beginners” workshop.

MBRL invites visitors to join these diverse and exciting events that aim to provide educational opportunities and expand knowledge across society. For more information, please visit the official website: https://www.mbrl.ae/ar/web/guest/about-the-library

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Additionally, nothing will become dark. The goal is to cut off unnecessary lighting. You won’t have to work by candlelight or sit in the dark for an hour.

On the other hand, it might be enjoyable to spend an hour in the dark. But the decision is entirely yours.

Earth Hour is an annual event that encourages people and organizations to turn off their non-essential lights for one hour as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about the importance of taking action to combat climate change. The event has been taking place since 2007 and is organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

The goals and implications of Earth Hour 2023 include:

• Raising awareness: The primary goal of Earth Hour is to raise awareness about the need to take action to combat climate change. By participating in the event, individuals and organizations can show their support for this cause and encourage others to do the same.
• Encouraging action: In addition to raising awareness, Earth Hour also aims to encourage individuals and organizations to take concrete actions to reduce their carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment.
• Promoting renewable energy: Earth Hour is an opportunity to promote the use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
• Building a global movement: Earth Hour is a global event that brings together people from all over the world to demonstrate their commitment to the environment. By participating in Earth Hour, individuals and organizations can become part of a larger movement to create a more sustainable future.
• Advocating for policy changes: Earth Hour is an opportunity to advocate for policy changes at the local, national, and international levels that support efforts to combat climate change. This can include supporting policies that promote renewable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and protect natural habitats.
• Generating media coverage: Earth Hour is a high-profile event that generates significant media coverage, which can help to amplify the message of the importance of taking action on climate change and inspire more people to get involved.
• Showing leadership: Participating in Earth Hour is a way for individuals and organizations to demonstrate their leadership and commitment to sustainability. By taking action to reduce their carbon footprint and promote renewable energy, they can inspire others to do the same and create a more sustainable future for all.

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The exhibition’s centerpiece comprises over twenty large-scale artworks and installations from The Lost Planet series. Since its inauguration in early 2019, the series has grown to over forty environmentally-centered contemporary works, fanning the artistic mission of Natalia Kapchuk and her portrayal of our current world. Each artwork focuses on the innate beauty of nature, either in its entirety or shrouded in the consequences of climate change and human activity, garnering inspiration from the expanses of the Sahara desert or the mounds of plastic littering the Pacific Ocean, among others.

In creating the physical art pieces, the artist found it essential to implement eco-friendly applications, incorporating elements like reclaimed wood, up-cycled plastics, and plant-based techniques and materials. Such intent reflects the global need for exercising safe alternative approaches to common yet destructive practices to thwart ecological decline. Moreover, to contrast naturally resourced and industrial materials, the artist utilizes mediums such as tree bark, sand, stones, and fermented moss with polymers, resi-crete, gilding, metal chips, and more. Pushing her artistic approach further, the artist works with fiberglass construction, LED lighting, and digital and augmented designs, continually developing her signature style.

One of the featured artworks, Ocean’s DNA (2019), constructed using a unique layering technique that combines planet-based resins with various natural materials such as fermented moss and repurposed sand from the coastline of the Maldives, will be on display. Another artwork, Fragment N°98203 (2020), dedicated to the plague of plastic pollution, is based on the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and is a collection of marine debris the artist harvested from the ocean, overtaking the artwork and obscuring the beauty that lies beneath it.

The message of environmental awareness and sustainability is needed now more than ever, as the current climate crisis ravages on. For Natalia Kapchuk, this sentiment takes center stage as her passion for creating captivating works of art lies beyond a mere means of expression but as an opportunity to make a difference. Her environmentally centered mixed-media artworks exemplify the unbridled beauty of our planet juxtaposed with the destructive forces of human activity and its impacts on our majestic lands and oceans.

Before creating her works, Kapchuk underwent extensive research on various topics related to global warming, ocean plastic and pollution, and other destructive impacts. Absorbing such information, the artist urges humanity to shift attention toward environmental protections and the conservation of natural resources and less on greed and consumption.

The Lost Planet series has traveled to various locations like the renowned Château de Crémat in Nice, France, and the Czong Institute for Contemporary Art in South Korea, spreading its message of environmental awareness, protection, and appreciation for public resonance. The series will return to the UAE for a solo exhibition at the ME Dubai Hotel, which was recently named the Most Sustainable Hotel Company in the world by the SAM Corporate Sustainability Assessment. The coveted title is for the company’s dedication to fostering change and implementing initiatives that positively impact local communities, society, and the environment.

Natalia Kapchuk is an environmentally focused contemporary artist dually based in London, UK, and Dubai, UAE.  She composes her works using a combination of different media or materials, highlighting key ecological issues, and the global effects caused by human pollution; emphasizing the importance of environmental protection. Kapchuk’s main point of focus is all life on this planet, the biodiversity it holds, various ecosystems, and the vast expanses of our beloved Oceans.  In a constant search for new means of expression, the artist experiments with a variety of unique mediums such as resi-crete, reclaimed woods and plastic, metallic grit, natural stones and crystals, diamond dust, gold leaf, etc. Kapchuk has a Bachelor’s degree from Ural State University, Russia in International Relations. She studied art at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in 2017 followed by The Chelsea College of Arts in London, UK. Natalia Kapchuk is an ambassador at The Parliamentary Society of Arts, Fashion, and Sports (UK), as well as, an ambassador for the Better World Fund (BWF).

Her works have been included in many group exhibitions like Anima Mundi International Art Festival, Venice (2019); London Contemporary, The Line Gallery, London (2019); Submergence, Jack Straw Cultural Center, Seattle (2021); and such digital projects as Emerging Scene Art Prize, Dubai and Abu Dhabi (2021); the Czong Institute for Contemporary Art (2022); Château de Crémat, Nice (2022).

Information provided by FprBuro Communication Agency.

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The Year of Sustainability also brings together UAE-based experts through the Sustainability Experts Network to promote collaborative, sustainable practices among everyone that calls the UAE home.

Through a series of action-led activations, the Year of Sustainability aims to encourage individuals and the community to adopt an environmentally-conscious lifestyle in order to drive significant changes towards a more sustainable future.

One of this initiative’s primary areas of focus is promoting sustainable food practices. The upcoming activations will thus encourage the community to reduce food waste, portion food responsibly and promote plant-based diets to promote a healthier and more sustainable food culture in the UAE. In addition, the Year of Sustainability also aims to promote sustainable fashion by encouraging residents to switch to slow fashion and support more eco-friendly brands.

This will run in parallel with the ongoing support of the Sustainability Experts Network, which assembles UAE-based experts with a deep understanding of the country’s context to focus on addressing sustainability in various fields, encourage positive behavioural changes and foster public participation in three key areas: promoting responsible consumption, encouraging conservation initiatives, and inspiring collective action to impede climate change.

The experts will provide research support, and inform the Year of Sustainability team of relevant policies and initiatives by public and private entities, as well as offer  insights on best practices. More detailed information about the Network will be available to the public soon.

The Year of Sustainability activations, overseen by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, will include a series of community-led initiatives, activities, and campaigns throughout the year that will draw upon the nation’s rich heritage and strong sense of sustainability, and aim to demonstrate the UAE’s commitment towards a sustainable future to protect its land, resources, and people.

As the country prepares to host the 28th session of the United Nations climate summit Conference of the Parties (COP28) this year, the activations further solidify the UAE’s commitment towards promoting sustainable practices at an individual and community level – and invites the public to embark on a collective journey towards progress whilst reflecting on the resilience of its ancestors in ensuring a sustainable ecosystem for future generations.

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The Fall 2022 Program is in discussion with Warehouse421 fall group exhibition; On Foraging: Food Knowledge and Environmental Imaginaries in The UAE’s Landscape.  Warehouse421 is a home-grown arts and design center dedicated to showcasing and nurturing creative production across the region. Working in collaboration with local, regional, and international entities, it aims to aid the development of the UAE’s creative ecosystem through learning, research, and commissions.

Warehouse421 states that human beings have acquired knowledge throughout history from the natural environment around them. It has heavily influenced our cultures and lifestyles and has formed our food habits, architecture, fashion, crafts, community spaces, and culinary traditions. “Our ecological contexts shaped our ways of life,” states Warehouse421.

From the cultivation of plants, and animals we raise, the geography, and observation of the stars high above have historically been based on the natural environment that shaped our cultures, lifestyles, and crafts. With the rise of consumerism and the excess need to build higher, grow larger, and live bigger, we dug further into the Earth uprooting our source of grounding. In time, we began distancing ourselves from the natural environment, which helps mold us, and each other. 

The Fall 2022 Program is an enlightening program that promises a wide-ranging public program to reconnect nature and humans, which includes talks, workshops, and special events that are a mindful exploration of collaborative and creative approaches to thinking about climate action.  It is an extensive and robust public engagement program presented by Warehouse421 yet.

Kindly note a ‘green’ status on Al Hosn App is required to participate in the event. You can also present a 48-hour negative PCR test result if you are unvaccinated. 

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