Tenacious: Funun Arts Group and Novotel Sharjah Expo Center join hands for show

Funun Arts Group marks its ten-year journey with the fourth chapter of its Epochs of Art series, titled Light in Motion: Impressionism to Post-Impressionism, in collaboration with Novotel Sharjah Expo Center, a leading hospitality destination in the UAE. The exhibition (Apr. 24 – Jun. 24) was inaugurated by artist-guests including Ahmed Al Awadhi, Abdul Jabbar Weiss, Majd Faraj and Anjini Prakash Laitu, in the presence of Robin Solomon, General Manager of Novotel Sharjah Expo Center, in the hotel premises.

A distinguished gathering of artists, cultural leaders and members of the creative community were present at the event. Since it is being held at one of Sharjah’s prominent hospitality and cultural venues, the exhibition reflects not only a celebration of art history, but is also a reflection of Funun Arts Group’s decade-long journey of connecting cultures, nurturing talent, and building a thriving artistic ecosystem in the UAE and beyond.

The evening began with an immersive meditative painting session, which set the tone for the event. Participants were invited to slow down, reconnect with their inner selves and engage with art beyond its visual aspects — transforming the inaugural into a mindful and emotional experience. The thoughtful curation aligned with the exhibition’s central theme, which explores the interplay between light, movement, and emotion. Welcoming the guests, Solomon emphasised the role of art in creating meaningful community experiences.

Omar Ezzat Habra's work.

“At Novotel Sharjah Expo Center, we are committed to fostering spaces that go beyond hospitality,” he said. “We create spaces that inspire creativity, connection, and wellbeing. Light in Motion beautifully captures the essence of how art can influence emotions and bring people together in a positive and reflective environment.”

Shiba Khan, Founder and Director, Funun Arts Group, spoke about the significance of the exhibition within the organisation’s broader journey. “As we celebrate 10 years of Funun Arts Group,” she said, “this exhibition holds a special place in our journey. It is not just about showcasing artworks; it is about creating experiences that connect people with art on a deeper level. Light in Motion represents a dialogue between time and emotion, where Impressionism captures fleeting moments of light, and post-Impressionism transforms them into powerful expressions of individuality and meaning.”

She elaborated on the curatorial concept, highlighting how the exhibition bridged two transformative art movements, namely, Impressionism, known for its focus on capturing transient light and everyday moments, laying the foundation for a new way of seeing the world and Post-Impressionism, which moved beyond visual perception, embracing emotion, symbolism, and personal expression. Together, these movements represent a pivotal shift in the history of art — one that continues to influence contemporary artistic practices. Following the opening remarks, guests were invited to explore the exhibition, displayed elegantly across the mezzanine level of the hotel.

Work by Syrian artist Hana Kanjo.

The collection brings together a diverse group of artists from multiple nationalities, each presenting an individual interpretation of the theme. The exhibition creates a vibrant cultural dialogue, where colours, textures and techniques, reflect both individual perspectives and shared human experiences. One of the defining aspects of the evening was the opportunity for direct interaction between artists and visitors. Each participating artist shared the story behind their work, offering insights into their creative processes, inspirations, and emotional journeys. The personal engagement added depth to the viewing experience, transforming the exhibition into an interactive and thought-provoking encounter.

The exhibition showcases works by an impressive lineup of international artists including Abduljabbar Weiss (Syria), Amani Fekry (Egypt), Anjini Prakash Laitu (India), Diana Arutyunyan (Armenia), Dr. Anum Anwar Ali (Pakistan), Dr. Poonam Chauhan (India), Farah Khan (India), Hana Kanjo (Syria), Maisara Mamdoh (Egypt), Nadia R. Khartabil (Syria), Nataliia Venerova (Russia), Nazmin Rasheed (India), Nirmeen Hashim (Egypt), Omar Ezzat Habra (Syria), Pari Sagar (India), Rita Chehab (Lebanon), Seham Elwazery (Egypt), Shimaa Kellaney (Egypt), Shraboni Banerji (India), Soobika Fawad (Pakistan), and Veinna Fouad (Syria). Abduljabbar Weiss highlighted the deeper essence of artistic expression. “Art is not only about creation — it is a language of the soul,” he said. “In moments of stillness, we rediscover our deepest expressions, and this exhibition beautifully brings that essence to life.” Participating artist Nataliia Venerova said that “this exhibition allows me to slow down and paint not just what I see, but what I feel. It is a reminder that art is as much about inner stillness as it is about expression.”

Shiba Khan (left) and Farah Khan.

Over the past decade, Funun Arts Group has established itself as a dynamic platform that bridges artists, communities, and industries. With a network of artists from over 50 nationalities and a portfolio of exhibitions, workshops, and cultural initiatives, the organisation plays a pivotal role in shaping the region’s creative landscape. Group initiatives focus not only on showcasing art, but also on empowering artists, encouraging dialogue, and creating impactful cultural experiences. Light in Motion stands as a reminder of this vision — bringing together diverse voices, perspectives and artistic expressions, in a unified space of creativity and connection.

The exhibition highlights how art can transcend boundaries, evoke emotions and foster a sense of shared humanity. “Funun Arts Group reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of art, where tradition meets innovation, and where every artistic expression becomes a bridge between people, ideas, and possibilities,” said Farah Khan, Co-Director of Funun Arts Group. Novotel Sharjah Expo Center is strategically located next to Expo Centre Sharjah. With modern facilities, the hotel serves as a hub for business, cultural, and community events, actively supporting initiatives that promote art, wellbeing, and purposeful connections.