ABU DHABI // An art exhibition showcasing work honouring the UAE’s martyrs opened at Yas Mall on Thursday.
The Proud Expressions initiative started in November and encouraged Emirati and expatriate artists to show support for the country’s heroes.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoun bin Mohammed, director of the Martyrs’ Families Affairs Office at the Crown Prince Court – Abu Dhabi, opened the exhibition.
More than 300 submissions were received and an expert panel selected the works that will be displayed in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.
The initiative unites artists from various backgrounds in expressing their pride and gratitude, said Sheikh Khalifa.
The works include pieces by prominent Emirati artists – including Abdul Qader Al Rais, Dr Najat Makki, Jalal Loqman, Azza Al Qubaisi, Obaid Suroor and Abdulrahim Salem – and international artists, including Ludmila Panenkova, Jack Lee and Charlie Villagracia.
The opening was attended by Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority.
The work will be displayed at Yas Mall until May 6.
The works will then be showcased at Dubai Mall from May 8 to 15 and Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Hamra Mall from May 17 to 24.
