The artistic world and environment merge at the opening of REUSE 2.0

The exhibition will be opened officially by the Minister of State for Municipality Affairs, H.E. Dr. Fadel Safar. This will be followed by introductions from the Chairman and Managing Director of MRC, Mr. Khaled Al-Mutawa and Corporate Communication and Relations Department Manager of Zain, Kuwait Ms. Khuloud A. Al-Feeli.

The exhibition highlights renowned international artist Hassan Hajjaj. Born in Morocco, Hajjaj moved to London while in his teens and quickly became a part of the thriving British arts circle. After working in the local club scene, he launched his own clothing and accessories label RAP in 1984. During his days in London, he also made paintings, designed furniture, and restaurant interiors. Nevertheless, he never forgot his Middle Eastern roots, which still influences his work today.

Hassan Hajjaj commented on the emergence of recycling art in the Arab world:

"In countries like Morocco I could see that more art was circulating in the street than among the artists with pre-formulated Western ideas. I saw more visual worth in the innovative objects manufactured in the craft workshops open to the streets and squares in Marrakech and am delighted to explore the creative designs that come out of Kuwait."

The artist emphasized that he is proud to be a part of an exciting project like REUSE 2.0 and echoed its importance to the local arts scene and raising environmental awareness in Kuwait.

"This is an endeavour I know will resonate with those who attend. And they will not only develop a new appreciation for art, but they will also leave the event knowing that every contribution to recycling and reducing waste, no matter how small, helps nature and the environment we live," Hajjaj added.

In addition to guest speakers and local professional artists from Kuwait, aspiring creative students from high schools and universities showcase their creations in the fields of art, design, photography and more. The event is open to the public from 6 pm to 9 pm from the 30th of November to the 2nd of December. Special student trips have been organised on each of the mornings from 10 am to 1 pm.

The objective of the REUSE 2.0 show is to raise greater awareness in Kuwait about the importance and benefits of recycling and reducing waste while emphasizing the magnitude of everyone's role in preserving the environment.

REUSE 2.0 is the culmination of the vision of three environmentally conscious organisations, (Zain, MRC and The en.v Initiative), who have teamed up to demonstrate the eclectic nature of art and beauty in recycled objects. All the works on display, by the diverse range of artists, are on sale this year via a silent auction - adding a new exciting dimension to the exhibition.

The committee of organisers expect this event to be an artistic wonder that will allow the audience to enjoy the event and take away a sense commitment to the natural world and the significance of looking after it for this and future generations.