ADMAF supports UAE University emerging digital artists through programme of seminars and exhibition

The exhibition is a result of a larger programme of student work which has also included engaging seminars and lectures supported by ADMAF.

As part of their curriculum, exhibiting students took part in the Seminars in Mastering the Arts (SMART) programme, hosted by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. They participated in a series of master classes in digital photography, led by visiting artists-in-residence Bruce West and Gwen Walstrand from Missouri State University. Both of these experts are practising artists and art educators who have received significant recognition for their creative and scholarly work. Additionally, Mr Simon Bold from the UAE University assisted students with the physical printing of the digital photography artworks.

Mrs. Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, said:

"The art of photography using the digital medium is a unique craft that requires special skills and knowledge, and through our comprehensive educational programme, ADMAF is proud to be supporting budding Emirati photographers in their educational endeavours."

"Through participating in exhibitions such as this, the students benefit from real vocational learning, equipping them with the skills required to take their craft from the classroom to a professional environment. "

The exhibition is in keeping with ADMAF's mission to inspire creativity and a passion for the arts amongst young people. The year-round education programme held at universities and schools across the country aims to foster young artists, encourage emerging talents and cultivate an interest in and awareness of art and culture.

As part of the SMART programme funded by ADMAF at UAEU, a series of five 14-day cultural workshops and residencies by visiting artists and professionals in the arts took place on campus between October 2008 and March 2009. In addition to digital photography classes, workshops were presented to UAEU students in the arts of theatre and drama-in-education, film writing and production, and poetry writing. The SMART programme is part of an ongoing relationship following the signing of an MoU between ADMAF and UAEU in March of this year to support artistic events and competitions; assist with overseas interchange programmes and scholarships; support the development of creative projects in arts, media and technology; and explore other avenues to enhance and further mutual aims.

The digital photography students were responsible for all the end-to-end production of their art from conceptualising the initial idea through to final printing and mounting of each of the pieces now on display at Ghaf Gallery. The exhibition runs until the 26th September 2009.