Dubai: Launched in 2011, Plastic-Free July has been a global movement encouraging people to avoid single-use plastics for an entire month. This year, Art4You Gallery’s artist activists have taken the initiative to unprecedented heights by organizing events that call for sustainable solutions to combat plastic pollution at its source. Art4you Gallery has launched its PLASTIC FREE JULY Art Events to inspire millions across the UAE. Throughout July, the gallery is hosting various art activations to promote cultural shifts towards reducing plastic use. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of sustainability, encouraging a reassessment of production, consumption, and artistic methods. Art4you Gallery is notably the only community in the UAE registered with the Plastic Free July organization for this significant 2024 campaign. Events include sustainability-themed live art, eco-friendly nature-themed live painting, an art exhibition, a plastic-free morning tea, and a networking event.The gallery’s initiatives align with the broader goals of Plastic-Free July, which include reusing materials, reducing single-use plastics, and raising awareness about ocean plastic pollution.
Throughout the month, Art4You Gallery has hosted a series of events that bring attention to the critical issue of plastic waste. One of the highlights of the gallery’s Plastic-Free July events has been the work of Jesno Jackson. Renowned for her educational efforts on plastic pollution, Jackson’s activations in multiple locations have provided eye-opening insights into the impact of plastic on our environment. Her work has been instrumental in driving home the message of Plastic-Free July, making a significant difference in the community’s understanding of the issue. The events organized by Art4You Gallery have had a ripple effect, inspiring community members to take action. From workshops on reusing materials to public art displays that highlight the dangers of plastic pollution, the gallery has created a multifaceted approach to tackling this global problem. The emphasis has been on actionable steps that individuals and communities can take to reduce their plastic footprint.
12 International artists, emphasized the importance of these efforts with an Eco-friendly Live Art titled SAY NO TO PLASTIC. This community activation on plastic free pollution really opened eyes to all the issues and facts through Plastic-Free, which really made the difference. Art4you’s “Say No to Plastic – #GoGreen” event on July 12th, 2024, at The Green Revolution in Dubai, aimed to inspire creativity while promoting environmental consciousness. In celebration of Plastic Free July, this interactive session featured creative eco-friendly live art with a focus on reused glass bottle art incorporating water plants. Attendees were encouraged to dress in white or green to align with the event’s theme. Event supported and registered with Plastic Free July Foundation, was curated by Jesno Jackson with sustainability partner The Green Revolution Dubai to support the occasion. Guest of Honor – Ms. Sanaa Lamlih and Speaker and VIP Guest – Peter Farrington – Environment Conservationist, graced the event. Participated artists include Dima Albitar, Rafah Abdul Razzak from Syria, Jesno Jackson, Maniyar Bhumika from India, Rizwana Najeen from Srilanka, Mehboobeh Shahnavas, Anahita Ansaripour, Shakiba Rabiei, Fara Aletaha from Iran, and Labiba Ferhat from Algeria.
Sustainable art seeks to make us think more deeply about the impact that our lifestyle choices have on the planet. Art is an ideal medium for conveying crucial messages about the state of our planet and society. This virtual art exhibition, features both renowned and emerging artists, tackles the pressing issue of plastic pollution, which has become a major concern in contemporary life, according to Jesno Jackson, Founder of Art4you. Single-use plastics are contaminating our oceans, entering the food chain through marine life, and ultimately becoming part of our diet.
Renowned artist Vincent van Gogh, was able to bring aspects of nature to life in his paintings. His work has allowed people to understand nature in different forms and bring people together. A recent exhibit of his work brought people together for a visual and thrilling experience. Artist Vangogh inspired plastic free live painting on the wooden box with a group of 15 International artists at the Reem Art Gallery on 27th July. Some of the artists were Mana Razeghi, Bharati Mehansi, Rachel John, Dalal Hamed Taleb, Lavanya Varma, Mozhgan Afrisham, Rizwana, Mehboobeh, Anahita, Eashan Dasgupta, Labiba Ferhat, Rafah, Jesno Jackson, Dima, Afshan Nawaz Khan are some of them.
Art4You Gallery’s dedication to Plastic-Free July has set a powerful example of how art and activism can intersect to create meaningful change. Art4you Gallery share the gratitude to the prominent guests who supported the initiative – Mr. Muhammad Yusuf (Features Writer, Gulf Today), Hanan Al Nuami (Emirati Novelist), Latha Palthi (Social Activist and Influencer) & Arts (Gift Partner). Through the combined efforts of artists, activists, and community members, Art4You Gallery has shown that together, we can make a significant difference in protecting our planet.
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