CATHERINE W GICHUKI
DOHA MINISTER of Culture, Arts and Heritage HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al Kuwari opened an art exhibition showcasing the works of students of Compass International School to mark World Environment Day (WED) at Grand Hyatt Hotel on Thursday.
The minister was assisted by John Todd, principal of the school.
The expo entitled ‘One Planet, One Future’ will come to an end on June 10 after which the works will be displayed at the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage.
The exhibition presents 38 pieces of work by children in grades seven and eight under the tutelage of art teacher Mhairi McAinsh.
The works are created with a variety of materials and techniques expressing individual interpretations of collage, recycled materials, among others.
The exhibition was inspired by the pioneering vision of Julian Cottenden, a noted environmentalist.
The opening was highlighted by a fashion show featuring various ensembles created by the children using recycled materials, such as newspapers, soft drink cans, plastic bags and used cloth.
A total of 23 outfits were showcased during the event.
The fashion show music and soundtrack was provided by DJs Jeppe Laursen, aged 12 and Mads Borg, aged 13, both students of Compass International School.
Among the works on display is a colourful canvas by Bart Roebers, 12, which he calls “Coral Reef” showing the treasures of the sea, while Isabel Cooper, aged 12 drew two palms holding soil and a small plant.
Three students created pictures of beautiful flowers.
Sarah Abdel-Naser’s work shows a hand holding the beautiful globe in blue and green.
There are other interesting works, like that by James Alufa aged 13, which tells the truth of the disastrous effect people have had on the environment and depicts the face of a man, with a poem, written by him.
Speaking to Qatar Tribune, art teacher Mhairi McAinsh said that it was a great opportunity for the students.
“I am proud that, after months of hard work, the students have come up with amazing art and interpretations which they are proud of.
Now, it is time to reward them with a show that will enable them to share their artistry and thoughts not only with their classmates, but also with friends and family, and the general public,” she said.
“This indeed has been a team effort and I am grateful to parent, Deon Ellis for helping me hang the exhibition, Gulf Colours for framing the work and parents who will be on hand on the day to help the models prepare for their catwalk debut.
