‘The Emotions of the Oceans’, a unique exhibition by children in Muscat, opened at Matti Sirvio Art Galleria on Saturday evening, unveiling a new chapter of intrigue and imploration to conserve the oceans and its resources for the larger welfare of humankind

They have seen innumerable abstract interpretations of tumultuous as well as placid emotions, of radiance as well as gloom, of desperation as well as doom, of fantasy, ecstasy as well as lunacy. But now comes a little jolt, of silent revolt, through innocent eyes…

The mundane walls of Matti Sirvio Art Galleria, in Jawharat al Shatti, which often come alive with the vibrant works of budding as well as established international artists, are now adorned with what may be called ‘little innocent dreams’ to make the world a better place to live in – with a focus on the oceans.

On Saturday evening, a unique exhibition titled ‘The Emotions of the Oceans’, created by young school children, was inaugurated under the auspices of Sumaira Chowdhury, UNICEF representative in Oman, in the presence of Ibtisam Al Salmi, Oman national sailor, who was invited as a special guest.

The exhibition hosted by Matti Sirvio Art Galleria, in partnership with The Green Life Art Center, sought to foster artistic and emotional growth by encouraging children to interpret and express personal feelings inspired by marine life. Through themes of calmness, fear, joy, and mystery, young artists have used marine elements – such as diverse sea creatures, underwater habitats, and the dynamic ocean – to reflect on the ways that nature parallels human emotion.

In addition to developing their artistic skills, the participants engaged in self-expression, connecting with their inner emotional worlds while considering the importance of marine conservation. Marine life, with its richness and diversity, symbolises the depth and complexity of human emotions, allowing these young artists to portray feelings in a way that resonates deeply, a statement said.

‘Seas are under pressure’

Responding to Muscat Daily, to a query on the importance of ocean conservation, Sumaira Chowdhury said, “We in the Sultanate of Oman are fortunate to be surrounded by the ocean – yet we know the seas are under pressure like never before. Helping children understand the importance of preserving our oceans and reducing human-generated waste is not only crucial for their future but also vital for our planet’s survival. Oceans are essential to life on Earth, influencing everything, from our climate to the air we breathe.

“This exhibition is a meaningful step toward building environmental awareness, bridging knowledge with art and action to inspire young minds as future champions of sustainability. As we approach the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Azerbaijan, it’s more evident than ever that we must prioritise children’s needs, rights, and perspectives in climate action. With climate shocks impacting nearly half of the world’s children, it’s urgent that leaders, and the next generation, work together to protect our shared future.”

Feelings of serenity and awe

Niasa Mobtada, founder of The Green Life Art Center, disclosed that the exhibition comprises 19 artworks (minimum size – 50×50 cm), representing a unique emotional perspective inspired by marine life, depicting feelings such as serenity, awe, curiosity, and wonder. The artworks have been carefully selected by a jury from Green Life Art Center and Matti Sirvio Gallery, ensuring that only the most expressive pieces are showcased.

This exhibition provides a platform for young artists to showcase their creativity, connect with the community, and gain an understanding of art’s role in promoting marine conservation, she said, adding that the participant young artists are from the age group of 8 to 15 years drawn from various schools, besides a few of independent backgrounds, showcasing a pool of diverse young talent.

The young artists have used various media, such as water colours, acrylics, and mixed media, each piece creatively capturing the theme. The exhibits take the viewer to the depths of the seabed as well as afloat on the waves; face to face with delicate yet interesting marine life, and through robust interpretations of creative solutions to refine and rejuvenate the waters.

“The children were encouraged to interpret ‘emotions of the oceans’, representing feelings like calmness, fear, joy, and mystery through marine imagery. They embraced this challenge wonderfully, bringing unique perspectives that both, adhere to and expand, upon the theme,” she said, adding, “The jury is thoroughly impressed and feels that the submissions have not only met but, in many cases, surpassed our expectations in creativity, skill, and depth of expression.”

The artworks at this exhibition, which runs until November 29, will be available for sale during the exhibition while unsold works will be returned to the artists or kept for future exhibitions, she said.

She further disclosed, “This theme was chosen to foster an emotional connection between young artists and marine life. At Green Life Art Center, we focus on environmental awareness, aiming to inspire both, creativity and a sense of stewardship, for the oceans.”

The top three artworks will be awarded. While the first and second place winners will be selected by the jury team, the third place will be determined by public voting. All participants will, however, receive a gift and a certificate as a token of appreciation for their involvement.

The top three entries declared at the inaugural ceremony were: Tamim al Mamari (first), Talia al Kharusi (second), and Zawan al Hooti (third).

Jury members speak

As a jury member for the Emotions of the Oceans exhibition, I am very impressed with the artworks. The children have shown great creativity in their interpretations of the theme. Their works reflect different feelings and ideas about the ocean. It is clear that they worked hard, and it was a pleasure to see so many different styles and expressions.

Humaid al Aufi, abstract artist

If children have been able to guard their fantasy and their authentic creativity without being hijacked by stereotypes and pragmatic copying, their art can help all of us. It puts a smile on our face. Many of the works in this exhibition will bring you joy and visual entertainment. The oceans are full of movement, joys and sorrows, silence and storms, mornings and evenings. We cannot afford to lose them.

Matti Sirvio, proprietor, Matti Sirvio Art Galleria