Preserving culture through art!

A guardian of culture tells her tale!

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AFSHAN NAWAZ KHAN

OUR OWN ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL, DUBAI (GIRLS)

I am a 15-year-old visual artist of Indian nationality based in Dubai. I specialize in watercolor paintings and pen and pencil sketches on paper. My artistic journey is deeply rooted in sustainability, as I strive to spark conversations about the future of our planet through my work. My passion for art began at the age of nine, and by 13, I was exhibiting my creations. Today, I use social media—particularly my Instagram account, @cre8ivekidcreations—to share my creativity with a global audience. I firmly believe that artists are the guardians of culture, documenting and reflecting the times they live in. Art, much like a time capsule, often offers a deeper and more truthful perspective on history. For example, Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ and Francisco Goya’s ‘The Third of May 1808’ serve as powerful artistic indictments against the horrors of war—lessons the world still needs today.

I am passionate about capturing and preserving cultures through my art. Some of my works include the Ashoka Stambh, representing Indian civilization, the Sphinx, symbolizing Egyptian heritage, an Empress from the Byzantine Empire, and the Noor Masjid of Sharjah. My most recent artwork was crafted from sustainable materials, reinforcing my advocacy for environmental preservation. This commitment was recognized when I won the Blue Dot at COP28 in Dubai for my painting on climate change. Over the years, I have exhibited my work in more than 25 art exhibitions worldwide, won 9 inter-school art competitions, and received the UNICEF – MENA Blue Dot Award for COP28. I am also honored to hold the position of General Secretary for the India Department in UNESCO International Art Action. My work has taken me to exhibitions in the UAE, USA, Türkiye, and Georgia, and I had the privilege of meeting the Ruler of Sharjah at the Sharjah Arabic Forum, where I was a participant. I have always been fascinated by how art

intertwines with society. From independence struggles to women’s freedom movements, art has played a crucial role in shaping history and celebrating diversity. One of my notable pieces, ‘Eternal Love’, inspired by the timeless love story of Titanic, was featured in a major Retro Show at Paramount Hotel Midtown, Dubai. Looking ahead, I aim to exhibit my artworks in more countries, connect with fellow artists, and create a platform in the UAE for collaborative solutions to pressing global concerns. My paintings narrate stories, preserve traditions, and serve as valuable cultural records for present and future generations.

At fifteen, I am just beginning my journey as an artist. As I grow, I hope to harness the immense power of art to influence, challenge, and inspire positive change in society!