Merex Investment’s commitment to sustainability takes a creative turn as it invites students from Dubai schools to transform waste into art at its lifestyle destinations – City Walk, The Beach, and JBR. This innovative initiative, launched in November 2023, addresses two pressing environmental challenges: urban waste and marine pollution. Through collaboration with renowned sustainability artist Christine Wilson and leading schools, Merex Investment strives to offer an engaging and educational experience for visitors while fostering environmental consciousness and nurturing the future eco-conscious leaders of the UAE.
Merex Investment’s Eco-Art Collaboration
Partnering with Prominent Artist Christine Wilson
Merex Investment’s sustainability program has joined forces with Christine Wilson, a prominent sustainability artist and the founder of Dubai-based design studio Peahead.eco. With her expertise in creating large-scale interactive art installations and upcycled fashion accessories, Christine is set to guide and inspire students to add value and aesthetic appeal to waste and recycled materials.
The Participating Schools
Six leading schools have enthusiastically embraced this eco-art collaboration:
- Innoventures Education Schools: Raffles International School, Raffles World Academy, and the Collegiate International School.
- Lycée Français International de l’AFLEC.
These schools are divided into two groups, each focusing on different aspects of waste transformation.
Tackling Urban Waste
Students from Innoventures Education schools will take on the challenge of converting city waste materials, including fabric, plastic, and glass, into captivating interactive installations. These artworks will be displayed at City Walk starting from April 2024.
Confronting Ocean Debris
Lycée Français International de l’AFLEC students will work with similar materials – plastic, paper, and cans – to create innovative sculptures. These sculptures will find their home at The Beach, JBR, where visitors can engage with them starting in April.
Empowering Young Planet Protectors
Knowledge and Resources
Since the inception of this program, students have been equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to take on urgent global environmental issues. Through workshops and interactive sessions, they gain a deeper understanding of recycling and sustainable practices, paving the way for a greener future.
Christine Iris Wilson’s Perspective
Christine Iris Wilson, the artist leading this creative journey, expresses her enthusiasm for the initiative:
“I am thrilled to be part of this sustainability initiative by Merex Investment, where young minds in Dubai will transform waste and learn about sustainable materials, creating something meaningful. As an artist, I have always focused on adding value and aesthetic appeal to materials that would otherwise be discarded. This project allows me to work with students to delve into that creative process and show them that art has the power to convey powerful messages and can educate the public about mindful consumption while still being fun. I hope that, together, we can leave a positive and lasting impact on both the local community and the broader discourse on eco-conscious living.”
Poonam Bhojani’s Vision
Poonam Bhojani, CEO of Innoventures Education, shares her excitement:
“We are delighted to have our students participate in this innovative program by Merex Investment. As collaborative team members and caring members of the community, Innoventures Education students were a natural choice to co-create these installations made from environmental waste. Through this artistic collaboration, our students will not only garner valuable experience in teamwork and strategic thinking, but they will also hopefully contribute to much larger national goals of living sustainably and positively impacting the planet. We cannot wait to see the exciting outcomes of this collaboration.”
Bertrand Malifarges’ Gratitude
Bertrand Malifarges of Lycée Français International de l’AFLEC extends his gratitude:
“We extend our gratitude to Merex Investment for providing our students with this enriching opportunity. Our children are creating innovative installations using waste and recycled materials and becoming agents of positive change. The UAE stands at the forefront of global sustainability endeavours, and we must all play a role in advancing this cause. This initiative perfectly encapsulates our commitment to providing students with an education beyond the classroom so that they can sculpt a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone.”
The Eco-Art Journey
Launched in November 2023, this initiative embarked on a multi-phase journey:
- Material Collection: The first few months were dedicated to gathering the materials needed for the artworks, highlighting the importance of resource management and waste reduction.
- Installation Build Phase: The installation build phase commenced following the material collection. Students, guided by Christine Wilson, began crafting their eco-art pieces.
- Interactive Workshops: This year, the initiative is shifting towards interactive workshops, where students will enhance their understanding of recycling and sustainable practices. This hands-on experience will empower them to drive positive change in their communities.
Conclusion
Merex Investment’s eco-art initiative stands as a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future. By empowering students to transform waste into art, this program addresses environmental challenges and nurtures eco-conscious leaders. With the guidance of sustainability artist Christine Wilson, the youth of Dubai are on a path to creating meaningful and lasting change in their communities and beyond. As these eco-art installations grace City Walk and The Beach, JBR, starting in April 2024, they will be a powerful reminder of the transformative power of creativity and sustainability.
