’Skittles’ by Ewa’a Residents (2013-2015). Courtesy of Ewaa exhibition
’Skittles’ by Ewa’a Residents (2013-2015). Courtesy of Ewaa exhibition

Silent Voices raise hope for victims of human trafficking



These paintings and artworks have been done by victims of human trafficking, who are all under the wing of Ewa'a Shelters. Tutored and guided by local Abu Dhabi based artist Jen Simon, the pieces are collected under the title Silent Voices and displayed in exhibition which aims to raise awareness of the ongoing issue of human trafficking in the UAE.

This is the fourth edition of the annual event and as with previous years, all the work will be sold through an auction process to provide funds for the 24 artists involved as well as other women and children at the Ewa’a Shelters across the UAE in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.

Silent Voices IV comprises over 80 pieces of art, including works on canvas, tables, chairs and plates and it is centered around a monumental installation of ten human-sized fiberglass bowling pins decorated by survivors in acrylic, ceramic and mosaic.

The pieces range in price from Dh150 to Dh7000 and it is hoped that the proceeds will make a lasting difference to these women’s lives.

The exhibition was opened by Hoda Al Khamis-Kanoo, the Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation. She says: “The strength, courage and determination of the women of Ewa’a is to be admired. From artworks that convey the fear and darkness of life, to pieces that reflect optimism and desire to reinvent the future, we can see the positive impact art can have on people during their rehabilitation. The issue of human trafficking is something that needs to be brought to the fore, and I greatly admire the team at Ewa’a for their commitment and determination to help these women on the road to recovery through the power of art.”

* Silent Voices is open in Yas Mall’s Pearl Court until Thursday May 14, daily from 10am - 10pm.

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