KUWAIT: A group of talented Kuwaiti artists with special needs showcased their exceptional creativity at the 11th International Art Festival of the Egyptian Special Arts Association, held under the theme “Arts from Africa.” The event, hosted in Egypt, is sponsored for the third consecutive year by Kuwait’s National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), in collaboration with the Educational Curricula Company and the Egyptian Special Arts Association.

Wael Al-Jaber, Director of the Fine Arts Department at NCCAL, highlighted the significance of the exhibition during its opening at Moajab Al-Dosari Hall in the Abdulaziz Hussein Cultural Center. Speaking to KUNA, Al-Jaber emphasized that the exhibition reflects the artistic energy and unique perspectives of people with special needs, who continue to express themselves through innovative and meaningful artworks.

“NCCAL remains committed to supporting this segment of society and empowering their participation in cultural and artistic platforms,” Al-Jaber stated. “Their inclusion enriches the cultural landscape and reinforces their position within the wider community.” The exhibition, which runs until Sunday, features a diverse collection of artworks that incorporate various styles and mediums, conveying powerful humanitarian messages of hope, resilience, and connectivity through the universal language of art.

Sarah Aman, Deputy Director General of the Culture and Creativity Center at the Educational Curricula Company, echoed this sentiment. In remarks to KUNA, she noted that the exhibition serves as a platform for integrating individuals with disabilities into society, underlining that true societal progress is achieved through the inclusion of all its members. “People with disabilities are an integral part of our social fabric,” Aman said. “Supporting their creative potential is not only a moral responsibility but a vital contribution to the nation’s cultural and developmental renaissance.”

Nema Al-Banna, coordinator of the Private Art Society’s activities in Kuwait, revealed that more than 20 organizations from Kuwait — including schools, companies, and institutions — are participating in the exhibition. The showcase features over 85 artworks created by individuals with special needs across various age groups, celebrating their talents and reaffirming the value of inclusive artistic expression. — KUNA