As the vibrant energy of summer gives way to the gentle embrace of autumn, we invite you to join us in celebrating our planet and the harmonious relationship we can create with it. The Fall 2023 Program, titled Earthly Joys, explores the profound connection between humanity and nature, the actions that nurture this relationship, and the vision of a future where our planet is not just a resource but a cherished collaborator.

Curated, designed, and organized by participants in the 421 Internship and Mentorship Program, Ahmad Al Bissani, Salmah Almansoori, Sarrah Bashir, Keertana Cherukuri, Dana Husseino, Zeina Saleh, led by Public Program Coordinators Aya Afaneh and Nada Al Mosa, the Fall 2023 program coincides with COP28, presenting a youth-led approach that fosters a deep connection with the environment. Earthly Joys is an opportunity for children, youth, and young adults to become advocates for our planet.

The Fall 2023 program promises a diverse range of workshops, talks, and special events that empower and educate through collaborations with UAE-based and homegrown artists, creatives, artisans, researchers, academics, and initiatives. The program features interactive environmentally-conscious workshops, guided nature walks, insightful talks and discussions with environmental experts, craft-based experiments that explore local materials, a film festival focused on climate-related works, home-cooking sessions, and other special events designed to preserve and celebrate our planet. 

Running in tandem with the Fall 2023 program are two major exhibitions featuring the work of emerging and established artists from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. The exhibitions, Asma Belhamar: Solid Void and Nine Nodes for Non-Being, curated by Ritika Biswas, focus on the environment from two different perspectives: the history of the UAE’s built environment and philosophical approaches to ways of existing more equitably within the ongoing crisis. 

Earthly Joys is an invitation to connect, learn, and contribute to a brighter, more equitable future. Together, we can create a world where joy is synonymous with harmony in nature.