Art thou green?

Having heard how electricity consumption, plastic rings and plastic bags affect the environment, I have become irritated by guilt-trip inducing campaigns.

I do my part; I try to avoid plastic bags and using extra electricity, yet despite what campaigns tell me, I know there is only so much I can do for the environment when I live in a world powered by non-renewable resources.

That is why the concept behind this year's Art Oasis intrigues me. Titled A Green Vision, the exhibition provides a platform for artists in the region to explore their relationship to the environment and sustainability.

A Green Vision, which will be showcased at Eye of Hours in Wafi from July 9 to 15, will feature a range of art including traditional decorative works, paintings, installations, videos, sculptures and jewellery. tabloid! spoke to curator Beth Carruthers to find out more about the exhibition.

Exactly what is A Green Vision?

A green vision is both a vision for an ecologically diverse and sustainable world, and a way of seeing, or envisioning, through a green lens. The exhibition is about looking at the ways in which cultures interact with the environment, and reassessing living patterns and eco-friendliness.

In terms of environmental consciousness what can art really do?

Though people often think that art is ineffective in effecting change, art is often used as a medium to express cultural ideas.

There are a lot of artists who work with engineers to create developments, such as natural water purification systems that are also public parks.

I have a colleague who created a sculptural fountain that only works during the rain; the fountain draws attention to scarce water resources as it acts as a reminder of where water comes from.

Can you give us a few examples of what a visitor should expect to see?

There is a sculpture that is created by Elizabeth Monoian and Robert Ferry that if placed in a park, through solar energy, would be able to generate 20 per cent of the power used.

There is also an installation by Abdul Rahim Salim which consists of a mountain of car tires brought in from the desert which is likely to bring to mind responsibility for our individual and cultural choices.

How fitting is this exhibition to life in the UAE?

The exhibition is specifically relevant to the world we live in, especially in Dubai, as it questions our relationship with the environment in a way that directly involves the viewer.

A chance to prove the creative genius within

Until the July 18, from 11am to 1pm children can come to Mercato for artistic guidance from artist Rupali Roa.

From pastel sketching, air painting, clay modelling, group painting and Dancing Fingers - painting to the beat of music - there is something for every little artist. On completion, your children's artwork will on public display on big canvases placed on easels.

At the end of the Art Fiesta, kids can claim their masterpieces.