#INTERVIEW: A Family Journey Through Art at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Delna Mistry Anand: Let’s start with the “Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances” exhibition, and how Post-Impressionist art can be particularly meaningful for families, including children and adults?

Maral Jule Bedoyan: “Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances” presents iconic masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, Georges Seurat, and other Post-Impressionist pioneers. The exhibition is on show till 9 February 2025. Post-Impressionist art is rich in emotion, colour, and creativity, making it universally appealing. The diversity of the artworks allows families to engage on multiple levels, whether through visual storytelling, expressive brushstrokes, or symbolic themes. Our Children’s Path and resources are designed to create special moments where parents and children bond over shared discoveries, sparking intergenerational conversations about creativity and artistic expression.

This festive season, Louvre Abu Dhabi has truly become a haven for families, especially those with young children, offering a space where creativity is both sparked and nurtured. How does the team create such an engaging and interactive environment for families to connect with art and inspire young minds?

Creativity is at the core of our educational philosophy. We encourage artistic exploration through dynamic activities that include play, storytelling, and challenges. The education team offers monthly family activities; Family Weekends are a big hit. Held on the last weekend of every month, different focus dynamic and thematic family workshops are offered around the exhibitions and the main galleries. In the main galleries, children can explore artworks via location-based games, Secret of the Dome Stars. The Children’s Museum is a dedicated place to explore and experience art together through gamified stations, questions and play around the theme Picturing the Cosmos.

Beyond fostering artistic expression, these initiatives aim to develop essential life skills like critical thinking, communication, and confidence, ensuring a holistic learning experience for young visitors.

Could you share details about the interactive workshops or hands-on activities related to the exhibition?

Our workshops and activities are designed to foster curiosity and engagement. For example, the Children’s Path within the exhibition provides child-friendly labels, guiding families through the artworks with questions and prompts that spark conversations. We also offer Young Visitors Guides, which include creative prompts and fun facts to encourage discussions about the art, ensuring families leave with a deeper connection to the exhibition and to each other.

Please tell us more about The Secret of the Dome Stars and how it enhances the family experience?
The Secret of the Dome Stars is an immersive, location-based game designed to captivate families with children aged 6 to 12. Guided by Volpi, a friendly Sand Fox, participants embark on a treasure hunt to collect 12 stars hidden throughout the galleries, solving puzzles and uncovering clues. The game sharpens observation skills, promotes learning through play, and creates unforgettable memories for families. Available in Arabic, English, and French, it’s free to play and ensures a seamless experience without requiring app downloads.

• Date: July 2024 onwards

• Timing: Flexible, during museum hours

• Format: WebApp accessible via personal devices

• Duration: 45-60 minutes

Game Highlights:

• Interactive Gameplay: Players explore the museum, solve puzzles, and interact with artworks through discovery.

• Engaging Storyline: The game's narrative involves restoring the Dome's energy by finding hidden stars within the museum.

• Educational Experience: Enhances observation skills and encourages learning through play.

For more information, visit https://domestars.louvreabudhabi.ae/