Students from the Japanese School Abu Dhabi have designed a beautiful art installation to uplift and bring good luck to the people of Abu Dhabi, as well as thank the health workers who have helped the city through the pandemic. The “One Thousand Origami Cranes” is also a tribute to the families who have suffered due to COVID-19.
Made of intricately folded out red, green, white or black paper, the 80 compassionate students, who showed impressive emotional maturity and a deep social conscience, created the display of delicate cranes to commemorate the 50th UAE National Day too. Visitors to Abu Dhabi’s up-market boutique Nation Towers Mall have until December 4 to admire the spectacular and inspiring artwork, which can be found on Level 2.
The ancient art of Senba Zuru, or One Thousand Origami Cranes, is said to be extremely powerful, with the crane hailed as a treasured creature that has the power to bring happiness and peace. According to Yukio Miyazaki, the school’s Principal, the craft has gained popularity across the US, Europe and Japan in recent years, and the school wanted to bring its healing powers to the UAE.
As the city emerges from the pandemic and the difficulties of the past year, families and friends viewing the heartfelt display are invited to pause for a moment, reflect on the past few years and consider what they wish to achieve in the future.
“Through this stunning exhibition, we hope to empower our students and show them how their art can have a positive impact on the local community. The origami crane is said to have magical powers, and there’s something about its shape and seeing so many together that brings an instant sense of calm and joy,” Miyazaki said.
The principle, who thanked all the students, teachers and parents involved, added: “'One Thousand Origami Cranes' signifies that Abu Dhabi is flying away from the troubles of the past years and entering a new and peaceful start.” He also encouraged everyone who goes to see the impressive piece of art to take a photo and share it for loved ones to see.
About The Japanese School of Abu Dhabi
Founded in 2009 as part of an educational initiative launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayde Al Nahyan, the Japanese Kindergarten and School of Abu Dhabi is unique in that it is the only overseas Japanese educational institute that accepts students who are not of Japanese descent.
