Creativity plays an important role in helping young people build confidence, express their emotions, and discover their sense of identity. In a recent Eye on Education episode on Dubai Eye 103.8, host Zeena Zalamea welcomed Gareth Pyper, Head of Arts at Repton Dubai, and Maria Ava Iacoviello, a Year 13 student at Repton Dubai, to discuss the power of the creative arts and Repton Schools’ annual Art and Design & Technology Exhibition at Alserkal Avenue.

Gareth highlighted how creative subjects provide students with opportunities to experiment, embrace mistakes, and develop resilience and self-belief. He spoke about the art department becoming a supportive environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves and connecting with like-minded peers. He also reflected on the growing opportunities within the creative industries and encouraged parents to keep an open mind about creative career pathways.

Maria shared her personal journey as a young artist, discussing her passion for oil painting, her experience exhibiting her work at Alserkal Avenue, and the confidence that comes from seeing student artwork displayed in a professional gallery setting. She also reflected on her recent acceptance into Parsons School of Design in New York, where she received a merit scholarship, and spoke about her exhibition piece, Fragmented Self, which explores identity through self-portraiture and self-expression.

Together, Gareth and Maria demonstrated how the arts can empower students to find their voice, celebrate their individuality, and approach the future with confidence and ambition. Watch the full interview below.