Dubai: In a special eco-conscious tribute aligned with World Environment Day, a group of talented artists united for a live art experience titled "Wooden Cactus – Rooted in Nature." The initiative, conceptualized by Jesno Jackson, aimed to blend environmental sustainability with artistic storytelling. Organized by Art4you Gallery and hosted at Mehromah Art House, Jumeirah, on 6 June 2025, the project invited artists to reinterpret iconic artworks on uniquely crafted wooden cactus sculptures, each one representing themes of resilience, adaptability, and hope. More than just a creative showcase, the event delivered a strong message about the deep connection between nature, artistic heritage, and the artist’s role in preserving both for future generations.
Each wooden cactus sculpture served as a unique canvas, merging environmental awareness with a tribute to iconic art history. Artists were encouraged to weave in elements inspired by renowned masters, while expressing their own perspectives on today’s climate crisis. The intention wasn’t to replicate the past, but to reinterpret it, breathing new life into classic styles within the modern, symbolic form of a cactus, representing endurance and hope.
Artist Jesno Jackson created a bold and expressive piece inspired by Van Gogh, using swirling strokes and vivid shades of orange and cobalt. Her interpretation subtly referenced Starry Night, while conveying a deeper message about the unpredictable beauty and strength of nature amidst environmental turmoil. Maria Komal Abie drew from Gustav Klimt’s signature golden tones and decorative botanical patterns. Her sculpture radiated with floral designs and sacred spirals, reflecting Klimt’s admiration for nature and the feminine essence. Jaimee Felysse channeled the serene impressionism of Claude Monet, painting her cactus in gentle tones of blue, pink, and violet. The piece resembled a vertical garden or a blooming waterlily pond, exuding a calm, dreamlike atmosphere. In contrast, Sofia Babina embraced the surrealist style of Salvador Dalí, incorporating melting clocks, distorted shapes, and cracked textures. Her work powerfully symbolized the urgency of environmental action, reminding us that time is running out to save our planet.
Mehboobeh Shahnavas created a mesmerizing fusion of Vincent van Gogh’s expressive, colorful landscapes with the intricate, golden elegance of Gustav Klimt. Her sculpture offered a dreamlike portrayal of nature that beautifully blended motion with mysticism. Shakiba Rabiei found inspiration in the works of Maud Lewis and Emily Carr, drawing on their spiritual depictions of trees, forests, and indigenous themes. Her artwork expressed a deep connection to nature, symbolizing upward growth and the powerful life force within natural environments. Parisa Keramati, inspired by Van Gogh’s Starry Night, merged the UAE’s desert landscape with a night sky full of stars. Her sculpture showcased a proud Opuntia cactus in bloom with vivid red flowers, harmonizing the rich natural beauty of the earth with the cosmic brilliance above. Mozhgan Afrisham used layered, textured techniques to communicate deeper themes. Drawing from Van Gogh’s post-impressionist style, she echoed his bold brushstrokes and vibrant greens, reminiscent of his iconic landscape paintings, to portray the expressive beauty of nature.
Zara Bekmurzaeva transformed Van Gogh’s emotionally rich Iris painting into a three-dimensional sculpture, blending his expressive energy with a modern and playful interpretation of his well-known imagery. Viktorija Zujeva added a modernist twist to her work, inspired by Gustav Klimt. She combined Klimt’s flowing swirls and emotional brushstrokes with geometric shapes and vibrant colors, creating a piece full of whimsical elegance and bold visual movement. Parvin Fathi drew from the powerful, energetic brushstrokes of Paul Cézanne, recreating a peaceful countryside scene under a radiant sky. Her artwork expressed a sense of balance and harmony between humans and the natural world. Sophie Bekmurzaeva took inspiration from Austrian symbolist Gustav Klimt, whose landscapes, like Farm Garden with Sunflowers and The Tree of Life, are known for their rich gold tones, floral patterns, and decorative details. Her sculpture reflected Klimt’s love for nature through symbolic, rhythmic, and ornamental designs.
Bhumika Maniyar drew inspiration from Winslow Homer, blending earthy greens and dramatic seascapes to portray nature’s powerful and raw beauty. Her sculpture, painted on both sides, reflects Homer’s rhythmic style and captures the force and unpredictability of the natural world. Asma Syed took a poetic and emotional approach, inspired by Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Claude Monet. She wrapped her cactus sculpture in ocean blues, wave patterns, and coastal imagery, creating a dreamy, romantic effect that gently reminds us to protect marine life. Roya Vahidi captured the vibrant energy of Van Gogh’s swirling skies, using dynamic brushstrokes and rich textures to express the movement and spirit of nature. Shelina Khimji drew from Gustav Klimt’s signature style, ornamental swirls, golden tones, and symbolic patterns. Her work used flowing color spirals to create a sense of natural rhythm and harmony.
Hanieh Hoseini transformed Van Gogh’s iconic floral energy into a personal, botanical expression, blending symbolism and decoration through radiant sunflowers that echoed his famed Sunflowers series. Her piece offered a vibrant tribute to nature’s beauty through expressive form. Maria Aamir reimagined Water Lilies, drawing from Monet’s peaceful garden scenes in Giverny. Her sculpture portrayed the dreamy interplay of sky, light, and plant life, inviting viewers into a calming, meditative state that celebrates nature’s harmony and serenity. Ariella Livshits paid homage to Claude Monet’s Impressionist mastery by capturing the gentle essence of nature. Using flowing purples, soft greens, and tranquil blues, Alzbeta Znamenska portrayed fields of lavender in a soft, atmospheric palette, creating a serene, dreamlike world shaped by light and movement. Running alongside the main showcase was the tranquil “Nature Jewel” watercolor session led by three master artists. Centered around the pomegranate, a symbol of nature’s richness and fragility, this segment emphasized the use of watercolor as a gentle, eco-friendly medium. Here, water became both the artistic tool and a symbolic connector between humanity and the natural world, encouraging thoughtful reflection on environmental interdependence.
At the heart of the initiative was Jesno Jackson, founder and curator of Art4you Gallery. Driven by a mission to fuse art, education, and environmental responsibility, Jesno championed the belief that creativity can influence values and spark meaningful transformation. “This was more than an art event, it was an offering back to the Earth through the act of creation,” Jesno shared. “We weren’t just displaying artwork; we were promoting purpose, connection, and accountability.” Every element of the event was thoughtfully curated, from the use of eco-friendly display materials to collaborations with local green initiatives. The gathering emphasized sustainable partnerships, visual storytelling, and educational engagement to raise awareness about climate issues.
Media coverage by platforms such as The Sustainable Times, DXB News Network, GCC News, DXB24LIVE, CBH Times, She The Leader, Middle East Bulletin, etc...helped amplify the event’s message, reaching a broader audience. Esteemed guests and supporters like Claudia Pinto - Founder The Empowering Woman Middle East, Bhumika Maniyar - Founder The Green Revolution DXB, Peter Farrington - Principal Environment Research Specialist, DECCA, Anna Koterla - Founder Lumeya ESG Solutions, Chandra Goyal and Michelle Mendoza brought further visibility and impact to the cause. As the Official Sustainability Partner, The Green Revolution DXb by Bhumika Maniyar - Sustainability Lead, gifted every guest and participant a potted plant, symbolizing renewal, personal responsibility, and a living connection to the environment. This thoughtful gesture added an organic layer to the celebration, reinforcing the event’s eco-conscious spirit. “As I stand here among these incredible works of art, I am reminded that creativity is one of humanity’s most powerful tools for change,” said Peter Farrington during his speech.
“What we witness today is not just artistic excellence, but a profound message, each wooden cactus, each brushstroke, is a call to action. In a world facing urgent environmental challenges, it is inspiring to see artists stepping forward, not just to express, but to advocate. This initiative by Art4you Gallery, under the visionary leadership of Jesno Jackson supported by the Founder & CEO - Rengi Cherian, beautifully unites sustainability with artistic vision. It reminds us that art can do more than reflect reality, it can shape a better one.”
"SAVE OUR ENVIRONMENT" was a movement. Through this initiative, Art4you Gallery transformed creative expression into a form of ecological activism, reinforcing its ongoing dedication to sustainability in the arts. Held in honor of World Environment Day, the event encouraged everyone to pause, reflect, and rethink how we relate to nature, reminding us that protecting the Earth starts with how we see, feel, and express it through art.