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Bloom World Academy Hosts UAE’s First School-Based Exhibition of Original Banksy Street Artworks

by Anwesha Sengupta
Students interacting with original Banksy pieces at Bloom World Academy’s school-based street art exhibition.

BWA becomes the first school in the country to showcase original Banksy street artworks in collaboration with Wonderwall Fine Arts

Bloom World Academy (BWA) has made national headlines by becoming the first school in the UAE to host an exhibition of original Banksy street artworks, marking a bold new chapter in art-integrated education. Held on 30 May 2025 at the school’s campus in Dubai, the exhibition was part of BWA’s exclusive Art Fair and featured three iconic works by the British street artist.

Bloom World Academy students observing Banksy's 'Running Coppers' artwork at the school’s art fair.
Bloom World Academy students observing Banksy’s ‘Running Coppers’ artwork at the school’s art fair.

The showcase included Running Coppers, Toxic Fuel, and the UAE debut of Secured — all curated and owned by Wonderwall Fine Arts. Notably, these globally recognised pieces were displayed alongside artwork created by BWA students, creating a dynamic dialogue between professional and student expression.

A Cultural First in UAE Schools

This marks the first time a UAE school has hosted a collection of original Banksy street artworks, offering students and families a rare opportunity to engage directly with provocative, world-class art within an academic setting.

Banksy artwork titled 'Secured' displayed on a wooden surface, highlighting social commentary on migrant workers.
Banksy artwork titled ‘Secured’ displayed on a wooden surface, highlighting social commentary on migrant workers.

John Bell, Founding Principal of Bloom World Academy, shared:

“At BWA, we encourage students to explore, question and create. This collaboration wasn’t just about viewing thought-provoking art – it was about dialogue, reflection, critical thinking and giving our students and their families a front-row seat to culture that challenges and inspires.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Creative Thinkers

Wonderwall Fine Arts CEO Kimberly McMahon added:

“We’re proud to collaborate with Bloom World Academy on this special showcase. Our goal wasn’t just to display original Banksy street artworks, but to place them where they could spark imagination and conversation. Giving young people access to work that’s bold, witty and thought-provoking felt like the right way to make art matter – and perhaps even plant the seed for the next great Banksy.”

The Art Fair also featured a diverse range of student-led projects spanning visual arts, design, and mixed media, reinforcing the school’s commitment to holistic, creativity-led education. The opportunity to exhibit student work alongside globally renowned pieces reflected Bloom World Academy’s dedication to immersive and meaningful learning experiences.

A Progressive Approach to Learning

Known for its later start times and flexible curriculum, Bloom World Academy continues to redefine what it means to be a forward-thinking school in the UAE. Previous collaborations with institutions such as Jameel Arts Centre further highlight BWA’s focus on exposing students to culture, creativity, and real-world expression.

About Bloom World Academy 

Bloom World Academy (BWA) is an authorized International Baccalaureate World School for students aged 18 months to 18 years old. As a creative, family first school they believe that education should be dynamic, creative and constantly evolving. BWA dares to do things differently and has brought several firsts to the region, including flexible timings around a later start of 9am, and a highly customised educational offering. Their state-of-the-art campus is located in the heart of Dubai in Al Barsha South. BWA is the first own-brand school of leading school provider in the UAE, Bloom Education.    

Bloom World Academy is now accepting admissions for the current academic year, with limited places available in certain year groups, as well as for 2025/26.

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