News DeskDubai, UAE – Bloom World Academy (BWA), the Dubai-based authorised IB school known for leading with firsts, has made history once again — this time in the world of contemporary art. On May 30th, BWA became the first school in the UAE to host an exhibition of original Banksy street artworks, including the UAE debut of ‘Secured’.
Presented alongside student work at the school’s exclusive Art Fair, the exhibition featured three iconic pieces by the elusive British street artist: Running Coppers, Toxic Fuel, and Secured – all owned and curated by Wonderwall Fine Arts.
John Bell, Founding Principal of Bloom World Academy, said: “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.”
Kimberly McMahon, CEO at Wonderwall Fine Arts commented: “We’re proud to collaborate with Bloom World Academy on this special showcase – they’re a school that genuinely values early exposure to meaningful art and ideas. 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.”
Featuring a range of student artwork and design projects from across grade levels, the Art Fair emphasised the power of creativity in holistic education. The remarkable opportunity for students to exhibit their own work alongside one-of-a-kind street pieces by a globally renowned artist resonated strongly with the school’s mission to create intimate, impactful learning experiences that go beyond the traditional classroom.
Bloom World Academy is a school committed to progressive education and embeds the arts into its educational ethos. The school has previously collaborated with institutions such as Jameel Arts Centre and continues to champion opportunities that expose pupils to diverse forms of expression, culture, and creativity.
With its flexible learning pathways, unique later-start approach, and now an exclusive Banksy showcase, Bloom World Academy continues to redefine what it means to be a truly progressive school in the UAE.
