Adel Mohammadi

Adel Mohammadi, a seasoned wood artist, brings over a decade of expertise to his craft, driven by a deep passion for transforming wood into exquisite art pieces. Adel collaborates with “Desert Frame and Glass,” enhancing framing capabilities with his woodworking expertise. Notable exhibition highlights include presentations at World Art Dubai 2023 and features in renowned galleries like Desert Gallery, recognized for their artistic innovation.

Akil Ahmad

A dedicated artist, Akil was born in 1988 in Syria. He graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts in Aleo and currently lives in Dubai. He has a summer studio in Mersin, Turkey, His passion for Arabic calligraphy began at a young age and until now he has been developing this skill through philosophical and intellectual means related to the letter’s Arabic and Islamic culture. He has participated in several exhibitions worldwide.

Aladdin Abdeen

Aladdin Abdeen, an award-winning self-taught Jordanian artist, transitioned from a career in business administration to pursue his natural artistic talent. His journey led him to explore traditional Arabic calligraphy, abstract art, and portraiture through painting. Since moving to the UAE in 2014, Aladdin has showcased his work in numerous group exhibitions, aiming to revive Islamic art and culture with a fresh perspective.

Ali Kashwani

Ali Kashwani, a 25-year-old Emirati artist from Sharjah, is a graduate in Design from the American University of Sharjah. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Art History at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, he has participated in over 60 national events and exhibitions since 2012. Collaborating with cultural institutions like Abu Dhabi Culture and Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ali has showcased his talent globally, representing the UAE at WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017 and winning accolades at Emirates Skills 2017 and Dubai Sketch Battle 2019.

Amrita Sethi

Amrita Sethi, a trailblazing NFT and Phygital artist in the UAE, left a successful banking career to pioneer a multimedia art genre called SoundBYTEs(c). Blending technology and storytelling, she explores the fusion of physical and digital realms. Amrita’s collections like The AlphaBYTEs, The CrystalBYTES, and AIBYTEs delve into sound and storytelling, transforming languages and consciousness in art.

Ana Liz Cordero

Ana Liz Cordero’s art is deeply rooted in her Ecuadorian heritage and childhood experiences in the Incan settlements of Azuay and Cañar. She was inspired by the Incan people’s sustainable practices, their respect for nature, and their efficient use of resources. This connection led her to view art as a means of preserving the ecosystem and fostering unity between humans and the environment.

Anna Chekh

Anna Chekh is a multidisciplinary contemporary artist (from Ukraine) with incredible diversity from art on canvas or digital to art with technology, NFT, sculptures and interactive installations. Anna’s style is a blend of contemporary surrealism with expressionism. The artist uses cartoonish characters who play a guiding role in her art. The main one is the Shadow Man, a well-known and popular art hero in UAE.

Asma Belhamar

Asma Belhamar, an eminent Emirati visual artist, explores ‘megastructures’ in the UAE’s changing landscape, transcending artistic boundaries. With a background in textile design and an MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design, she merges design principles seamlessly into her practice, creating captivating fabric and paper installations.

Carmen Olteanu

Carmen Olteanu, born in 1980, is a Romanian artist acclaimed for her profound portraiture work, delving into human psychology and nature. Educated at the National University of Arts in Bucharest, she earned her PhD in Fine Arts and Decorative Arts. Olteanu’s art is a compelling blend of realism and personal vision, reflecting her deep exploration of anthropomorphic forms and human essence.

Casey Lynn Hancock

Casey Lynn Hancock’s artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of passion and determination. Growing up in Chicago, she found solace in art, initially avoiding the challenge of drawing people. However, her journey led her to become a proficient portrait artist.

Chie Nakano

Chie, a contemporary artist born in Japan, unfolds a fascinating journey from her homeland to Spain and ultimately to Dubai, reflecting a captivating intersection of diverse cultures and artistic influences. In Madrid, Chie built a solid foundation in human figures, drawing inspiration from the 19th-century Old Masters, whose contributions were essential in shaping her unique style.

Dany Baghdan

Dany Baghdan’s passion for photography ignited in childhood and was nurtured through his graphic design studies at university. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of life, Baghdan’s art delves into the relationship between chaos and beauty, resonating with Nietzsche’s philosophy. His artistic merit was recognized in the UNDP’s “Go Green” initiative in 2003 and further solidified with his 2023 exhibition at Maissane Design in Abu Dhabi.

Erik Ly

Erik Ly, a California native in the San Gabriel Valley, embodies unyielding passion and dedication to art. Drawing inspiration from cartoons and video games, he pursued his artistic dreams at the Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD). Learning that skill and portfolio trump degrees, he refined his craft through freelance work and networking.

Faris Al Hammadi

Faris Al Hammadi, an accomplished Emirati visual artist born in 1990, has honed his craft in drawing figures and oil painting. His artistic journey has seen him participate in numerous exhibitions and diverse scientific and community events, with notable showcases in countries like Brazil and Greece.

Fats Patrol

In the heart of Dubai, artist Fatspatrol emerges as a unique voice shaped by a multicultural journey from India to Canada. Inspired by the power of blacks, their art signifies rebellion, self-expression, and freedom. Beyond the studio, Fatspatrol pioneered street art in Dubai, leaving a mark on the city’s cultural landscape, including winning the Sheikha Manal Young Artist Award.

Fazel Shams

Fazel Shams, a 42-year-old artist from Iran, embarked on his creative journey seven years ago. Despite graduating in chemistry and lacking formal art training, he found solace in self-expression after facing disappointment. A pivotal moment occurred when he wrote a few lines on his dining table with a whiteboard marker, capturing his struggle and determination. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, where art became his passion and his means of self-expression.

Ghaleb Hawila

Ghaleb Hawila, the Arabic Calligraphy Artist, was born in 1992 in Borj el Chemali, Tyre, south of Lebanon. He studied Graphic Design as an undergraduate and then went on to study the classical art of Arabic calligraphy with acclaimed masters. Fascinated by the endless possibilities of this timeless art, Ghaleb seeks to approach it with a new eye.

Hassan Sharif

Hassan Sharif, born in the UAE on January 1, 1951, is a pioneering force in contemporary art, particularly conceptual art in the Gulf. Based in Dubai, his multifaceted practice includes sculpture, installation, performance, and drawing, challenging artistic norms and redefining expression. Sharif’s influence extends beyond his art; he was a prolific writer, offering insights into his creative process.

Jack Lee

Jack Lee, an award-winning artist residing in Abu Dhabi since 2006, deeply engages with UAE culture. He not only teaches Fine Art but also conducts workshops and lectures at educational institutions, including serving as a private teacher to royal families. As an Emirates Fine Art Society member, Jack has garnered recognition with numerous awards in national and international competitions.

Jamil Boudiab

Jamil Boudiab, a Lebanese artist based in the UAE, creates paintings that capture the essence of everyday life through a dynamic colour palette and symbolic scenes. His style, blending Impressionism with realism, focuses on solitary figures, evoking intimacy and anticipation. Boudiab has exhibited at notable venues like Art3F Brussels, World Art Dubai, and the Carrousel du Louvre Art Fair.

Jyo John Mulloor

Born in Kerala, India, in 1984, Jyo John Mulloor’s artistic journey began with traditional art training in one of Kerala’s premier Fine Arts schools, specializing in Applied Art. Graduating from this foundation, he ventured into the realm of digital art, harnessing technology to express his creativity. Over 18 years in Dubai, Mulloor honed his skills, establishing himself as a digital artist of note.

Khalil Abdul Wahid

Khalil Abdul Wahid embarked on his artistic journey under the mentorship of Hassan Sharif at Al Marsam Al Hur during the 1980s. Inspired by this experience, he dedicated himself to both advancing his art and imparting knowledge to future generations. His commitment to education led him to teaching roles within the atelier and eventually to the position of Director of Fine Arts at Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.

Kristel Bechara

Kristel Bechara, a renowned contemporary visual artist based in Dubai, is known for her innovative use of dynamic patterns and expressive colours. Over a decade in the UAE, she has exhibited her artwork globally, earning recognition in cities like Tokyo, Milano, London, Côte d’Azur, and Brussels. Her work has graced the pages of Forbes Magazine, Esquire, Harper’s Bazaar ART, and Wired.

Luke Adam Hawker

Luke Adam Hawker’s journey transitions from design to full-time artistry, rooted in a deep connection to the world. In 2015, he embraced full-time artistry, capturing the essence of places and people. His book ‘Together’ (2021) explores 2020’s events through compelling visual narratives, becoming a Sunday Times Best Seller, and selling over 130,000 copies.

Mahmood Alabadi

Mahmood Alabadi, born in 1986, embarked on his artistic journey in the UAE at the age of 18, exploring visual arts encompassing Arabic calligraphy, plastic art, sculpture, and design. His creations uniquely blend various artistic schools, highlighting the inherent beauty of Arabic calligraphy, particularly Al-Arabi script, while capturing the cultural essence and heritage of the UAE.

Maisoon Al Saleh

Born in 1988, Emirati multidisciplinary artist, Author, and Founder & CEO of The Paintly Store, Maisoon Al Saleh works actively as an artist in Dubai and internationally. She graduated from Zayed University with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Design in 2010. She has had 9 solo shows and has participated in around 100 art exhibitions in 20 countries.

Manal Stino

Manal Stino, an Egyptian painter, discovered her passion for art at an early age but faced a setback when her work was tragically lost during her teens. She pursued a career in finance after graduating from the American University in Cairo. Years later, at the age of 40, she rekindled her love for painting. Her comeback was met with immediate success when her first painting posted on social media sold quickly, marking the start of her professional painting career in 2019.

Marina Fedorova

Marina Fedorova, born in Leningrad, USSR, in 1981, is a distinguished Russian figurative artist whose captivating works intertwine tradition with modernity. Presently residing and creating in both St. Petersburg and Munich, Fedorova’s artistic journey began with a solid foundation in painting, design, and graphic arts at the renowned Nicholas Roerich Art School in St. Petersburg.

Marwan Shakarchi

Marwan Shakarchi, born in the UK to Iraqi parents, is the artist behind the iconic cloud symbolizing the Myneandyours art movement. After interning with Shepard Fairey in 2009, he settled in Dubai, where his background in Economics and Visual Communication influenced his unique approach to public engagement through art.

Mohammed Fettoo

Fetto, an artist of North African origin, draws inspiration from his educational background in scenography acquired in Cairo. Currently serving as a creative director in Dubai, he brings a rich cultural perspective to his artistic endeavours. His work delves into the intricacies of identity challenges and societal conflicts prevalent in North African and Middle Eastern regions.

Mona Fares

Mona Fares, an artist straddling London and Dubai, channels vibrant emotions into her art. With a passion ignited at age 3, her journey spans exhibitions, murals, and educational ventures. Notably, she’s one of the first graduates from the Tashkeel Art School. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Art & Design (Interior Design major) and a Master’s in Fashion Management, Mona’s art journey spans two decades, gracing the UAE and Europe.

Moosa Al Haylan

Moosa Sultan Al Halyan, born in 1968 in Dubai, UAE, is a distinguished member of the Emirates Fine Arts Society. He has actively contributed to numerous group exhibitions, both within the UAE and internationally, showcasing his artistic talent and dedication. Some notable exhibitions include the 6th GCC Youth Exhibition in Abu Dhabi (1990), the Sharjah Biennial 2nd & 3rd editions (1995, 1997), and participation in exhibitions in Madrid, India, Khartoum, and Bangladesh.

Narjes Noureddin

Narjes, an honoured graduate of Zayed University’s College of Arts, gained global recognition for her Arabic calligraphy in 2000. Notable awards include honours from IRCICA in Istanbul and the Algeria International Cultural Festival. She showcases her talent across mediums at esteemed venues like the Women’s Museum and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.

Natalya Konforti

Natalya Konforti, a French-American artist based in Dubai, channels her fascination with colour, motifs, and textile crafts into her art. With a background spanning a decade in the garment industry, she explores the profound connections between memory, community, and sustainability. Natalya employs a blend of photography, paint, and textiles to convey her artistic vision.

Noura Alserkal

Noura Alserkal, a captivating presence in contemporary art and jewellery design, merges artistic innovation with intellectual depth. Based in Sharjah, her work defies boundaries, weaving intricate narratives that explore personal history, culture, and the interplay of the known and unknown. An alumna of the Royal College of Art, Alserkal earned a Master’s in Jewelry and Metal, receiving the RCA x Swarovski Design Project in 2018.

Olya

Olya, a passionate artist with a degree in performing design/artistry, has been crafting abstract paintings for over 5 years. Her artworks, meticulously created by hand with high-quality materials, have gained global recognition, finding homes in countries like the USA, Australia, and the UAE. With attention to detail and a focus on interior paintings, Olga’s creations bring joy to spaces worldwide.

Orkhan Mammadov

Orkhan Mammadov, the trailblazing media artist from Ganja, Azerbaijan, merges artificial intelligence, cultural heritage, and creativity. Exhibiting at prestigious events like Art Basel and the Venice Biennale, he blurs virtual and real worlds. Through themes of alienation and cultural displacement, he invites viewers to contemplate utopia and dystopia.

Rian Betina

Rián Betina, a talented artist from Argentina, currently based in Rosario, brings a multifaceted skill set to her creative pursuits. With a diverse educational background in Communication, Art, Design, and Architecture, she expresses herself through vibrant paintings, captivating murals, intricate clothing designs, and evocative sculptures.

Rohith Rao

Rohith is a highly skilled fine artist with a career spanning over 18 years in 3D animation, TV commercials, and the event industry. During his time as a 3D Art Director and 3D Generalist, he successfully contributed to more than 500 projects in Dubai. Recently, he relocated to Mysore, India, bringing his extensive expertise to a new canvas.

Sacha Jafri

Sacha Jafri, a British contemporary artist, is renowned for his large-format paintings that seamlessly blend abstraction and representation. His ascent to international acclaim began with the prestigious 2000 British Painters Prize, setting the stage for his remarkable career. Jafri’s art explores themes such as global politics and shared human experiences, with a unique fusion of curation and performance in his practice, exemplified by his 2006 touring exhibition “Jafri Meets Warhol.”

Saggaf Assagaf

Saggaf Alhashmi, born in 1983 in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, is a self-taught artist whose creative vision is dedicated to spreading messages of peace, beauty, and love through his art. His passion for the rich cultural heritage of the UAE, as well as Islamic and Arabic influences, has been a driving force in his artistic journey.

Sandeep Soni

Sandeep Soni, a petroleum engineer by profession, is also an enthusiastic artist and graphic designer. With a diverse educational background, including an MBA and MS in Business Analytics, he combines his love for digital technology with traditional oil painting and acrylic speed painting. Sandeep enjoys creating personalized and affordable art that connects with people’s lives, inspirations, and passions.

Sara Al Hail

Sara Al-Hail, a Qatari artist, embarked on her artistic journey in 2018, transitioning from a background in computer engineering. Her fascination with colours and creative expression led her to venture into the world of art. Drawing on her mathematical precision from engineering, Sara creates symmetrical and accurate artwork.

Sarah Ibrahim

Sarah Ibrahim, a self-taught artist born in Lebanon in 1991 and now based in Dubai, finds inspiration in nature’s beauty, particularly the serene movements of wind in her hometown’s fields. Her unique artistic style, known as “Countless Fingerprints,” reflects her journey and deep connection to her roots.

Shahul Hameed Saludheen

ShahulHameed Saludheen’s art journey began in Palakkad, Kerala, defying his farming background. Self-taught in abstract art, he transitioned from canvases to expansive murals, showcasing bold graphics and vibrant colours. Paragraph 2: Influenced by van Gogh and Degas, ShahulHameed blends tradition with innovation.

Silvia Rosales

Silvia Rosales, an Argentinean-American artist, boasts a 15-year artistic career, transitioning from a bank executive in Villa Maria, Argentina, to the arts and entertainment industry. Her breakthrough came in 2003 with a TV show in Buenos Aires. In 2004, Rosales moved to the U.S., working as a model and actress, including roles with Nickelodeon.

Stephanie Neville

Stephanie Neville, a South African artist based in the UAE since 1999, specializes in textile arts. Her work, deeply personal and confessional, reflects a feminist perspective, exploring themes of diaspora, memory, and sustainability within the UAE’s dynamic environment. Holding a Master of Visual Arts, her creations are an intersection of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary conceptual art.

Sudheer Perinjat

Sudheer Perinjat, known as SudheerArt, is a Dubai-based mural artist with a fine arts degree from India’s Government College of Fine Arts. He gained recognition in 2022 with the Mural Art on Wall prize at the Waterfront Market. His art is a fusion of cultural influences and contemporary aesthetics, deeply connected to the spirit of Dubai.

Sylwia Synak

Sylwia Synak, born in Gdynia, Poland, in 1974, transitioned from graphic design to abstract painting in 2014, inspired by her family’s art background. Her intuitive approach blends natural materials with layered acrylics, creating compositions that reflect personal emotions and nature’s beauty. Painting inspiration from nature, music, and personal experiences, Synak’s art aims to inspire positivity and emotional connection.

Varsha Sureka

Varsha Sureka, a self-taught artist with a Master’s in Human Resources, presents “Wooden Echoes,” a captivating art collection crafted from reclaimed wood. Each piece in her collection embodies a unique tale of transformation, celebrating the innate beauty and imperfections of wood. Varsha’s artistic repertoire spans diverse forms, including Abstract, Resin, Landscape, and Clay work, showcased at prestigious venues such as “Live Limitless” and “Paris-Sorbonne University, Abu Dhabi.”

Wissam Shawkat

Wissam Shawkat, an Award-Winning Calligraphy artist and designer, was born in 1974 in Basra, Iraq. Introduced to Arabic calligraphy at a young age, he embarked on a journey shaped by his early fascination with letterforms. Despite pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering, his passion for calligraphy persisted, leading him to develop his unique style, Al Wissam, which blends traditional scripts with modern design.

Get your copy of the “Artist in Focus 2024” here.