Hands-On Creativity for Children

Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children presents Bait Al Khazaf, a dedicated space for pottery and ceramics. Designed to inspire young artists, the workshops include pottery-making, painting, and performing arts. Children can shape clay on a wheel, decorate candles, and design costumes while learning from theatre experts. The Centre for Musical Arts leads music sessions, and families can participate in a collaborative mural.

Ceramic Art Exhibition

Curated by Kamal Al Zoubi, Head of the Pottery Department at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, Bait Al Khazaf features works by 55 Emirati and UAE-based ceramicists. Highlights include:

• Communication and Connection by Emirati artist Shamsa Juma, reflecting her search for perfection.
• Ibahar (Sailing) by Abdulla Al Hammadi, inspired by pearl diving.
• Calligraphy Mural by Pakistani artist Adeel Umar.
• Cultural Diffusion by Australian artist Alex Rawson, exploring cross-cultural exchange.
• Oryx the Survivor by Sudanese artist Amani Badur, symbolizing resilience.

The People of Determination Exhibition showcases inspiring works by artists with disabilities, highlighting their creativity and perseverance.

Literature and Visual Arts

Dubai Public Library’s School of Life initiative offers workshops such as:

• Ruq’ah Calligraphy by Mohammed Al Tamimi.
• Doors and Wooden Carvings by Dr Saeed Abdullah Al Wail, exploring Emirati craftsmanship.
• Sikka Folktales by Magdy ElKafrawy, bringing local stories to life on canvas.

Theatre and Folktales

The World Stage Design House (House 203) hosts theatre workshops, including:

• Puppet Workshop by Jacqui George, where children create shadow puppets.
• Lighting Workshop by Youmna Aboelella, teaching stage lighting techniques.
• Costume Design by Salma Lakharouti, using recycled materials.

At Masterpieces House – House of Folklore Tales (House 355), students from the Ministry of Education’s 2024 summer camp present artworks inspired by Kharareef (local folktales), blending tradition with modern creativity.

Festival Partners

The Sikka Art & Design Festival is organized in collaboration with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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Bringing the Past and Present Together Through Art

The Resonance installation, created by graphic designer Maryam Namvar and architect Neda Salmanpour, is an immersive and interactive art piece that invites visitors into a sensory conversation with the past and present of Al Shindagha. Curated by Munira Al Sayegh, the piece comprises three delicately suspended metal panels that move with the wind, reflect shifting light, and echo the rhythms of the creek. The installation draws inspiration from the constant movement of water, trade, architecture, languages, and communities that have long shaped life in this area. The piece’s dynamic nature highlights the cultural evolution of Al Shindagha, incorporating elements of the community’s history, while also adding a contemporary touch.

Promoting Public Art for Community Engagement

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, stressed that public art plays an essential role in the emirate’s cultural ecosystem. He emphasized that the Dubai Public Art Strategy is a platform for artists to draw from Dubai’s rich cultural heritage and express their creative visions. “Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood stands as a witness to the evolution of Dubai into a global city,” said Dr. Bin Kharbash, highlighting the importance of the site in Dubai’s collective memory.

Maryam Namvar and Neda Salmanpour, the artists behind the installation, said, “Al Shindagha serves as a cultural and historical touchstone, and, with our artwork Resonance, we wanted to capture the emotion of being there. We aim to contribute to the ever-evolving culture and context of the city by creating a piece that will evoke thought, emotion, and conversation.”

Continuing Dubai’s Public Art Journey

Resonance is the first in a series of three Dubai Public Art projects, which will continue to bring thought-provoking art into public spaces like the Shindagha Historic District, Al Quoz Creative Zone, and Hatta. This initiative reflects Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and Alserkal Arts Foundation’s ongoing commitment to nurturing artistic excellence among UAE-based artists, fostering deeper connections between the city’s creative community and its people.

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A Fusion of Art, Heritage, and Innovation

This inaugural edition of the symposium features a vibrant mix of more than 15 artists from various countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Egypt, Tunisia, China, Ukraine, and beyond. The participating artists bring unique perspectives and diverse sculpting techniques, creating a global dialogue within the artistic community.

Among the standout works is Emirati artist Dr. Mohammed Yousif‘s sculpture titled Shells, which reflects Dubai’s beauty and essence through the imagery of two mysterious shells. Meanwhile, Azza Al Qubaisi, another Emirati artist, presents Dubai Heart, a dynamic sculpture blending local cultural elements with modern interpretations to symbolize the rapid transformation of the UAE.

Syrian artist Aktham Abdul Hamid showcases Cultural Accumulation, a thought-provoking piece that explores humanity’s historical journey, evolving from ancient experiences to the contemporary age of artificial intelligence. On the other hand, Chinese artist Liu Yang presents Starry Sky in Dubai, which uses light effects to capture the captivating beauty of Dubai’s night skies. Saudi artist Mohammed Al Thagafi’s Conversation represents societal harmony, with its delicate balance of soft and strong elements.

Global Artists Draw Inspiration from Dubai

The symposium also features contributions from artists who have drawn inspiration from Dubai’s rich heritage and modern aspirations. For instance, Romanian sculptor Ana Maria Negara presents Fractal, symbolizing the geometric harmony found in Dubai’s architectural landscape. Georgian artist Jhon Gogaberishvili‘s Fountain metaphorically portrays water droplets as symbols of balance between chaos and beauty. Bulgarian artist Georgi Minchev’s Fragment of Something Bigger examines life’s contrasts through dynamic sculptural forms.

Spanish artist José Millán offers Harmonic Connections, a sculpture that illustrates the concept of unity and the elegance of human relationships through the intertwining of two elements at a central point. Additionally, Ukrainian artist Lyudmyla Mysko, known for her monumental sculptures, showcases Magnetic Designer, a series that harmoniously blends physical forms and spatial voids.

Artists such as Tunisian Mohamed Bouaziz explore themes of life, movement, and environmental preservation, as seen in his sculpture Our Land, while Egyptian artist Said Badr presents City Gate, a piece symbolizing the connection between past, present, and future.

Workshops and Discussions on Art’s Role in Society

The symposium will also feature a series of specialized workshops and panels, which include discussions on sustainable art practices, preserving historical sculptures, and exploring interactive sculpture techniques. These sessions are scheduled for 14 and 21 December and aim to involve both artists and the public in valuable dialogues about how art shapes modern, sustainable societies.

The event will conclude with a special recognition ceremony, honoring the creative contributions of the artists involved. In line with its commitment to promoting global cultural dialogue, Dubai Culture continues to solidify Dubai’s position as a leading hub for art and creativity.

Important note: The symposium is not open to children to ensure a safe and focused environment for all attendees.

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The artwork, officially recognized by Guinness World Records, is part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, which celebrates national milestones such as Flag Day on November 3 and the 53rd Eid Al Etihad on December 2. The piece itself immortalizes a historic photograph of the two leaders, reinforcing their enduring legacy and profound influence in shaping the UAE.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, expressed his pride in the project, stating, “This creative artwork features the images of the late Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, aligning with the #ZayedAndRashid campaign. It embodies the values of the Union, celebrating the pivotal role these leaders played in establishing the UAE and laying the foundations of sustainable development.” He added that the Hatta Dam, a noted tourist attraction, will gain further significance from this art installation, which complements ongoing initiatives like the development of a 250MW pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant—a first for the GCC—illustrating Dubai’s dedication to innovation and sustainability.

The mural is part of the Dubai Street Museum initiative, an ambitious program launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in 2016. This initiative aims to enrich the city’s cultural identity through public art that resonates with Dubai’s history, values, and aspirations. Mona Al Marri, Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, emphasized the importance of such collaborations, saying, “Guided by the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to turn Dubai into an open-air museum, we continue to develop public art initiatives that not only celebrate the UAE’s achievements but also embody our deep pride in the nation’s history and the enduring leadership of our founding fathers.”

Renowned Russian artist Sergey Korbasov spearheaded the project, working alongside a team of over 100 artisans from various parts of the world. Over four months, they meticulously assembled the mosaic, using 1.2 million individual pieces, each measuring 5×5 cm. The choice of materials, sourced locally from the Hatta region, including rocks and soil, lends the piece an intimate connection to its environment. The color palette draws inspiration from the traditional attire of the founding fathers, adding depth and historical context to the piece.

The mural stands as more than just a work of art; it is an immersive experience framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Hajjar mountains and the cascading waterfall. Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, commented, “This mural stands as a testament to the vision of our founding fathers and the bright future they envisioned for generations to come. It also transforms the way we experience Hatta Dam, connecting visitors and locals to the story of the UAE in a meaningful and impactful way.”

This extraordinary tribute is expected to serve as a beacon of cultural pride and an inspiration for both residents and tourists, celebrating the UAE’s rich heritage and aspirations for future generations.

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Organized by Brand Dubai and Dubai Media Office, the Flag Garden aims to inspire patriotism and serve as a reminder of the values instilled by the nation’s founders. Situated against the iconic Dubai coastline, it draws attention for its visual impact and is fast becoming a seasonal attraction, blending culture, art, and national pride. Each flag symbolizes the spirit and legacy of the UAE, where people from various backgrounds can come together in celebration of the nation’s leaders and achievements.

In addition to providing a meaningful experience for visitors, the Flag Garden is also a favored site for photography, capturing both locals and tourists who want to immortalize the moment. It’s part of Dubai’s broader approach to fostering community engagement through public art. For those eager to explore Dubai’s cultural landmarks, The HUNTR’s City Guide app highlights this location, along with other local gems, providing a curated view of what the city has to offer.

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The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial will kick off in November 2024 and will feature a range of installations, sculptures, and art displays across prominent locations in Abu Dhabi. The biennial is designed to foster artistic exploration and inspire creative dialogue within the community, while also showcasing Abu Dhabi as a global cultural hub. Through its diverse art installations and interactive displays, the biennial will offer residents and visitors an immersive experience that merges art with the urban environment.

The initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi’s long-term cultural vision, which includes developing sustainable and community-focused spaces for the arts.

DCT Abu Dhabi explained that this new biennial will serve as a platform for international and local artists to present innovative works, bringing together talents from around the globe. By placing art in public spaces, Abu Dhabi seeks to make artistic engagement accessible, enabling residents and visitors alike to connect with creativity in their everyday surroundings.

As part of its commitment to fostering a thriving cultural ecosystem, the DCT has outlined plans for educational workshops, talks, and interactive sessions to complement the installations. These activities aim to engage a broader audience and inspire future generations of artists in the UAE. “The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial is an invitation to explore the evolving relationship between art, community, and space,” stated a spokesperson from DCT Abu Dhabi. “We want to create opportunities for the public to connect with art beyond the traditional gallery setting.”

The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial also supports the emirate’s growing tourism and cultural sectors. By establishing itself as a destination for innovative public art, Abu Dhabi seeks to attract art lovers and cultural tourists from around the world.

The biennial’s integration into the city’s landscape is expected to have a long-lasting impact, fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts among residents and enhancing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a leader in cultural development.

In addition to fostering international recognition, the biennial provides a platform for Emirati artists to present their work on a global stage, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as a nexus for artistic innovation in the Middle East. The installations will not only add aesthetic value but will serve as landmarks of cultural significance, encouraging viewers to engage with the city in new and meaningful ways.

With the launch of the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, the city continues its mission of positioning itself as a central hub for the arts. This biennial will serve as a celebration of creativity, diversity, and community, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape that is set to leave a lasting legacy in Abu Dhabi’s public spaces.

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Al-Sulaimani’s innovative approach combines classical Arabic script with vibrant graffiti elements. “Calligraffiti is a fusion of Arabic calligraphy and graffiti art,” Al-Sulaimani explained. “While graffiti often uses English letters, I incorporate Arabic calligraphy into graffiti-inspired styles.”

This creative fusion has garnered significant attention, leading to notable projects such as a mural collaboration with Jeddah Municipality.

“This project showcased my ability to integrate Arabic calligraphy into large-scale murals,” he said, which spurred further opportunities, including mural designs in 10 Saudi cities.

A major highlight in his career was designing Arabic signage for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Al-Sulaimani created towering structures adorned with Qur’anic phrases, bringing Arabic script to an international audience. “The towers, some reaching 40 meters, highlighted the diversity of the human experience,” he added.

Beyond public art, Al-Sulaimani has taught Arabic calligraphy at Harvard during workshops for visiting students. “I want to showcase the richness and versatility of the Arabic language,” he noted.

He is also developing a new Arabic font, set to be released later this year, which blends various calligraphic styles to reflect Saudi culture. “This font represents a unique Saudi identity and will be used digitally,” Al-Sulaimani said.

Despite facing challenges, including skepticism from established artists and misconceptions about his work, Al-Sulaimani persists. His calligraffiti is not just art but a means to share the depth of Islamic culture with a global audience.

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Moreover, people celebrate S.H. Sarath for his profound contributions to the art world, a journey spanning over five decades. The upcoming exhibition is more than a mere collection of artworks; it is a profound celebration of creativity, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. The artist’s dedication has earned him accolades and inspired many to appreciate the depth and beauty of art.

Sarath’s work is renowned for its exploration of everyday life and human relationships. His art delves into the subtleties of ordinary experiences, capturing both the visible and intangible aspects of life.

To elaborate, his paintings often reflect environmental themes and personal emotions, thereby making his work resonate on multiple levels with viewers. Sarath’s impressive portfolio includes pieces displayed in prestigious locations such as the United Nations headquarters in Geneva and the University of Victoria in British Columbia.

Indeed, throughout his illustrious career, S.H. Sarath has achieved notable international recognition for his commitment to contemporary themes and his advocacy for fellow artists. His exhibition, “Rekha Sankha – Lines and Shapes,” promises to showcase his unique perspective and artistic vision, continuing his legacy of influential art.

Consequently, the exhibition at the Artist’s Gallery offers an opportunity for art enthusiasts and the general public alike to experience Sarath’s latest creations and immerse themselves in the depth of his artistic exploration. The event will likely draw significant attention, highlighting Sarath’s role in shaping and advancing the art world.

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The artist has created this piece as the ninth in a series that began on August 5, revealing a new animal image each morning.

Previous artworks include depictions of a goat, elephants, monkeys, a wolf, pelicans, a cat, piranhas, and a rhinoceros.

A spokesperson for London Zoo called the new artwork “absolutely brilliant” and assured the public that they would preserve it. Daniel Simmonds, the zoo’s animal operations manager, expressed his excitement, stating, “Banksy has become part of the London scene, and it’s really nice to share his iconic status with, ultimately, one of the most iconic zoos in the entire world. We feel quite honored that he chose to use our front shutters to showcase one of his incredible artworks this morning.

Simmonds further mentioned that the zoo staff were unaware of Banksy’s plans to feature this artwork at their location, adding to the intrigue surrounding the artist’s work. “That’s part of the amazing enigma of Banksy and that’s why it’s so exciting to come in this morning,” he said.

Security guards have stationed themselves around the mural and erected a barrier to protect the artwork. The zoo will keep the shutter closed for the day, using alternative entrances to allow visitors to view the piece. Simmonds noted that additional crowds are expected, with thousands already booked to visit.

“We’ll definitely preserve it,” he confirmed. “We might even look at putting some perspex around it. The last thing we want, with typical London weather and after one of the worst winters ever, is to see this damaged.”

The new piece is set to remain at its current location for the immediate future, though it might be relocated later.

This commitment to preservation follows incidents where vandals partially defaced or removed earlier works in the series. For example, vandals defaced with graffiti a mural in Charlton depicting a rhinoceros on a Nissan Micra shortly after its unveiling. The Royal Borough of Greenwich has expressed disappointment over the vandalism and is considering future measures to protect the artwork.

The series has also lost other pieces to theft or removal, including a satellite dish with a wolf image from Peckham and a billboard with a stretching cat from Cricklewood. Banksy’s team has confirmed that the London Zoo piece is the final work in the series, which has captivated fans and observers throughout the week.

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The $4.2 billion terminal, slated for completion in 2026, will showcase works by established and emerging artists, many with deep ties to New York. The roster includes local talents like Sky Hopinka, Charles Gaines, and the renowned Barbara Kruger.

This initiative significantly expands JFK’s artistic footprint, solidifying its position as the New York airport with the most extensive permanent art collection. This news follows the recent unveiling of new public artworks at LaGuardia Airport in Queens and Newark Liberty International Airport, both spearheaded by the Port Authority.

In 2022, LaGuardia’s Delta Terminal C welcomed six large-scale installations by Rashid Johnson, Aliza Nisenbaum, Ronny Quevedo, and others. These artworks celebrated New York’s vibrant diversity and rich history, echoing a similar theme in Terminal B’s five installations. Newark Airport joined the artistic movement with two monumental works by Layqa Nuna Yawar and Karyn Olivier.

JFK Terminal 6 boasts a dedicated art budget of $22 million, entirely funded by JFK Millennium Partners – a consortium of private developers led by the Vantage Group, responsible for LaGuardia’s artistic transformation. Notably, the budget for Terminal 6’s art program doubles the investment made at LaGuardia.

The Port Authority has once again partnered with the Public Art Fund, the New York-based non-profit that successfully commissioned artworks at LaGuardia and Newark. (The Queens Museum curated the art selection for LaGuardia’s Terminal C.)

Passengers at Terminal 6 can expect a diverse artistic experience. The program features suspended sculptures by Laure Prouvost and Haegue Yang, captivating wall works by Nevin Aladag and Sky Hopinka, and a particularly intriguing series of 10 monumental glass mosaic floor medallions. As per the Port Authority, these medallions aim to evoke a distinct “New York sense of place.” Artists like Shara Hughes, Eddie Martinez, Kambui Olujimi, Candida Alvarez, and Charline von Heyl will contribute to this floor art project.

“Public art that inspires and reflects the spirit of our region is a core element of the Port Authority’s strategy to develop world-class airports that become destinations in their own right,” stated Rick Cotton, the Port Authority’s executive director. “Following the success of LaGuardia and Newark’s Terminal A, the public art program at JFK Terminal 6 will captivate travellers and establish a unique sense of place that embodies the essence of New York.”

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