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.

The post ‘Bait Al Khazaf’ Showcases Pottery and Art at Sikka Festival appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Kazan Makhlouf’s research draws on her time spent in Abu Dhabi as part of the Emirates Foundation’s cultural program from 2007 to 2011 and her PhD work in the UK, which examined the contrast between traditional Emirati practices and modern cultural forms.

“There’s been a lot written about how the critical eye in the UAE differs from that in the West,” Kazan Makhlouf says. “But more than that, there needs to be a different language. In the UAE, often when people talk about art history, they assume there’s only one art history, and it’s contemporary.”

Exploring the UAE’s Artistic Roots

Kazan Makhlouf’s study sets itself apart by placing Emirati crafts, poetry, and cultural practices at the forefront of what would later evolve into contemporary art. The book covers everything from henna art and talli embroidery to Nabati poetry, including a poem written by UAE Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Through personal anecdotes and carefully researched case studies, she highlights the everyday cultural elements that have influenced visual art in the UAE. For instance, a diagram in the book contrasts how Emiratis from Dubai and Fujairah fold their ghutra, offering a sartorial glimpse into the country’s diverse traditions.

Calligraphy is another prominent subject in the book. Kazan Makhlouf emphasizes how cultural forms such as calligraphy play a significant role in daily life, often more than visual art. She cites Mohammed Mandi, whose calligraphy graces the UAE’s currency, as an example of how tradition permeates the country’s art scene.

“There is a general misconception that art in the UAE started with Hassan Sharif,” Kazan Makhlouf points out. “But it was way before that. Personally, I started at Islamic art, and that was the context I began from.”

The Evolution of Contemporary Art

While the book emphasizes tradition, it also chronicles the rise of contemporary art in the UAE, particularly through the work of Ebtisam Abdulaziz, Mohammed Kazem, and Hassan Sharif, who introduced a conceptual shift to the country’s artistic landscape. The narrative follows the development of the UAE’s contemporary art ecosystem and highlights the increasing global recognition of Emirati artists.

In examining these modern artists, Kazan Makhlouf doesn’t shy away from discussing the tension between tradition and globalization. She explores the work of Abdul Qader Al Rais, the first UAE artist to incorporate European techniques, and how his art reflects the disappearing landscapes and traditions of a pre-industrial UAE. Other artists, such as Afra Al Dhaheri and Lamya Gargash, continue this dialogue with installations and projects that reflect both local heritage and the challenges of modern life.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Kazan Makhlouf’s final chapter tackles the question of what it means to maintain an Emirati identity in a rapidly globalizing world. Drawing on the work of anthropologists and art historians, she highlights the UAE’s unique position, where wealth and tradition coexist with openness to global influences.

“This book has affected the way that I consider art as a historian. I’m much more aware of the importance of tradition, the importance of religion, and the importance of national and spiritual context,” she reflects. “But at the same time – and this is where the example of the UAE is so important – it’s really interesting to look at how open people are to change.”

In this exploration of Emirati identity, Kazan Makhlouf’s book offers readers a comprehensive view of the UAE’s artistic heritage, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of culture, tradition, and modernity.

The post New Book Chronicles the Evolution of Emirati Identity Through Art appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

The initiative, held under the ‘Dubai Calligraphy Biennale,’ is open to individuals aged 13 and above, including students, employees, and anyone interested in the art of Arabic calligraphy.

Around 16 specialized workshops will cover a range of calligraphic styles such as Thuluth, Naskh, Diwani Jali, Ruq’ah, and Ijazah.

Attendees at the Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children will be guided through mastering letter formation, composition, and design. Additionally, participants will dive into the art of ornamentation, learning techniques in gilding, material use, and decorative design.

Complementing these workshops, Etihad Museum will host an exclusive lecture on October 8 for the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai staff. Titled ‘The Art of Arabic Calligraphy: Symbolism, Structure, and Aesthetic,’ this lecture will be led by artist and researcher Zaid Ahmed Amin Al Azami, a well-known expert in Arabic calligraphy. The session will introduce GDRFA employees to various styles of calligraphy, offering insight into their characteristics and underlying philosophy. Al Azami will also demonstrate how to craft traditional calligraphy tools, such as reeds and inks, while highlighting the cultural significance of calligraphy and its role in enriching global art.

The workshops and lectures aim to enhance artistic appreciation and elevate the cultural presence of Arabic calligraphy on the international stage.

The workshops are designed to foster both technical skills and creativity, offering participants hands-on experience with traditional tools and materials. The initiative also aims to strengthen cultural awareness and inspire a new generation of artists, further integrating Arabic calligraphy into Dubai’s artistic landscape.

The post Dubai Culture Showcases Calligraphy at Al Jalila appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Curated by Martina Koppel Yang, the exhibition explores how both Arab and Chinese cultures elevate calligraphy beyond a mere means of communication, viewing it as a spiritual and cultural practice. Additionally, gardens in both cultures are seen as spaces of contemplation and beauty, deeply connected to the natural and spiritual world.

Ibrahim Al-Sanousi, acting CEO of the Museums Commission, explained the significance of the museum as a space for rotating exhibitions. “We aim to integrate contemporary art into everyday life,” he stated. He also highlighted that this exhibition marks the beginning of a series of collaborations with different countries, fostering international dialogue. “This exhibition, focused on Chinese artists, is the beginning of a series of collaborations with countries worldwide, aimed at fostering cross-cultural dialogue and international exchange,” Al-Sanousi added.

Several featured artists spoke about their work and its connection to both cultures. Dexi Tian discussed how he incorporates elements of Saudi culture into his creations by reusing discarded objects found during his explorations of the city and desert. “I reassemble these objects into new creations that reflect this culture,” Tian noted.

Wang Du, a Chinese artist residing in France, explained the concept behind his sculpture, which is made from crumpled newspapers.

“It symbolizes how we consume news and information in our modern world,” he said. Wang emphasized the fleeting nature of news consumption, reflecting on how quickly we discard information after consuming it. “This piece serves as a monument to that short-lived nature of news,” he explained.

The exhibition delves into the intersection between calligraphy and the natural world, with gardens symbolizing creation and community in both cultures. The event also offers a forward-looking perspective, highlighting the synergy between past traditions and future possibilities.

The scenography, designed by Studio GGSV, enhances the visitor experience by guiding them through stages that reflect various themes, such as presence and absence, memory and imagination. Alongside works from the Donnersberg Collection and the Dslcollection, the exhibition also features site-specific pieces created in Saudi Arabia.

Notable artists such as French-Algerian Adel Abdessemed and Taiwanese Michael Lin are exhibiting in Saudi Arabia for the first time, further enriching the cultural dialogue presented in the exhibition.

Running until January 18, 2025, the exhibition offers a glimpse into the ongoing evolution of contemporary art, bridging cultural gaps and laying the groundwork for future artistic exchanges.

The post Chinese Art Exhibition Explores Parallels at Saudi Museum appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Seb Lester’s portfolio reads like a who’s who of iconic brands and institutions. His artistic prowess has been sought after by an impressive array of clients, including NASA, Apple, Nike, Intel, Montblanc, and The New York Times. His contribution to the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics is a testament to his versatility and ability to adapt his skills to large-scale, high-profile projects. Lester’s work is not confined to commercial endeavours; his passion for letterforms is evident in every stroke of his pen, whether he’s crafting a logo for a global brand or creating a piece of personal artwork.

Lester’s journey in typography is equally illustrious. As a former Senior Type Designer at Monotype, he has been instrumental in developing custom typefaces that have become integral to the visual identities of numerous brands. Among these are British Airways, Intel, Waitrose, The Daily Telegraph, and H&M. His retail typefaces, including Neo Sans, Neo Tech, Soho, and Scene, showcase his ability to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, making them staples in the design community.

What sets Seb Lester apart is his deep reverence for the Latin alphabet. He often describes it as “one of our most beautiful and profound creations,” a sentiment that is evident in his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to infuse modern design with traditional elegance. His calligraphy videos have garnered millions of views on social media, captivating audiences with the fluidity and precision of his technique. Each piece he creates is a testament to his dedication to preserving the beauty of hand-drawn letterforms in an increasingly digital world.

Lester’s exploration of Heraldic Art represents his commitment to continuous learning and artistic evolution. This study not only enriches his existing body of work but also opens new avenues for integrating historical elements into contemporary design. His ability to draw inspiration from the past while creating innovative solutions for the present is a hallmark of his career.

Living and working in the picturesque town of Lewes, England, Seb Lester embodies the spirit of an artist dedicated to his craft. His work transcends mere functionality, elevating typography and calligraphy to an art form that inspires and captivates. For those who appreciate the power of beautifully crafted letterforms, Lester’s creations are a source of endless fascination and admiration.

Seb Lester’s commitment to the artistry of hand-drawn letters serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring beauty and significance of traditional craftsmanship. Whether through his commercial projects or personal artistic pursuits, Lester continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of design.

The post Seb Lester: Master Calligrapher and Typeface Virtuoso appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Salvatore Ferragamo, the renowned Italian luxury brand, is synonymous with sophistication and timeless style. Established in 1927, the house has continuously pushed the boundaries of fashion, blending tradition with innovation. Central to its brand identity is its iconic logo, a symbol that reflects the brand’s heritage and artistic vision.

At first glance, the Salvatore Ferragamo logo appears as a simple, yet striking arrangement of letters. However, a closer inspection reveals the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that embodies the essence of the brand. The logo is a harmonious fusion of calligraphic strokes, gracefully intertwining to form the name “Ferragamo.” Each letter is meticulously crafted, exuding a sense of fluidity and elegance reminiscent of a master calligrapher’s hand.

The design of the Salvatore Ferragamo logo is a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence and craftsmanship. Every curve and serif is carefully considered, creating a visual symphony that resonates with the brand’s aesthetic. The letterforms are rendered with precision, evoking a sense of refinement and sophistication that is synonymous with Ferragamo’s creations.

One of the most notable aspects of the Ferragamo logo is its versatility. Whether embossed on leather goods, engraved on metal hardware, or printed on the packaging, the logo retains its distinctive charm and elegance. Its timeless design allows it to seamlessly integrate into various contexts, serving as a beacon of luxury and style.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Salvatore Ferragamo logo carries a deeper significance. It encapsulates the brand’s rich heritage and storied legacy, paying homage to its founder’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. The calligraphic elements evoke a sense of tradition and artistry, while also signaling the brand’s forward-thinking approach to design.

The Salvatore Ferragamo logo stands as a testament to the enduring power of design and craftsmanship. Its graceful calligraphic strokes and timeless elegance encapsulate the essence of the brand, serving as a symbol of sophistication and luxury. As Ferragamo continues to inspire and innovate, its iconic logo remains a beacon of style and excellence in the world of fashion.

The post Salvatore Ferragamo: A Calligraphic Logo in Fashion appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

At the age of 16, James embarked on a journey to refine his handwriting through the art of calligraphy. What began as a simple hobby soon burgeoned into an all-consuming passion for the creative process. His innate drive led him to a profound connection with the art form, setting the stage for his artistic evolution.

With a degree in graphic design under his belt, James ventured into the world of full-time artistic pursuit. His initial foray into the professional landscape found him as a commercial lettering artist, a role that allowed him to refine his creative style while immersing himself in the world of visual communication. As he honed his craft, he found himself drawn to the power of video content, recognizing its potential to not only entertain but also educate and inspire.

James seamlessly amalgamated his artistic flair, social media acumen, and traditional craftsmanship to create a unique and captivating creative style. This fusion laid the foundation for his artistic identity, which he continues to shape and refine.

In a testament to his unwavering dedication and skill, James has garnered a global following of over 5 million individuals through platforms like Instagram and TikTok. His engaging videos have collectively amassed a staggering 1 billion views, a testament to his ability to captivate and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Beyond the digital realm, James Lewis’s impact is felt through his physical presence. His art finds expression in exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations with renowned brands. He has channeled his creativity into a plethora of projects, from video content creation and public speaking engagements to live mural painting and product development.

James Lewis embodies the spirit of a modern artist, seamlessly navigating the intersection of tradition and innovation. Through his artistry, he extends an invitation to explore the boundaries of creativity, embracing the fluidity of artistic expression in an ever-evolving landscape.

The post James Lewis: Bridging Artistry Through Calligraphy, Graphic Design, and Video Content appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Born in Basra in 1974, Wissam Shawkat’s journey as an artist began with a profound connection to the Arabic alphabet. During the Iraq-Iran war, amidst the chaos and bombings, he found solace in writing and repeating calligraphic letters on dusty tiles. Encouraged by his supportive parents, Shawkat became self-taught, embarking on a path that would shape his life and artistic expression.

While pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering at Basra University, Wissam Shawkat realized that his true calling lay in the realm of calligraphy. His summers were spent honing his skills at a local sign shop, laying the foundation for his artistic endeavours. The rigid rules and structure of calligraphy fascinated him, but he yearned to break free and explore new possibilities. In recent years, Shawkat has gained recognition for his innovative calligraphic style, Al Wissam. This distinctive approach combines elements from various traditional scripts, such as Sunbuli, Jali Diwani, Eastern Kufic, and Thuluth, infusing them with a contemporary design aesthetic. His work is a testament to his constant desire to challenge conventions and push the boundaries of Arabic calligraphy. Shawkat is often described as a rule-breaker, a label he humbly acknowledges but doesn’t readily apply to himself. Yet, his artistry undeniably defies traditional norms. Even in his creative process, he blends traditional tools and materials with a modern aesthetic, using handmade paper reed pens and traditional inks to create works that provoke us to reconsider the essence and possibilities of Arabic calligraphy. This characteristic, known as Calligraformic, aligns perfectly with Shawkat’s artistic vision, positioning him on the periphery of tradition and opening doors to new interpretations. As a calligrapher turned conceptually motivated artist, Shawkat embarked on a path of self-discovery within the confines of a rigid and rule-based medium. Through years of devoted study of traditional scripts, compositions, and forms, he gained the necessary expertise to discern which principles could be challenged and reimagined, and which should remain intact. Shawkat’s artistic exploration goes beyond the literal meanings of Arabic letters, delving into their graphic value and visual impact. He deconstructs and rearranges elements, such as cutting off the sharp tail of a ‘ha’ and experimenting with angles and serializations using pen or brush. The resulting forms transcend their original context, evoking a sense of monumentality that transcends the boundaries of the Arab world. His artistic influences range from old Turkish masters to movements like Bauhaus, Geometric Abstraction, Futurism, Cubism, and even the collages of Cecil Touchon. With his latest body of work, Shawkat introduces the term “Calligraform” to describe his style and approach. It encompasses his focus on the forms of the letters, their inner and outer spaces, and their graphic qualities. Through the meticulous exploration of calligraphic characters’ precise shapes, Shawkat merges them with his unique artistic vision, bridging the gap between the known and the unfamiliar.

Wissam Shawkat’s artistic journey represents a revolutionary approach to Arabic calligraphy. He challenges the established norms, reimagining the art form in ways that are both disorienting and captivating. By emphasizing the forms, spaces, and graphic qualities of Arabic letters, he expands the boundaries of calligraphy, drawing inspiration from diverse artistic movements and influences. Shawkat’s Calligraformic creations invite us to see Arabic calligraphy through a new lens, evoking a sense of awe and appreciation for the beauty and versatility.

The post Wissam Shawkat and his Revolutionary Journey in Arabic Calligraphy with Calligraformic appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

One of Nasernia’s distinguishing features is his ability to seamlessly blend traditional Persian influences with contemporary artistic approaches. Drawing inspiration from Persian classical and modern calligraphy, he skillfully incorporates elements of traditional Persian painting and iconography into his artworks. However, Nasernia goes beyond mere replication and instead infuses his creations with abstraction and ambiguity, creating captivating compositions that captivate viewers with their tension and depth. Through his artistic exploration, Nasernia delves into symbolism, aesthetics, and cultural narratives, offering a multi-layered visual experience that stimulates introspection and contemplation. Nasernia’s artistic journey has taken him to various exhibitions, both solo and group, held in prestigious art galleries in Dubai and Tehran, including the highly regarded Seyhoun Art Gallery. Through his regional solo exhibitions, Nasernia has had the opportunity to showcase his distinctive artistic vision and engage with a diverse audience, captivating art enthusiasts with his thought-provoking creations. Additionally, his participation in international group exhibitions has broadened his artistic reach and contributed to the global art scene, allowing him to connect with artists and art enthusiasts from different cultures and backgrounds. An aspect that sets Nasernia apart is his keen interest in exploring the intersection between traditional and contemporary art forms. By merging traditional Persian techniques with modern approaches, he pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, encouraging viewers to contemplate the evolving nature of cultural heritage. Nasernia’s artistic endeavours serve as a personal exploration of his own identity and heritage while also contributing to the ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation within the art world. Nasernia’s participation in biennales further underscores his significance in the contemporary art landscape. These international platforms provide him with the opportunity to showcase his artistic vision on a global scale, fostering cross-cultural exchange and enriching the artistic discourse. Through his participation in such esteemed events, Nasernia not only elevates the visibility of Persian art but also contributes to the broader narrative of contemporary artistic practices, bridging gaps and fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.

With his multidisciplinary approach and thoughtful exploration of themes, Sasan Nasernia has firmly established himself as a noteworthy artist within the regional and international art scene. His ability to seamlessly integrate traditional and modern elements in his work, coupled with his participation in numerous exhibitions and biennales, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to artistic innovation and cultural preservation. Nasernia’s artistic journey serves as an inspiration to fellow artists and art enthusiasts alike, encouraging them to embrace the vast potential of artistic expression and to continue exploring the rich tapestry of cultural heritage.

The post Sasan Nasernia: Blending Tradition and Innovation in Contemporary Art appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

As Leo honed his skills in calligraphy, he simultaneously embarked on an exploration of a more liberated art style, one that transcended the rigidity of hand lettering. By deconstructing letter forms and embracing abstraction and spontaneity, he began creating paintings that seamlessly merged his fascination with spontaneous mark-making, dance, and lyricism.

Leo’s artistic process is grounded in his calligraphic foundations, employing techniques and materials rooted in this discipline. However, his focus has shifted to the point where the quality of illegibility becomes integral to the accessibility and impact of his artwork. By stirring intuition rather than literation, Leo’s art engages viewers on a deeper level, inviting them to connect with the essence of his creations.

In his latest series of brush stroke paintings, Leo Shallat delves into the meditative state of creation. His artwork serves as a vehicle for both himself and the viewer to be fully present in the moment, fostering a sense of mindfulness and introspection. Through his brush strokes, Leo captures the essence of the creative process and invites viewers to embrace the power of the present moment.

Leo Shallat’s artistic journey exemplifies the evolution of an artist who fearlessly explores new paths and techniques. By integrating his calligraphic foundations with abstraction and spontaneity, he creates art that goes beyond mere legibility and invites a deeper, intuitive connection. Through his paintings, Leo creates a space for contemplation, reflection, and an immersive experience of the present.

The post Leo Shallat: Exploring the Essence of Art through Abstraction and Calligraphic Foundations appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.