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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Welcoming over 60 artists from 28 nationalities, the ceremony was more than a mere awards presentation; it was a celebration of creativity, diversity, and collaboration within the art world. Attendees included artists, curators, cultural leaders, and professionals, making the evening a global gathering that reaffirmed the UAE’s role as a beacon of cultural unity.

The festivities commenced with a red-carpet reception that set the tone for an evening filled with engaging performances and interactive discussions. Guests were treated to a rich program spotlighting art forms such as painting, sculpture, photography, digital arts, music, and cultural heritage. This blend of disciplines showcased the dynamic nature of the UAE’s creative landscape.

The awards celebrated both established and emerging talents, including well-respected names such as Vera Zhukova, Ritta Shoufan, Joy Najm, and Andrew Scanlan. Artists such as Noura Al Khyeli, Mouza Al Darmaki, and Moosa Al Halyan were among those recognized for their trailblazing work that pushed the boundaries of their respective mediums. The applause of the audience echoed the admiration for these visionaries who continually elevate art.

In addition to visual and performance art, the awards extended their reach to figures in the cultural sector, highlighting influential individuals like Abeer Abdullah, Harjyot Oberoi, and Honey Bhaskaran. These awardees were acknowledged for their transformative roles in fostering intercultural understanding through various platforms including music, literature, media, and film.

The pinnacle of the evening was the announcement of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards, which celebrated the legacy of three iconic Emirati artists: Abdul Qader Al Rais, Khalil Abdulwahid, and Dr. Mohamed Yousif. Their profound influence on the art world resonated throughout the crowd, eliciting an ovation that underscored their significance to the UAE’s creative heritage.

The event was graced by prominent VIPs and cultural ambassadors such as Yaqoob Al Ali and Ahmed Al Mahmoud, whose presence reaffirmed the importance of art in the UAE’s socio-cultural fabric. Figures like Stefano Iorini and Bernadette “Cha” Eslais added their voices, emphasizing their commitment to cultural development.

Supported by partners such as Renad Events, Art Point, and Blooming Blossoms, the awards showcased how community collaboration drives the arts forward. These partnerships ensured that the event’s ambition was matched by its execution, setting an impressive standard for future celebrations.

Art4You Gallery’s co-founders, Jesno Jackson and Rengi Cherian, shared their vision for the future. “Through the Artistic Luminary Awards, Art4You Gallery demonstrates its unwavering commitment to fostering artistic expression, supporting cultural dialogue, and nurturing emerging talent on a global scale,” stated Jackson. Cherian added, “As we celebrate our 9th anniversary this year, this award embodies our commitment to honour creativity that resonates beyond the canvas, beyond the stage, and into the hearts of all those who encounter it.”

A participant shared, “The Artistic Luminary Awards have set a new standard for art and culture events in the region, and with this inaugural success, Art4You Gallery should continue its mission to spotlight the brilliance and transformative potential of art.”

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This exhibition features the works of 17 Saudi artists spanning multiple generations and artistic styles. The pieces, ranging from paintings to installations and video art, represent the vibrancy and diversity of Saudi creativity today. Some of the prominent artists featured include Sara Abuabdallah, Ghada Al-Hassan, Ayman Yossri Daydban, Ahmed Mater, Ayman Zedani, and Nasser Al-Salem, among others.

The “Art of the Kingdom” exhibition will eventually make its way to Riyadh in early 2025, where it will be showcased at the Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art in the JAX district. Later in the year, it will travel to the National Museum of China in Beijing.

Mona Khazindar, advisor at the Ministry of Culture, shared in a written statement to Arab News: “The exhibition is a testament to the profound impact that art has on our understanding of history, culture, and community. It not only honors our country’s past and collective memory, but also demonstrates the dynamic role art plays in connecting us to our shared identity, inspiring creativity and dialogue for generations to come.”

The exhibition’s curator, Diana Wechsler, emphasized the importance of exhibitions in expanding horizons and offering audiences new perspectives.

She explained, “Every exhibition must open new horizons for its audience, offering an experience of discovery and challenging habitual thinking. Exhibitions, to me, are also experiences of knowledge. This is especially important here, as this exhibition is the first to showcase a group of contemporary Saudi artists abroad.”

Wechsler handpicked Nasser Al-Salem’s striking “Arabi/Gharbi” (“Arab/Foreigner”) to open and close the exhibition. The large neon Arabic script in the piece serves as both a question and a clue, symbolizing the cultural divide between the contemporary Saudi experience and that of the international audience. “Through each piece, the exhibition unfolds like a revelation — a poetic illumination — exploring various facets of a captivating culture where past and present, tradition and transformation, are interwoven,” said Wechsler.

Muhannad Shono, one of the featured artists, reflected on Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the global art scene, saying: “As Saudi Arabia now invests in its arts and cultural expression, and strives to invite the world in, it’s important that this cultural dialogue does not flow in one direction, but to also reach outwards in an honest and equal exchange of ideas with the world. My role is to continue to express and imagine, not only in my country but beyond its borders … bypassing the perceived lines that separate us and divide.”

The exhibition also features a collaborative piece by artists Sara Abuabdallah and Ghada Al-Hassan, who are a mother-daughter duo. Their work, “Horizontal Dimensions,” explores themes of intergenerational complicity, urban transformation, and shared dreams. They see this exhibition as an opportunity to contribute to the global conversation about cultural exchange and the evolving narratives of their region.

The “Art of the Kingdom” exhibition is more than just a showcase of art; it is a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing effort to place itself at the forefront of global cultural exchange. The show’s impact is set to extend far beyond Rio, fostering greater international dialogue and appreciation of Saudi art and culture.

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Organized in collaboration with Urbanist Art Gallery, the exhibition opened on October 10 and will run for six weeks, allowing guests to enjoy fine French cuisine while being surrounded by Salim’s introspective creations. “The intimate setting of the restaurant allows attendees to explore contemporary art, gain insights into his work, and enjoy a moment where art and gastronomy converge,” said Catabelle.

A Deep Dive into Human Emotion

Fahad Salim, a self-taught artist with a modern and contemporary focus, uses bold colors and patterns to depict human emotions, desires, and internal conflicts. His artwork is a reflection of his life’s journeys, joys, frustrations, and challenges. “Art has always been with me since my childhood, and creates a bond with my roots,” Salim shared. His paintings, full of vibrant hues, explore the depths of human experience, offering a powerful visual dialogue that complements the restaurant’s ambiance.

A Holistic Aesthetic Experience

La Cantine du Faubourg has long been a hotspot for combining art, music, images, and food, creating an environment where each visit feels like a cultural adventure. Curator Catabelle believes the exhibition presents a chance to merge the world of art with gourmet experiences. “In such spaces, the conversation between the visual and culinary arts deepens, providing visitors with a holistic aesthetic experience,” she said.

Diners can indulge in Mediterranean-inspired dishes while immersing themselves in Salim’s captivating artwork, as La Cantine continues its tradition of art-inspired menus. Salim’s artwork influences the culinary experience, adding a visual dimension to the meals served, creating a multisensory journey that merges taste and sight.

The Growing Trend of Art and Fine Dining

In recent years, art and fine dining have intertwined globally, blending visual masterpieces with culinary arts to create unique, immersive experiences. “The colours and textures on a canvas echo the flavours and sensations on a plate,” said Catabelle, noting that the trend is flourishing. Every dish becomes a visual masterpiece, meticulously arranged, much like an artist’s carefully curated work. This innovative intersection between art and food has given rise to movements like The Art of Plating, where chefs design their dishes to resemble artwork.

Magpie, a leading observer of Dubai’s cultural scene, commented on the exhibition, stating that ‘The Sin Within’ highlights how art can transform pain into beauty, and trauma into joy. “Bold colours suspend and transcend traumatic events, turning them into something bright and joyful,” Magpie noted.

A Sensory Journey

La Cantine du Faubourg offers not just a meal but an artistic experience where diners can feast on both visual and culinary delights, surrounded by panoramic views of Dubai. As Catabelle summed up, “Dining in these settings becomes more than just a meal; it is an extension of the art, a multisensory journey through sight, taste, and ambiance.”

In conclusion, as the relationship between art and fine dining continues to evolve, restaurants like La Cantine du Faubourg lead the charge in offering unforgettable experiences. The fusion of these two creative forms allows for endless possibilities in innovation, turning dining and art into an unforgettable celebration of the senses.

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The exhibition is notable for its inclusion of artwork from the Soviet era, a time when many Lithuanian artists were unable to freely express themselves due to censorship. These previously unseen works, created between the 1960s and 1990s, have now been donated to the Centre Pompidou by MO Museum founders, Danguolė and Viktoras Butkus. Among the artists featured are Marija Teresė Rožanskaitė, Kazimiera Zimblytė, and Vincas Kisarauskas—figures whose work is finally receiving the recognition it deserves.

“For decades, Lithuanian artists were silenced by Soviet occupation, their bold and innovative works hidden behind the Iron Curtain. The international recognition of these remarkable artists is more than an enrichment of European art history—it is a powerful act of cultural reparation. By incorporating these extraordinary works, we are restoring Lithuania’s rightful place in the history of Western European art,” said Milda Ivanauskienė, director of the MO Museum.

The exhibition also highlights contemporary Lithuanian artists such as Eglė Rakauskaitė, Andrius Arutiunian, and Pakui Hardware, whose works engage with themes of identity, collective memory, and global issues. These artists have garnered international acclaim for their fresh perspectives and unique approaches, further solidifying Lithuania’s place on the world stage of modern art.

Lithuania’s journey toward independence in 1990 catalyzed a flourishing of new artistic movements, including conceptual and feminist art, that continue to influence the country’s creative landscape. These contributions have had a lasting impact, as reflected in the diversity of the works presented in this exhibition.

The show, supported by the Lithuanian Season in France 2024, runs from September 14, 2024, to January 6, 2025, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the artistic evolution of a nation long underrepresented in the broader narrative of European art history.

Since its inception in 1977, the Centre Pompidou has stood at the intersection of art, culture, and innovation, with its iconic building serving as a hub for exhibitions, workshops, festivals, and symposia. This exhibition is yet another testament to its mission to make art accessible to a global audience, welcoming over 3 million visitors annually.

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For the first time, artists have an expanded opportunity to showcase their work over a longer period, making this year’s event even more significant for established and emerging artists alike. DIFC Art Nights will once again transform the financial district into a vibrant artistic landscape, with the extended format offering a diverse array of visual arts, murals, photography, sculpture, design, and interactive workshops.

“The 20th anniversary is a major milestone for DIFC, and we are excited to celebrate this moment by giving artists an extended platform to share their creative visions,” a spokesperson for DIFC said.

Artists from across the globe are invited to submit their portfolios, complete with high-quality images, brief artist profiles, and details about each submission, to artnights@difc.ae by the October 15 deadline. DIFC promises a selection of the most exceptional works to be showcased during the event, offering a chance for both up-and-coming and established talents to connect with art lovers and the public.

This year’s Art Nights will feature a broad spectrum of categories, including painting, sculpture, photography, design, mixed media, and more, alongside engaging panel discussions and music performances. Full guidelines for submission are available on the DIFC website.

With its immersive experiences and diverse range of artistic talent, the extended Art Nights promises to be a highlight of Dubai’s cultural calendar this November.

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The quinquennial, scheduled to occur every five years, captures pivotal moments in the GCC’s art scene since 2019. It will showcase a diverse range of works, including paintings, videos, installations, and sculptures, reflecting the unique cultural and environmental attributes of the region.

Running until December 8, the exhibition not only highlights contemporary artistic practices but also commemorates the Art Gallery’s 10th anniversary.

Since its opening in 2014, the NYUAD Art Gallery has become a vital cultural venue on Saadiyat Island, elevating NYUAD’s status as a cultural beacon. It has played a crucial role in presenting both emerging and established artists and fostering a rich, international cultural dialogue.

“Between the Tides: A Gulf Quinquennial” is co-curated by Maya Allison, Executive Director of the NYUAD Art Gallery, and Duygu Demir, Art Gallery Curator and Research Assistant Professor. Their curatorial approach was shaped through extensive discussions with regional artists and curators, including Abdullah Al Mutairi, Ali Ismail Karimi, Aseel AlYaqoub, and Ayman Zedani. Instead of offering a comprehensive survey, this exhibition highlights key moments in the visual arts over the past five years.

Artists featured in the exhibition include Alia Ahmad, Abdulrahim Alkendi, Mohammad AlFaraj, Noor Al-Fayez, and many others, with collaborative works by Civil Architecture, Aseel AlYaqoub, Asaiel Al Saeed, Saphiya Abu Al-Maati, Yousef Awaad Hussein, Camille Zakharia, and Ali Ismail Karimi.

Maya Allison reflected on the gallery’s milestone and the quinquennial’s significance: “In the first decade of the NYUAD Art Gallery and Project Space, alongside our own development as a cultural institution, we have seen a proliferation of artists—thanks in part to the support of new initiatives across the Gulf—who are producing complex, nuanced, and provocative work, alongside their more seasoned peers. Expanded beyond a national arts landscape, this exhibition brings together and makes visible a larger shared ecosystem. A distinct chapter has opened in the region, and on the global stage.”

Duygu Demir added: “The title of the first iteration, ‘Between the Tides,’ reflects the Gulf’s deep connection to lunar rhythms and a sense of time shaped by natural patterns. The exhibition showcases a wide variety of artistic styles, from emerging voices to well-known figures, and explores important themes like urban growth, environmental change, heritage, identity, and representation. During the research phase of this show, our conversations with the curatorial interlocutors, as well as the exchanges with the artists, were immensely educational.”

Over the past decade, the gallery has featured a diverse array of exhibitions, alternating between global artists and explorations of Gulf art and history. Noteworthy past shows include “But We Cannot See Them” (2017), “Speculative Landscapes” (2019), and “Khaleej Modern” (2022), which have all contributed to its reputation as a leading cultural institution.

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Application Process and Deadline

Dubai Culture invites all Emirati and UAE & GCC-based artists, creatives and designers to participate in the festival with their diverse works in visual arts, painting, sculpture, photography, design, murals, multimedia, culinary art and more. The festival will also feature interactive workshops, musical and cinematic performances, talks and panel discussions that enrich the local cultural movement and support the global art sector’s trends.

Submission Guidelines and Requirements

Dubai Culture will begin accepting applications on 8 August, with the deadline set for 8 October. A committee of experts and artists will then review the submissions and select the works eligible for the festival under the Sikka Platform. The open call invites established and emerging artists in the UAE and GCC, whether individually or in groups. Participants must present unique ideas that reflect their perspectives and the richness of the local art scene, use environmentally friendly materials, and ensure that their works are original, recent, and not previously displayed at other festivals or events. Creatives interested in participating can find all details and access the application form on the Authority’s website.

Through the Sikka Art & Design Festival, Dubai Culture not only aims to provide an innovative platform that brings together various types of arts but also celebrates both leading and emerging talent, including young artists from or residing in the UAE and the GCC. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s cultural vision to make the emirate a global center for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.

Previous Festival Success and Participation

The 12^th edition of the festival successfully attracted over 162,000 visitors who viewed the collection of works that adorned the houses of Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood. Visitors engaged with the artistic and entertainment performances, workshops, and discussion sessions held throughout the 10-day festival. The event also saw the participation of over 500 Emirati and UAE & GCC-based artists who showcased around 300 different artworks in multiple forms across 14 houses.

To be part of the 13^th Sikka Art & Design Festival 2025, visit https://dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/events/Sikka-25-Open-Call 

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Faitakis’ journey into art began with a passion for graffiti during his teenage years, which later evolved into a more formal exploration of visual arts. He studied at the Athens School of Fine Arts, where he honed his skills and developed his signature style. His early works were deeply influenced by the aesthetics of street art, but he gradually incorporated elements of Byzantine art, such as gold leaf and religious iconography, into his creations. This blend of old and new has become a hallmark of his work, allowing him to stand out in the crowded field of contemporary art.

One of Faitakis’ most notable projects is his participation in the 2011 Venice Biennale, where he created a monumental mural that garnered international acclaim. The piece, titled “The History of Pain,” is a powerful commentary on social and political issues, rendered in a style reminiscent of medieval frescoes. His ability to convey complex narratives through visually striking imagery has made him a sought-after artist for public and private commissions.

In addition to his large-scale murals, Faitakis’ work includes smaller paintings, drawings, and prints, all of which reflect his ongoing and deepening exploration of cultural and historical themes. His art is visually captivating and intellectually engaging, prompting viewers to reflect on the intersections of history, culture, and contemporary life.

Stelios Faitakis continues to live and work in Athens, where he remains an influential figure in the art community. His innovative approach to blending traditional techniques with modern themes has not only made his work resonate with a wide audience in Greece and internationally but has also significantly influenced the contemporary art scene.

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Since the early 1990s, Elkin has graced galleries, juried group shows, and solo exhibitions across North America with her mesmerizing works. Her art has transcended geographical boundaries, resonating with viewers from all walks of life. In addition to her exhibitions, Elkin’s work has been featured in prestigious publications, further cementing her reputation as a leading figure in the art world.

Among her notable achievements, Elkin’s painting was chosen for the poster of The Association of Canadian Women Composers in Chamber Music Festival in 2002, earning her personal recognition from the Governor General of Canada, Adrienne Clarkson. Additionally, her artwork has been showcased in prominent magazines such as West of the City and Ottawa Life, further elevating her profile as an artist of distinction.

Elkin’s lifelong dedication to the visual arts is exemplified by her membership in esteemed organizations such as the Society of Canadian Artists and the Ontario Society of Artists. These affiliations not only attest to her talent and expertise but also highlight her commitment to fostering artistic excellence and collaboration within the creative community.

Beyond her accolades and accomplishments, Elkin’s impact on the art world is perhaps most profoundly felt through the collections that house her paintings. From the MBA from Ottawa University to the Government of Ontario Art Collection, her works adorn prestigious institutions and private collections alike, serving as timeless testaments to her artistic vision and mastery.

As Elizabeth Elkin continues to create, her artistry serves as a source of inspiration and delight for art enthusiasts around the globe. With each brushstroke, she invites viewers into a world of vibrant colours and emotive expression, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of contemporary art. Through her unwavering dedication and boundless creativity, Elkin’s legacy as a pioneering artist is destined to endure for generations to come.

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