Skill-building and Personal Development

The programme will focus on professional growth, game design, programming, and creativity through a wide range of sessions. Participants can look forward to short courses on strategy development, Arabic calligraphy, Emirati dialect, and healthy nutrition tips. These workshops aim to empower individuals to develop talents and gain knowledge in diverse fields, especially for those visiting the Dubai Public Libraries.

Educational Sessions for School Students

As part of the ‘Space and Innovation’ theme, three special sessions have been designed for school students. At Al Safa Art & Design Library, the workshop ‘Mechanism of Astronomical Observation’ will introduce children to mapping stars, planets, and creating a 3D map of the galaxy using real data. ‘Game Development’ at Al Twar Library will guide kids through the basics of game design, programming principles, and coding concepts. Meanwhile, ‘Vertical Farming’ at Al Mankhool Library will offer a hands-on introduction to sustainable agriculture.

Workshops at the 13th Sikka Art and Design Festival

The 13th Sikka Art & Design Festival, held in the Al Shindagha Historic District from January 31 to February 9, will feature two additional sessions. Dr. Saeed Abdullah Al Wayel will lead a session on ‘Doors and Wooden Carvings,’ where participants can learn the traditional art of wooden door carving and explore Emirati heritage. Additionally, Ola Allouz will guide visitors through ‘Sikka Art & Design Festival: The Best Moments’, focusing on photography and how to transform everyday moments into artistic shots.

Health and Wellness Activities

The Al Safa Art & Design Library will also host wellness-focused workshops under its Wellness and Nutrition Club. Participants can enjoy a ladies-only Pilates class to improve strength and flexibility, followed by a ‘Making Healthy Dairy Products’ workshop led by Nada Saeed Kattan, teaching attendees how to prepare labneh and cheese using fresh, natural ingredients.

The library’s Art Club will offer sessions such as ‘Texture in Acrylic Painting’ by Benedicte Gimonnet, which uses acrylic mediums and basic printing techniques to create unique surfaces. ‘Drawing Characters in Traditional Art’ by Abeer Al Edani will explore character drawing inspired by cultural identities. Medaf Creative Studio will also conduct ‘Art 101: Design Your Umbrella’ and ‘Art 101: Lobster in Watercolour’ workshops.

At Al Mankhool Library, the Chess Academy will hold a series of activities, including ‘Chess Etiquette & Principles’ for kids aged six and above, focusing on respect and sportsmanship. The library will also offer ‘Effective Chess Strategies’ and a ‘Chess Hackathon’ to challenge participants with strategic and tactical thinking.

The Calligraphy Club at Al Mankhool Library will feature workshops on the Baybayin script, allowing participants to create personalized t-shirts and tote bags with this ancient script. Mohammad Altamimi will also offer workshops on Ruq’ah Calligraphy, both at Al Safa Art & Design Library and during the Sikka Art & Design Festival.

The Career Club, part of the Creative Track, will host a series of events at Al Mankhool Library and LinkedIn HQ to empower participants with skills such as creative thinking, problem-solving, persuasive communication, and networking. The STEM Club’s Impact Track will focus on scientific research and sustainable solutions, preparing participants to use AI in creating solutions for global challenges and competing in international STEM competitions.

The School of Life programme is an exceptional opportunity for the community to explore space, innovation, and creativity, offering workshops that foster personal growth, professional skills, and sustainability awareness. This series of events contributes to Dubai’s goal of providing lifelong learning and enhancing the quality of life for all.

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Murals Capturing Tradition, Identity, and Modernity

Among the 13 striking murals, notable works include:

• ‘A Heritage of Night’ by Eman Alrashdi, merging Emirati identity with a Van Gogh-inspired night sky.
• ‘Child’s Play’ by Perryhan El-Ashmawi, portraying childhood joy and creativity.
• ‘Rooted Connections’ by Karim Jabbari, blending Arabic calligraphy and poetry.
• ‘Dream Big’ by Noé Peiró, symbolizing Dubai’s rise from a fishing village to a global city.

Other murals explore urban life, nature, and cultural heritage, showcasing the depth of talent from regional and international artists.

Innovative Sculptures and Installations

Over 40+ installations redefine the landscape, including:

• ‘Shells’ by Dr Mohamed Yousif, depicting Dubai’s coastal history through stone carving.
• ‘Dubai Heart’ by Azza Al Qubaisi, exploring the UAE’s traditions and identity.
• ‘Starry Sky in Dubai’ by Liu Yang, a dynamic light sculpture inspired by celestial movements.
• ‘Moon’ by Mohamed Sahnoun, a calligraphy-adorned marble piece that shifts between full and crescent moon perspectives.

Interactive and Sustainable Art

Artworks like ‘Make-A-Friend’ by Hend Almurid, an installation allowing visitors to build their own sculptures, and ‘Renewal’ by Studio Thirteen X Nordic Homeworx, made from recycled wood, highlight the festival’s focus on community engagement and sustainability.

A Collaborative Effort

The festival is supported by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, and Dubai Civil Defence, ensuring a well-curated cultural experience.

With immersive art, heritage-inspired creations, and futuristic installations, Sikka 2025 cements Dubai’s position as a thriving hub for artistic innovation and cultural storytelling.

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“I would find Arabic ones but they were expensive or the designs would be super cliché,” said Raghad. “So, that was the starting point, and because stickers are also the easiest form of artwork – it’s very simple.”

Thus, Waggish was created, a venture initiated by Raghad and three friends. Four years later, the growth of this small, homegrown business—fuelled by passion, pop culture, and the strength of female camaraderie—has been a remarkable success.

I first crossed paths with Raghad in January 2023. Since then, her friends have embarked on their own journeys, but Raghad remains steadfast in her mission to harness the full potential of her creative and commercial endeavours.

What does that evolution entail?

“The first two years were just really like building a library of designs and then we would produce them on everything – so, shirts and totes and mugs,” explains Raghad. “Now I’ve decided to take Waggish to its full potential by not just doing the stickers but do more original products, more collaborations with other brands.”

Raghad’s vibrant creations, characterized by bright colours, bold lines, and catchy slogans, stem from her artistic flair for digital design. Each original print is meticulously crafted by hand, featuring witty Arabic and English phrases that resonate with today’s internet culture. It’s a delightful way to celebrate life or make a statement, drawing people in.

In its ongoing transformation, Waggish has evolved beyond a simple sticker shop to a comprehensive creative brand. With its distinctive illustration style, it infuses everyday life with flair, finesse, and an abundance of personality.

“When Subway reached out, I was in complete shock,” recalls Raghad, reflecting on her favourite collaborations. “Now it’s an international brand that is collaborating with Waggish – that one was the biggest one when it came. After that, it was Rimmel London. TikTok Business was really big too and Shahid from MBC.”

For Raghad, stickers are more than just decorative items; they represent personal expression. They can visually convey strong opinions on various subjects, which is why Waggish embraces this aspect wholeheartedly.

“Stickers, at their essence, are a visual expression of who you are. The way that you put stickers on your laptop or your iPad, they tell stories about your hobbies, what you stand for, stuff you like.”

“I think because Waggish was born in the UAE, has all those Middle Eastern people following it and it’s like an Arab brand, we need to have a voice to share and promote that. It’s not like a political approach, but more like an awareness approach, more of like lets open this conversation – it doesn’t have to be scary to talk about those things.”

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Originally starting with beading, her journey expanded to pottery, driven by a desire to create a space where women could relax and connect with art. “When I worked with beads, I felt: Wow! So I thought I must learn another craft,” Al-Malki explains. That excitement led her to pottery and inspired the opening of the studio.

Terracotta Studio offers pottery workshops where women can create cups, plates, and other items, as well as paint their creations. “Painting itself is an art,” she says, emphasizing the holistic experience of creativity.

The response has exceeded her expectations, with many participants reporting improved relaxation and even better sleep. “Some people contact me later and say: ‘Ghada, I truly felt like I had the best sleep in a long time; I feel much more relaxed.’ That feeling wipes away all the exhaustion at the end of the day,” Al-Malki shared.

However, running the studio is not without challenges. “The biggest issue we face is real estate. Rental prices are high and raw materials are not available in Saudi Arabia, so they are expensive for us,” she notes. Despite these hurdles, she aims to expand the studio, especially to include activities for children.

Terracotta Studio also showcases student works through exhibitions, giving participants a platform to celebrate their creativity.

The post Women-Only Pottery Workshops in Riyadh Offer Creative Escape appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Promod, an Indian expatriate who passed away two years ago, and a group of friends, initially came together in Satwa. These individuals, despite their commercial careers, shared a profound passion for art, which they had to set aside due to practical demands.

Vineeth, the guild’s secretary, explained: “The group has now expanded to include around 25 artists, each with a significant connection to art. Whether they are celebrated artists or enthusiastic amateurs, they unite through this Guild to pursue their artistic passions.”

Under the guidance of distinguished artists like K.K.N. Nambiar, Vineeth has participated in numerous group exhibitions, specializing in oil on canvas and continually evolving his personal style.

“Many of us had to shelve our artistic inclinations in favor of commercial careers. To reconnect with our creativity, we organized regular meetups on Fridays or other free days to paint and promote art,” Vineeth added.

Since its inception, the Guild has been active in hosting painting exhibitions, workshops, and discussions across Dubai and Sharjah. These events offer artists a platform to display and sell their work.

Key figures in the Guild include Kumar Chadayamangalam (current president), Uday Russelpuram, Ramesh Vellinezhi, Shafi Beypore, Narayan Kadavath, art director Nisar Ibrahim, and Sadasivan Ambalamedu. These members balance their professional lives with their artistic pursuits, ensuring they dedicate time to their passion.

The Guild conducts workshops in community parks to bridge the gap between artists and the public. “Our workshops aim to clarify fundamental questions about art, such as the nature of abstract art, making it more accessible to everyone,” Vineeth explained.

Their latest initiative involved a workshop with underprivileged children, where they created a unique art installation and shared inspiring stories of artists.

The Guild also supports its members and the community in challenging times. Following the Kerala floods, they organized a fundraiser, creating and selling art to contribute to relief efforts.

The Guild’s members hold a shared belief that art transcends barriers, offering a universal connection and understanding that few other things can.

The post UAE Art Guild Promotes Creativity and Humanity Through Art appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

The Young Prodigy Behind the Portrait

The young artist, whose name has quickly become synonymous with innovative artistry, hails from India. Despite his young age, he has demonstrated a remarkable talent for creating intricate portraits using an unconventional medium: Rubik’s Cubes. All the way from Kerala, Krishnaneel Anil decided to put his creative mind to work and he came up with using rubik’s cubes as a medium for this portrait. This latest piece, depicting Sheikh Hamdan, has brought him into the spotlight, showcasing his ability to merge art with puzzle-solving skills.

Creating Art with Rubik’s Cubes

Using Rubik’s Cubes to create art is no small feat. Each cube must be meticulously manipulated to display the correct color pattern, and then positioned accurately to contribute to the larger image. This process requires not only artistic vision but also mathematical precision and a deep understanding of color theory.

For this portrait, the young artist used hundreds of Rubik’s Cubes, each turned to just the right configuration. The result is a stunning mosaic that captures the likeness of Sheikh Hamdan with incredible detail and accuracy. This method of art creation, known as cubing art or Rubik’s Cube mosaic art, is gaining popularity due to its unique approach and visually striking results.

Inspiration and Motivation

The Indian kid’s inspiration for choosing Sheikh Hamdan as his subject likely stems from the Crown Prince’s dynamic and inspirational persona. Known for his love of sports, adventure, and social media presence, Sheikh Hamdan is a figure admired by many, including young talents around the world. By creating a portrait of Sheikh Hamdan, the artist not only honors a prominent leader but also connects with a wider audience who hold the Crown Prince in high regard.

The Impact of the Portrait

This Rubik’s Cube portrait of Sheikh Hamdan has not only showcased the Indian kid’s incredible skill but also highlighted the potential of using everyday objects in innovative ways. It serves as an inspiration to other young artists and creators, demonstrating that with imagination and dedication, even the most common items can be transformed into extraordinary works of art.

By turning a classic puzzle into a canvas, this Indian kid has not only honored a great leader but also inspired others to think outside the box and explore their own creative potentials.

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Amelia Dubai Unveils Retro-Futuristic Cocktail Menu

Launching on June 5^th, Amelia Dubai’s new cocktail menu invites guests to indulge in a unique experience. This cocktail menu is curated with creativity and passion. The menu showcases a diverse range of libations that promise to captivate the senses and elevate the drinking experience.

Embracing a theme of retro-futuristic revelry, Amelia’s cocktail menu is a testament to the artistry and skill of its mixologists. Drawing inspiration from a steampunk aesthetic, each cocktail is meticulously crafted with attention to detail. Importantly, it is offering guests a taste of unparalleled excellence and originality.

Amelia’s New Cocktail Menu: A Blend of Innovation and Artistry

Featuring a selection of 24 handcrafted cocktails and four enticing mocktails, Amelia’s menu is a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of Amelia’s mixologists.  Guests can savor a variety of drinks, from reinvented classics to exclusive signature creations. Each drink on the new menu is narrating a story of craftsmanship and unparalleled flavours.

Notably, among the menu highlights is the “Queen of the Atlantic,” a modern twist on the traditional martini infused with oceanic flavors. This drink is prepared using clay pot curing technique. For those seeking a harmonious blend of elegance and nature, the “Forest Aged Vieux Carre” presents a unique fusion of Remy Martin VSOP, Michter’s Bourbon, and Mancino Vermouth aged in a forest-infused barrel.

Additionally, the “Blossom Blush” cocktail delights with its delicate combination of Bombay Premier Cru Gin, rhubarb, strawberry cordial, elderflower, and citrus, topped with tonic for a refreshing finish. In fact, each cocktail at Amelia Dubai promises a sensory adventure.

A Toast to Innovation

The new cocktail menu does not stop at alcoholic drinks; the selection of mocktails offers guests all the pioneering refinement and flavor of their alcoholic counterparts. Among them is the Marmalade Spritzer and the Tropical Island, both promising guests an unforgettable experience.

Beverage Manager, Alain Achkar, said, “Amelia’s vision was to introduce a cocktail menu that features a diverse range of flavors and experiences for our guests. With this in mind, we wanted to ensure guests enjoy bespoke drinks. These drinks will transport them on an unique and unforgettable journey of taste and discovery. Significantly, our new cocktail menu celebrates creativity and craftsmanship, where every sip is an invitation to experience the extraordinary.”

Undoubtedly, Amelia Dubai’s new cocktail menu promises to elevate guests’ drinking experiences with exceptional drinks crafted with almost chemical precision. 

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Umińska’s artistic career started with a deep understanding of its historical background. Equipped with a Polish degree in art history and enhanced by a Master’s degree in Advanced Studies in art history from the University of Barcelona, she devoted herself to the theoretical investigation of art, finding inspiration in the works of the great artists of history. However, it was her natural desire for artistic expression that ultimately inspired her to leave the academic setting and pursue a career as an artist.

The turning point was when Kasia Umińska set out on a radical artistic journey in 2016 and sought direct instruction from well-known modern artists. Her artistic development was accelerated by this all-encompassing experience, which encouraged her to experiment with novel methods and viewpoints. She adopted charcoal and graphite as her main media and set out to meticulously capture the spirit of reality, adding a feeling of mystery and fascination to every brushstroke.

Umińska’s unique style of figurative realism, in which the lines between the actual and the imaginary blend together to create an enthralling illusionistic tapestry, is what distinguishes her work. She creates images with such skill and attention to detail that they appear to float beyond the boundaries of the canvas, luring viewers into a world where fantasy and reality collide.

Kasia Umińska sums up her artistic philosophy thusly: “I think the artist’s imagination fills his works with creativity and turns them into unique and mysterious creations.” She sees art as a gateway to other realms where the bounds of possibility are pushed to the absolute, rather than just a representation of reality.

One finds a symphony of contrasts in Umińska’s creations: the commonplace and the sublime, the tangible and the ethereal, and the familiar and the otherworldly. Every piece she creates demonstrates her ability to transcend the constraints of traditional representation by fusing diverse aspects into a beautiful whole.

Presently situated in the picturesque environs of Ibiza, Umińska persists in pushing the limits of her artistic manifestation, finding motivation in the island’s abundant cultural diversity and scenic splendour. She immerses herself in the creative process in her studio, which has a view of the Mediterranean Sea, incorporating the essence of her environment into her artwork.

One thing is guaranteed as Umińska’s artistic journey develops: her capacity to enthral and motivate audiences with her moving works. She invites us on a voyage of discovery where the boundaries between reality and fiction dissolve and the commonplace is elevated to the extraordinary via her mastery of deception and her steadfast devotion to creative integrity.

Umińska’s artwork reminds us of the limitless possibilities of human imagination, shining like a beacon of beauty and wonder in a world where reality often feels fractured and ephemeral. She is a tribute to the eternal ability of art to transcend the limitations of the every day and uplift the human spirit. With every brushstroke, she encourages us to gaze beyond the veil of the commonplace and glimpse the hidden depths of existence.

The post Kasia Umińska: Blending Reality and Fantasy appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

“Magzoid has once again showcased through The Emerging Art Icons 2024 Awards that such recognition and upliftment is what the art community thrives on. The moments we witnessed this evening will boost the confidence of everyone present, enabling them to further their pursuit of artistic creativity. The UAE has set its eyes on being not only an economic haven but also a creative haven for the people who come in search of opportunities here. Events such as these catalyze the artistic growth of individuals.” Khalil Abdulwahid, a member of the Jury Panel & Dubai Culture.

The jury panel, which consisted of critically acclaimed and well-established artists in the UAE and the global art scene, shouldered the responsibility of selecting the most deserving artists and institutions for the awards. These distinguished jurors included Sacha Jafri, Khalil Abdulwahid, Amrita Sethi, and Jyo John Mulloor. Their insightful input ensured a fair and meticulous selection process that upheld the integrity of the awards.

The occasion was honoured by the attendance of distinguished consulate generals from Dubai. Other distinguished guests included investors, collectors of art, chairpersons of art and creative bodies, official ministry representatives, and corporates.



The event ceremony was accompanied by performances from acrobats, singers, and dancers. During Emerging Art Icons 2024, a diverse group of artists, including Jamil Boudiab, Tatiana Lamiri Alaoui, Joy Nabil Najm, Aakanksha Kshatriya, and Ajit Gadekar, showcased their talents in immersive galleries. Each artist brought a unique perspective to the exhibition, creating a dynamic and engaging environment that stimulated the senses and sparked meaningful conversations

Magzoid Emerging Art Icons awards covered a wide range of categories, recognizing excellence in various areas. The winners of Magzoid Emerging Art Icons 2024 are:

Best Artist of Determination: Ameera Alzaabi
Best Emerging Artist: Sudheer Balan
Best Art Influencer: Dr. John V. Francis
Best Emerging Art Blog: ArtDayMe
Best Artistic Brand Collaboration: Ati Younesi
Best Artistic Innovation: Fabin Rasheed
Best Digital Art: Clemence Powney
Best Sustainable Art: Kasia Sterriker
Best Abstract Art: Nicole Lilian
Best Calligraphy Artist: Ismail Abdul Rahman
Best Visual Artist: Mohammed Hussein
Best Performance Art: Viktoriia Demi
Best Artistic Social Impact: Abeer Al Edani
Best Emerging Art Gallery: Inloco Gallery
Best Art Curator: Christianna Bonin
Best Public Art: Dr. Khaled Alawadi
Best Contemporary Art: Moosa Al Halyan
Best Art Institution: Jameel Art Center
Best Art Fair: Art Dubai
Best Realism Art: Saggaf Alhashimi
Best Installation Art: Shaikh Maktoum Marwan Hasher Al Maktoum
Best Street Art: Fathima
Best NFT Art: Shaikh Danial

Winners were awarded, acknowledging their outstanding achievements and contributions to the world of art.

“The Event has grown and so has the competition, fantastic turnout, fantastic energy, and a lot of work behind the scenes to assemble the winners in some categories—it hasn’t been simple—strong competition this year, and I would like to congratulate all the names that were submitted,” remarked Sacha Jafri as he addressed the audience.

Year after year, the Magzoid Emerging Art Icons Awards have grown in prominence, becoming the most sought-after and prestigious accolade for emerging artists. With its second edition, the event has garnered increasing attention from art enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals alike, cementing its position as a definitive showcase of emerging talent in the region. The Magzoid Emerging Art Icons 2024 Ceremony was a resounding success, made possible by the generous support of its esteemed sponsors and partners like Wasaya Investments, OOKA, Madly, and ARMAF among others. 

“Magzoid has stepped up the game by giving artists an opportunity and a stage to be recognized,” remarked an attending artist. “The ceremony was a celebration of the power of art to connect people, inspire change, and create new possibilities. It was a testament to the importance of supporting emerging artists and creative thinkers and added to the value of collaboration and innovation in the art field.”

Magzoid extends its heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors whose generous support has made the Emerging Art Icons Awards 2024 possible:

Associate Partner: Wasaya Investments
Networking Partner: OOKA

Supporting Partners: Armaf, LayerX, Siella Beauty, Madly Bespoke Jeweller, African + Eastern.

Event Partner: Vista Gifts, Dubai’s Best Photography and Videography, Experiential Marketing Products, Spark Media.

Media Partners: Khaleej Times, Daily Hunt, Mid East Information, World Art News, The Brew, MAA Gulf, Dubai Global News, One Arabia.

The post Magzoid Emerging Art Icons Awards 2024: Celebrating Creativity and Cultural Impact appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Barbara Purchia’s journey into the realm of creativity began after she retired from the high-tech industry. With over a decade of experience working with stained glass, Barbara’s artwork reflects traditional techniques and abstract interpretations, blending colour and form to evoke a sense of wonder and beauty.

Paul Purchia, known for his innate artistic flair, pays homage to his late friend and mentor, Ali Sadeghpour, through his paintings featured in this exhibition. Each brushstroke is a tribute to their shared passion for art and creativity, infusing Paul’s work with depth and emotional resonance.

Elyse Purchia’s love for travel fuels her insatiable wanderlust and curiosity about the world. Drawing inspiration from her adventures, Elyse’s photography captures fleeting moments and landscapes with a keen eye for detail and composition. Her journey as a photographer began in high school, where she developed a strong foundation in the mechanics of film photography, refining her skills and cultivating her style over the years.

For the Purchia family, art is a labour of love transcending time as they strive to capture the perfect blend of colour, design, and beauty in their respective mediums. Their collective passion and dedication shine through in each piece on display, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of their artistic vision.

To celebrate the opening of “The World Around Us” exhibition, The Gallery @ First Parish invites art enthusiasts and community members to a reception with the artists on Saturday, May 11, from noon to 2 p.m. This special event offers an opportunity to meet the Purchia family, gain insight into their creative process, and engage with their artwork firsthand. Light refreshments will be provided, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and appreciation for the arts.

Throughout the exhibition, The Gallery @ First Parish will be open during church hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition at their leisure and discover the captivating perspectives of the Purchia family captured in glass, oil, and photography.

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