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Mid East Info
10-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai Culture Concludes Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme - Middle East Business News and Information
Organised with the support of the Sikka Platform to strengthen the global presence of Emirati and UAE-based talent Dubai, UAE, June 2025: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has wrapped up the Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme, an initiative supported by the Sikka Platform to expand opportunities for Emirati and UAE-based artists on the global stage. The programme offered participants the chance to engage deeply with Japan's leading art institutions and practitioners. As part of the Dubai Cultural Grant, under the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, this trip reflects Dubai Culture's commitment to empowering creatives, enriching their experiences, and nurturing an environment that allows talent to thrive and innovate. Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, affirmed that Dubai has effectively leveraged cultural diplomacy to build bridges across borders and reinforce its status as a global centre for the arts. She emphasised the importance of the UAE–Japan Creative Exchange, highlighting its role in fostering cross-border cooperation and intellectual knowledge sharing with universities, galleries, and art institutions worldwide. She said: 'This programme opens up new prospects for creatives, offering them opportunities to learn about diverse practices and benefit from academic expertise. Such exposure enables them to explore international trends, improve their modes of expression, and discover innovative ways to reflect the authenticity of our heritage and local identity. By nurturing this spirit of exploration, we are not only advancing Dubai's vision for a prominent place on the world stage but also supporting individuals on their journey to excellence and the growth of the creative economy. Dubai Culture remains dedicated to championing exceptional creators and helping them reach their full potential.' The 10-day programme brought together a distinguished group of Emirati creatives, including artist and curator Sheikh Maktoum bin Marwan Al Maktoum; designer and curator Kamla AlOlama; researcher and Senior Curatorial Assistant at Louvre Abu Dhabi Amna Al Zaabi; multidisciplinary artist Latifa Saeed; Fatma Al Ali whose work focuses on collective memory and oral history; graphic design professor Alanood Bukhammas from the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises at Zayed University; and artist and assistant professor Asma Belhamar, also from Zayed University alongside Lebanese artist and curator Ahmad Makary, founder of The Workshop DXB; and Bahraini artist and curator Yara Ayoob.
Al Bawaba
10-06-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Dubai Culture Concludes Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has wrapped up the Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme, an initiative supported by the Sikka Platform to expand opportunities for Emirati and UAE-based artists on the global stage. The programme offered participants the chance to engage deeply with Japan's leading art institutions and practitioners. As part of the Dubai Cultural Grant, under the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, this trip reflects Dubai Culture's commitment to empowering creatives, enriching their experiences, and nurturing an environment that allows talent to thrive and Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, affirmed that Dubai has effectively leveraged cultural diplomacy to build bridges across borders and reinforce its status as a global centre for the arts. She emphasised the importance of the UAE–Japan Creative Exchange, highlighting its role in fostering cross-border cooperation and intellectual knowledge sharing with universities, galleries, and art institutions said: 'This programme opens up new prospects for creatives, offering them opportunities to learn about diverse practices and benefit from academic expertise. Such exposure enables them to explore international trends, improve their modes of expression, and discover innovative ways to reflect the authenticity of our heritage and local identity. By nurturing this spirit of exploration, we are not only advancing Dubai's vision for a prominent place on the world stage but also supporting individuals on their journey to excellence and the growth of the creative economy. Dubai Culture remains dedicated to championing exceptional creators and helping them reach their full potential.'The 10-day programme brought together a distinguished group of Emirati creatives, including artist and curator Sheikh Maktoum bin Marwan Al Maktoum; designer and curator Kamla AlOlama; researcher and Senior Curatorial Assistant at Louvre Abu Dhabi Amna Al Zaabi; multidisciplinary artist Latifa Saeed; Fatma Al Ali whose work focuses on collective memory and oral history; graphic design professor Alanood Bukhammas from the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises at Zayed University; and artist and assistant professor Asma Belhamar, also from Zayed University alongside Lebanese artist and curator Ahmad Makary, founder of The Workshop DXB; and Bahraini artist and curator Yara programme was guided and mentored by Yusaku Imamura, Vice President of Tokyo University of the Arts and Professor of the Global Art Practice at the Graduate School of Fine Arts, in collaboration with designer and university lecturer Manabu Ozawa, a member of the advisory board at Istituto Marangoni Dubai; architect and curator Kayoko Imamura, Director of the Japan Arts and Culture Foundation and CARD Inc.; and Maitha Al Zaabi, Project Manager of the Japan Art & Culture Delegation immersion As part of the exchange, participants visited Expo 2025 Osaka, where they explored the UAE Pavilion under the theme 'From Earth to Ether.' The pavilion highlights the nation's achievements in space exploration, pioneering healthcare innovations, and advancements in sustainable technologies, blending engineering with cultural depth. During their visit, the group also took part in a discussion with visionary architect Sou Fujimoto, the mastermind behind the Japan Expo Grand programme included visits to some of Japan's most significant landmarks across Tokyo, Osaka, and nearby regions. Highlights were the Mori Art Museum, one of the country's foremost institutions for contemporary art, as well as a number of galleries such as Tomio Koyama Gallery, Shugo Arts, Taka Ishii Gallery. The delegation also met with Yayoi Komatsu, Director of the National Museum of Modern Art in Tokyo (MOMAT), and visited the POLA Museum Annex to view solo exhibitions by artists such as Hiraku Suzuki. Additionally, they spent time at the MOA Museum of Art in Atami—home to approximately 3,500 works, including national treasures—and toured the Odawara Art Foundation established by Hiroshi Sugimoto; a stunning coastal location that integrates with nature and emphasizes on the passage of time and the sun's also made stops at 21_21 Design Sight designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, Karimoku furniture company, Postalco design studio, Takram, Kengo Kuma & Associates, and Tokyo University of the Arts. They connected with some of Japan most important Contemporary Artists such as Kenji Yanobe, and experienced TeamLab's immersive digital installations. The delegation continued the programme to visit CFCL (Clothing for Contemporary Life) and A-1 Pictures animation studio, before ending at the Yayoi Kusama Museum, where they met with Director, Akira from the exchangeAs part of the initiative, artist and curator Sheikh Maktoum bin Marwan Al Maktoum described the experience as rich, noting that it allowed participants to immerse themselves in Japanese arts and culture. He said: 'The programme enabled us to appreciate the nuances of the Japanese cultural landscape, which brought new depth to our intellectual dialogue with Japan.'Echoing this sentiment, artist Asma Belhamar highlighted how the journey was a source of inspiration, giving her and other members of the delegation the chance to discover the aesthetic and cultural ties connecting the two countries. She commented: 'The cities we visited have a deep-rooted history and unique architectural designs. They served as a window into the Japanese arts scene and helped us gain new perspectives.'Designer and curator Kamla AlOlama pointed out the value of expanding creative horizons. The visit, she said, sparked fresh thinking around artistic, architectural, and design concepts, while also facilitating meaningful conversations with distinguished peers and academics. These encounters became a platform to discuss the latest trends. Artist Ahmad Makary reflected on connecting with Japanese artists, something which encouraged him to contemplate how contemporary aesthetics and heritage can inform each other. He added that the exchange offered an opportunity to explore how to embed regional and local identity within modern artistic Yara Ayoob spoke of how the initiative broadened her knowledge and pushed her to rethink how she presents her work. She remarked: 'Every meeting and visit was invaluable, thanks to the thoughtful advice and impactful ideas shared throughout. It made a significant contribution to both my personal and professional development.'Researcher and Curator Amna Al Zaabi described the journey as transformative, bridging the worlds of art and the refined simplicity of Japanese tradition. She said, 'The tours helped me uncover a deep relationship between cultural heritage and expression, which deepened my understanding of creative narratives and their complexity.'Artist Fatma Al Ali expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to visit art studios and observe the practices of Japanese creators. She emphasised that meeting directors of institutions in Japan was an incredible learning experience, adding further depth to the overall Alanood Bukhammas underlined the programme's lasting impact, noting that it reinforced her belief in design as a powerful tool for communication across communities. She stated: 'Participating made it possible to establish sustainable networks and generate new, high-quality ideas that can be applied in educational contexts.' Concluding the reflections, artist Latifa Saeed praised Dubai Culture's efforts in cultivating an environment that supports the exploration of distinctive perspectives. She said, 'Such cultural programmes offer a genuine chance to learn from others. It has a positive influence on the development of our skills and motivates us to grow and develop our abilities.'
Mid East Info
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Hala Badri: showCACE 2025 is an Innovative Platform that Highlights the Power of Emirati Creativity
She commended the projects for their originality and tangible social benefits Dubai, UAE, May 2025: Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), visited the showCACE 2025 Senior Exhibition, which is being organised by the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises at Zayed University in Dubai Design District until 9 May. Her engagement underscores Dubai Culture's support for promising talent in interior design, visual arts, graphic design, and animation, sectors considered key pillars of the emirate's creative economy. Accompanied by Shaima Rashed AlSuwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design & Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, Hala Badri explored a range of graduate projects, praising the students for showcasing their unique perspectives while also addressing real societal needs. She noted that the exhibition serves as a vibrant showcase for up-and-coming creatives, fostering a spirit of innovation and demonstrating the vital role of design and the arts in enriching quality of life. Her remarks also reaffirmed Dubai Culture's commitment to empowering Emirati creators through a supportive environment, in line with Dubai's ambition to become a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. The exhibition showcased a wealth of innovative works. Among them was 'From, To' by Alya Alraeesi, which calls for the use of old Arabic book covers as inspiration for new designs; Maryam Obaid Keraif's 'Adama,' an exploration of how names and faces intertwine; and 'In the Meelas' by Maitha Almarzooqi, which delved into the value of Emirati family gatherings, focusing on the majlis as a space for storytelling and connection. 'Sukoon' by Roudha Fawazi Alhadhrami envisions a women-only yoga centre, where natural materials, ambient lighting, and the gentle sound of flowing water combine to heighten the sensory experience. Highlights also included Aysha Ali Bin Ghadayer's 'Beyond the Self,' a nuanced study of the soul's internal struggle between reproach and desire; Alyaza Ali Belabed's 'ELASSI,' a visionary showroom-and-boutique concept for the eponymous Emirati women's fashion label; and Fatima Hussein's 'Goodness,' which turns a reflective lens on life's maddening minutiae—from daily routines to exam pressures. Meanwhile, Khawla Ali Alraeesi's 'The Emirati Dining Table' documents the rituals of family lunches, emphasising how these moments foster connection, closeness, and a sense of belonging amid rapidly changing modern lifestyles. Mzna Mohamed Abdalla presented 'Safari Hub,' an idea for a 'Super Safari' car agency located in Aljada, Sharjah, infusing Arab motifs. Noora AlMheiri's project 'Escape Umm Al Duwais' draws on traditional Emirati folktales to create an immersive journey, while Shamsa Juma Alghaith's 'Serenity Yoga Studio' reimagines a wellness retreat in Jumeirah Bay, Dubai. Rouda Almarzooqi's 'My Athkar in a Story' transforms the practice of 'athkar' (remembrance) into an interactive educational game for children aged 7–10. The exhibition featured 'Burden of Loss' by Sara Mohammad Aljanahi, a poignant look at the impact of grief on daily life and its role in personal growth. In 'Our Beautiful Words,' student Alhanoof Alblooshi created handwritten cards using old Emirati vocabulary to help residents reconnect with their linguistic heritage. Afra Almuhairi's 'Galini' presented a refined concept for a cosmetic dentistry clinic, while Moza Khalid Almheiri's 'Dior Villa' translates the brand's signature luxury into every architectural detail. Fatima Amir Alharmoodi's 'Al Rolla Station' offered a thoughtful redesign of Sharjah's public transport maps and bus stop signage to improve the user experience. Further contributions ranged from Aisha Sultan Al Ali's 'Sugar Spark Adventure,' an educational game guiding children with diabetes through their health-management journey, to Kaltham Alawadhi's 'Beyond Sights,' an inclusive after-school activity centre for people of determination that engages the senses of touch, hearing, and smell. Lamia Albalooshi's 'From Nature' aimed to highlight the connection between nature, mathematics, and Arabic letterforms. Maryam Abdullah Almatroshi reimagined the environment of 'Topaz Car Detailing' in Dubai, while Maryam BinOmair unveiled her vision for 'CALYX Dental Clinic' in Umm Al Quwain. Salma Adnan Albannai's 'See the Music' examined the fusion of music, artisanal craft, and technology. Moaza Thani AlMuheiri's 'Luxury Supermarket' was focused on balancing opulence with sustainability. Hind Bin Masam Alfalasi's 'Al Mirqab Auction Centre' concept reimagined a venue for falcon-trading. Noora Alhammadi's 'The Rush Game' drew on the adrenaline-fuelled dynamics of the video game 'Call of Duty.' Maitha Al Hamadi's 'Revealing the UnHidden' highlighted the aesthetics of local architecture, while Halima Albalooshi's 'Visuals: Souq Naif' provided an in-depth look at Dubai's Naif Market and its ornamental motifs. Latifa Saleh Al Shafiei explored the influence of fashion on identity and personal expression, while Mahra Hussain's 'Almahra Horse Riding Booklet' serves as an engaging guide for children. Other notable works included 'Between Stillness and Chaos' by Alya Saoud Alabdooli, as well as many other projects inspired by the local social landscape.
