The Bulletin bringing you the latest highlights in the art world

December 2024

Samia Osseiran Jumblatt Passes Away

Samia Osseiran Jumblatt, a renowned Lebanese artist and cultural advocate, has passed away, leaving behind an enduring legacy. Born in Sidon, Lebanon, she was celebrated for her vivid and poetic abstract paintings, often inspired by nature, memory, and spirituality. A pioneering figure in Lebanon’s art scene, she played a significant role in promoting art and cultural dialogue through her work and support of artistic initiatives. Her career spanned several decades, marked by exhibitions in Lebanon and abroad, where her works were admired for their emotional depth and elegance. Samia’s profound impact on art and culture will be deeply missed.

Wael Shawky Appointed Artistic Director of Fire Station: Artist in Residence

Qatar Museums (QM) has announced Wael Shawky as the first Artistic Director of its creative hub, Fire Station: Artist in Residence. The celebrated Egyptian-born artist will lead the prestigious residency program, which has nurtured nearly 100 emerging artists from Qatar and the region. Based in Alexandria and Philadelphia, Shawky is renowned for his innovative storytelling through film, performance, and video. His acclaimed works have been exhibited at global institutions such as Tate Modern, MoMA PS1, and Serpentine Gallery. Most recently, Shawky represented Egypt at the 60th Venice Biennale (2024) with his video work Drama 1882.

Farah Al Qasimi Wins 2025 Bernd and Hilla Becher Förderpreis

Farah Al Qasimi, has been awarded the 2025 Bernd and Hilla Becher Förderpreis, valued at €5,000. Known for her work in photography, video, and performance, Al Qasimi explores postcolonial structures of power, gender, and taste in the Gulf States. A Yale University graduate with an MFA from Yale School of Art, she divides her time between Dubai and New York. Her vibrant, visually striking photographs delve into the unspoken social norms embedded in everyday life, challenging boundaries and redefining contemporary aesthetics. The jury praised her ability to create thought-provoking worlds addressing globalisation and gender in the post-internet era.

Quoz Arts Fest announces lineup

Quoz Arts Fest returns for its 12th edition on 25–26 January 2025, transforming Alserkal Avenue and the Quoz Creative Zone into a vibrant celebration of art, music, and culture. Featuring live performances by Omar Offendum, Emel Mathlouthi, Ÿuma, and more, the festival also showcases public art installations, exhibitions, and workshops. Highlights include Forest Dancer and the Path to Pure Creation by ENESS and gallery exhibitions by regional and international artists. The family-friendly event includes Kids’ Lane activities, Reel Palestine films, and curated culinary experiences. Tickets start at AED 63, with free entry for seniors and children under 18.

Boghossian Foundation Prize 2023 announces winners

The Boghossian Prize for Lebanon was awarded in Beirut to Hussein Nassereddine, Petram Chalach, and Monya Riachi for the Visual Arts Prize; Josef Khallouf for the ‘Cinema Coup de Cœur’ Prize, in partnership with the Lebanon Cinema Foundation; and Basma Khatib and Jana Salika for the Literature Prize, in collaboration with the Assabil municipal libraries. Established in 2012 to promote and strengthen ties between the West and the East through art, the Boghossian Foundation Prize in Lebanon honours emerging Lebanese artists.

November 2024

Sharjah Film Platform 2024 announces winners for the 7th edition

Sharjah Art Foundation has announced the winners of the Sharjah Film Platform Awards, recognising achievements across four categories. This year, films in competition were nominated by an international committee, showcasing works from regions including Myanmar, Rwanda, Bahrain, and Palestine. Alain Kassanda’s Coconut Head Generation won Best Documentary Feature for its exploration of youth and intellectual freedom, while Alana Hunt’s Surveilling A Crime Scene was awarded Best Documentary Short for its depiction of colonisation’s ongoing impact in Australia. In the Fiction Feature category, Phạm Ngọc Lân’s Cu Li Never Cries stood out for its narrative weaving Vietnamese history with contemporary life, and Maha Haj’s Upshot claimed Best Fiction Short for its portrayal of loss and resilience. Honourable mentions went to From Ground Zero by Rashid Masharawi and Oasis of Now by Chia Chee Sum. The winning films were evaluated by a jury comprising filmmakers, academics, and industry professionals. The seventh edition, held from 15-24 November 2024, featured screenings, discussions on Asian and African cinema, and a newly enhanced Feature Fund for UAE filmmakers.

UNESCO Grants Enhanced Protection to 34 Lebanese Heritage Sites

On November 18, the UNESCO Committee for the Protection of Cultural Property added 34 Lebanese heritage sites to its enhanced protection list, following an urgent session in Paris. This decision comes as Israel’s airstrikes intensify over Lebanon, with Lebanese authorities raising concerns about the safety of these sites. Among those granted protection are the Roman temples of Baalbek, archaeological sites in Tyre, Byblos, and Beirut’s National Museum. UNESCO’s director-general Audrey Azoulay emphasised the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding Lebanon’s heritage, with these sites now benefiting from immunity against attack and military use under the 1954 Hague Convention.

Yto Barrada to Represent France at 2026 Venice Biennale

French-Moroccan artist Yto Barrada has been selected to represent France at the 61st Venice Biennale in 2026. Known for her abstract textiles, photography, and films, Barrada addresses geo-political issues such as the climate crisis, immigration, and post-colonialism. The selection committee praised her ability to unite various artistic and social communities in search of a new utopia. Barrada’s work, including projects like A Life Full of Holes and The Raft, explores themes of migration, revolution, and the socio-political landscape. Recently, she pulled her work from the Barbican’s Unravel exhibition in protest against the institution’s censorship of free speech.

Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial Debuts with Installations and Cultural Celebrations

The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial has transformed Abu Dhabi into a hub of creativity and culture with a diverse array of art installations and activities. Running until 30 April 2025, the Biennial explores the concept of “public” through eight curated routes across iconic locations, featuring over 70 artists from the UAE and beyond. Highlights include works by Farah Al Qasimi, Azza Al Qubaisi, and Tania Candiani. Community hubs along the routes offer performances, workshops, and pop-up experiences, while an extensive public program engages visitors with talks, screenings, and interactive events, celebrating Abu Dhabi’s vibrant cultural landscape.

Hamed Nada’s Battle for Liberation Leads Bonhams’ £2.4 Million Middle Eastern Art Sale

Hamed Nada’s Battle for Liberation (Maerakat al-Tahrir), a pivotal work of Egyptian modernism, sold for £216,300—over three times its estimate—at Bonhams’ Modern and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art sale on 13 November. Exhibited at the Musée Galliera’s 1971 show of Egyptian art, the 1970 masterpiece highlighted the £2.4 million auction. A rare diptych, El Zar by Omar El Nagdi, also fetched £216,300. Other standout sales included works by Faeq Hassan (£108,350), Mahmoud Sabri (£108,350), Ismail Shammout (£95,650), and Louay Kayyali (£76,600).

Sharjah Art Foundation Opens Applications for UAE-Based Filmmakers to Sharjah Film Platform Feature Fund

Sharjah Art Foundation invites UAE-based scriptwriters, directors, and producers to apply for the Sharjah Film Platform Feature Fund, offering up to 500,000 AED to support feature-length narrative films in English or Arabic. Shortlisted applicants will pitch their projects to an industry jury in 2025, with one winner selected for funding. Eligibility requires UAE residency, a completed script, 15 minutes of recorded rushes, and a detailed budget. Applicants must also submit a director’s statement, producer’s statement, and production schedule. The fund aims to foster independent cinema through comprehensive support. Applications close at 11:59 pm (UAE time) on 28 February 2025.

Abbas Akhavan Selected to Represent Canada at the 2026 Venice Biennale

Abbas Akhavan (b. 1977, Tehran, Iran; lives and works in Montreal and Berlin) has been selected to represent Canada at the 61st Venice Biennale, running from April to November 2026. Known for his interdisciplinary practice, Akhavan creates site-specific works that engage with architecture, memory, and the natural world, often exploring the tensions between human systems and their environments. Chosen by a committee of Canadian art experts, including Julie Crooks and Léuli Eshrāghi, Akhavan’s selection highlights his profound contributions to contemporary art. His recent exhibitions include Survival in the 21st Century (2024) and Curtain Call (2023).

Sharjah Art Foundation announces screening programme for Sharjah Film Platform 7

Sharjah Art Foundation announces the seventh edition of Sharjah Film Platform (SFP7), running from 15 to 24 November 2024. The festival will showcase a diverse range of films, including documentaries and fiction from countries such as Myanmar, Bhutan, Nigeria, and Palestine. Screenings will take place at Mirage City Cinema and VOX Cinemas in Sharjah. The competition features films competing in four categories: Documentary Feature, Documentary Short, Fiction Feature, and Fiction Short. Notable screenings include A Fidai Film by Kamal Aljafari and Upshot by Maha Haj. The Director in Focus section highlights Mohamad Malas, alongside a series of engaging talks.

Ithra Announces Islamic Art Conference & Public Program

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has announced its Islamic Art Conference, taking place from November 24-26, 2024, in collaboration with the Alfozan Award for Mosque Architecture. The conference will explore contemporary Islamic arts and crafts across the Arab world, with over 50 participants and 27+ speakers from 13+ countries. The event will focus on revitalizing traditional crafts and advocating for artisans as artists. It includes ten symposiums on topics such as the impact of crafts on society, sustainability, and preserving cultural heritage. In addition, a public program of exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops will run from November 24-30.

The Gallery Collective Launches at Sotheby’s Dubai

Sotheby’s Dubai introduces The Gallery Collective, a collaborative initiative with leading UAE-based galleries running from November 2024 to 2026. This two-year series features rotating exhibitions at Sotheby’s DIFC location, with each partner gallery curating a unique show every six to eight weeks to showcase their distinct artistic vision. The initial lineup includes notable galleries such as Tabari Artspace, Zidoun-Bossuyt, Leila Heller, Iyad Qanazea, Aisha Al Abbar, The Third Line, Lawrie Shabibi, Carbon 12, Efie Gallery, and Green Art Gallery. Open on weekdays, this series will also host complimentary talks.

Metropolitan Museum and Sedar Global Unite for Art-Inspired Home Collection

The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Sedar Global introduce a collaboration that merges iconic art with home interiors. For the first time in the region, Sedar customers can access soft furnishings inspired by The Met’s renowned collection, featuring works by Monet, Van Gogh, Hokusai, Klimt, and more. Launching in October 2024, the collection’s initial theme highlights nature, with future releases reflecting The Met’s vast, 5,000-year art heritage. This partnership supports Sedar’s legacy and showcases art through custom furnishings like curtains and upholstery. Both institutions aim to spark dialogues on art and design, enriching home spaces with culture.

Omar El-Nagdi’s Monumental El Zar Leads Bonhams’ Art Sale

A standout piece by Omar El-Nagdi, a monumental four-meter diptych titled El Zar, will be the highlight of Bonhams’ Modern and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art sale on 13 November at New Bond Street, estimated at £200,000-300,000. This work is the largest Egyptian scene by El-Nagdi ever to be auctioned, celebrating ritual and spirituality with dynamic, vibrant imagery. According to Noor Soussi, Head of the department, the piece exemplifies El-Nagdi’s skill in blending tradition with contemporary expression. The Zar ritual depicted is an ancient, women-led healing practice from East Africa, embodying song, dance, and spirituality still active in Egypt today.

Design Doha Debuts at Dubai Design Week with Arab Design Now

Design Doha, established by Qatar Museums to celebrate contemporary design in Qatar and the MENA region, launched internationally in Dubai with an event at Skooni Art Foundation & Residence and a ‘Reading Lounge’ at Dubai Design Week 2024. This debut featured the launch of Arab Design Now, a comprehensive publication edited by Rana Beiruti that showcases regional design talent. Fahad Al Obaidly, Acting Director, highlighted the significance of promoting design dialogues. The event included a panel led by Glenn Adamson, featuring voices like Nada Debs, and strengthened ties with Dubai’s creative community, aiming to inspire collaboration and spotlight MENA design innovation.

Aisha by Yumna Al-Arashi Launches at The Third Line Shop

The Third Line Shop launches Aisha, the first monograph by Yemeni Egyptian American artist Yumna Al–Arashi. Aisha, published by Edition Patrick Frey, is Yumna Al-Arashi’s tribute to her ancestral lineage, inspired by her great-grandmother’s life. Through evocative photography and prose, Al-Arashi reflects on family memories and delves into intergenerational storytelling, colonial archives, and female identity across borders. The book showcases portraits of Northern African women, capturing their joy, strength, and resilience. The launch, organised by studio salasil, will include a talk with Al-Arashi and Ruba Al-Sweel, moderated by Zainab Hasoon. Studio salasil, a curatorial space focused on care, research, and experimentation, fosters collaboration to challenge traditional exhibition practices and redefine creative possibilities.

Raya Kassisieh joins Hunna Art

Raya Kassisieh has joined Hunna Art’s roster of artists, bringing a multidisciplinary approach that explores the politics of the body through deeply personal forms. Born in 1991, her background in textiles and pattern-making informs her sculptural work, where she uses materials like steel and copper to create intricate, naturalistic pieces influenced by her cultural roots. The body becomes a tool for reimagining silent dialogues around autonomy and identity, challenging social narratives and reshaping them into spaces of renewed existence. Of Jordanian Palestinian heritage, Kassisieh studied at Pratt Institute (BFA, 2014) and recently completed an MA in Sculpture at the Royal College of Art (2024).

Sharjah Museums Authority Unveils New Publication at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) joins the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair under the theme “This is How We Begin,” showcasing a journey through Sharjah’s museums. SMA introduces “Sharjah Museums,” a publication inspired by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s vision, celebrating the emirate’s heritage. The book, divided into three sections—History and Heritage, Art and Culture, and Discovery and Science—captures Sharjah’s historical, artistic, and scientific achievements. The SMA platform features interactive activities like “Colour Square” and a Travel and Exploration Exhibition, displaying artefacts such as a camel figurine, an astrolabe, and maritime tools. Visit Hall 5, Stand N-22 from November 6–17.

Sotheby’s to Launch in Saudi Arabia with the Kingdom’s First International Auction

Sotheby’s will host its first-ever auction in Saudi Arabia, titled Origins, on 8 February 2025, marking a milestone as the Kingdom’s inaugural international auction. Set in the historic Diriyah, a UNESCO heritage site and the birthplace of the First Saudi State, the event will feature modern and contemporary art, Islamic objects, luxury items, and collectables. Preceded by a public exhibition from 1-8 February, the event celebrates art, culture, and luxury. This auction follows Sotheby’s official inauguration in Saudi Arabia and will coincide with the opening of their Riyadh office, reinforcing their commitment to supporting the region’s cultural and artistic growth.

Joanna Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige Honoured with Creative Achievement Award at El Gouna Film Festival

Lebanese artists Joanna Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige won the the Creative Achievement Award at the seventh El Gouna Film Festival underscoring their influence in the fields of contemporary art and cinema. Known for their storytelling and exploration of themes such as memory, history, and identity, the duo has redefined cinematic and artistic expression through their compelling narratives and visual works. Their notable films, including Memory Box, Lebanese Rocket Society, and I Want to See, have resonated globally, earning accolades at festivals like Cannes, Berlin, and Toronto. Hadjithomas’ heartfelt dedication of the award to Lebanon, Palestine, and Gaza highlighted their commitment to using art as a means of cultural and political reflection. Their work not only enriches artistic discourse but also sheds light on the resilience and stories of their homeland, inspiring audiences and fostering dialogue in the region and beyond.

Rashid Johnson’s Village of the Sun Unveiled at Doha International Airport Park

Village of the Sun, a monumental public artwork by artist Rashid Johnson, was unveiled by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani at Doha International Airport Park. Consisting of four mosaic-clad walls, the artwork features figures from Johnson’s Broken Men series, blending self-portraits and collective identity. Honouring the rich history of mosaics while infusing it with contemporary significance, the piece reflects Qatar’s multicultural essence, evoking shared humanity. A legacy of the Qatar–USA 2021 Year of Culture, Village of the exemplifies Johnson’s innovative use of materials and themes of identity, memory, and human experience.

Alserkal Art Week 2024 presents ‘Acts of Presence’

Alserkal Art Week returns from November 17 to 25 at Alserkal Avenue, focusing on ‘Acts of Presence’ and the power of connection in a divided world. Highlights include Made Present, a research exhibition on Palestinian artworks that challenge erasure, and Walk With Me, a public art series exploring fragility and resilience. Notable public art commissions include works by Dima Srouji, Asma Belhamar, Abbas Akhavan, and Vikram Divecha. Majlis Talks will feature African creative leaders tackling dominant narratives. The week also offers exhibitions from Thaier Helal, Eman Al Hashemi, and others, alongside research displays and open studios.

October 2024

Sfeir Semler Gallery adds Alia Farid to its roster of artists

Sfeir Semler Gallery announces its representation of Alia Farid. Alia Farid is a Kuwaiti artist known for her interdisciplinary approach, combining elements of installation, painting, and performance to explore themes of identity, memory, and cultural narratives. Born in Kuwait, she earned her BA in Fine Arts from the University of Kuwait and an MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. Farid’s work often reflects her experiences of growing up in a post-colonial context, addressing social and political issues through a contemporary lens. Her art has been exhibited internationally, including at the Sharjah Biennial and the Venice Biennale, making her a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene.

Fashion Trust Arabia 2024 Prize Winners Announced

Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) celebrated its sixth annual FTA 2024 Prize at the historic El Badi Palace in Marrakech, Morocco, as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture initiative. The event honoured seven talented designers and featured international celebrities, including hosts Angela Bassett and Ahmad Helmy. Winners, chosen by a distinguished jury, received cash prizes between $100,000 and $200,000, along with mentorship and opportunities to showcase their work at Harrods and Ounass. This year’s prize winners include Yasmin Mansour for Eveningwear and Nadine Mosallam for Ready-to-Wear, highlighting the rich cultural exchange between Qatar and Morocco.

Louvre Abu Dhabi Launches Fellowships and Grants Programme for Art Research

Louvre Abu Dhabi has launched a new Fellowships and Grants Programme aimed at advancing research in art and history. Open to global scholars and museum professionals, the initiative focuses on three thematic axes: the Global History of Museums and Collections, the Circulation of Styles, Images and Texts, and Precious Materials and Routes of Exchange. The museum will provide substantial funding, with AED 85,000 for short-term fellowships and AED 245,000 for long-term ones. Applications are open until January 10, 2025, and selected candidates will be announced in March 2025. This program underscores the museum’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue and scholarship.

Canada Names Abbas Akhavan for 2026 Venice Biennale Pavilion

For the 61st edition in 2026, Canada names Abbas Akhavan as its featured artist. Born in Tehran and based in Montreal and Berlin, Akhavan is celebrated for site-specific installations that explore place, history, and memory. His multimedia work—including video, sculpture, and performance—promises a unique response to the Canadian pavilion in Venice’s Giardini. Akhavan’s recent exhibitions include shows at London’s Chisenhale Gallery and Copenhagen Contemporary, with a retrospective planned at the Walker Art Center in 2026. The artist committee commended Akhavan’s thoughtful approach to material and site.

Tanween 2024: Saudi Arabia’s Leading Design Conference Returns

The seventh edition of Saudi Arabia’s premier design conference, Tanween, returns to Ithra from October 31 to November 6, 2024. This year’s theme, “Fail Forward,” encourages designers to view setbacks as opportunities for innovation, advancing design practices. Key highlights include a collaboration with Italy’s Isola platform and participation in global events, including Dubai Design Week. Tanween’s program features inspiring talks, panels, and workshops led by international experts such as Nawaf Nahar Al-Nassar, Ross Lovegrove, and Michelle Jafery. Tanween reinforces Ithra’s commitment to fostering creative growth and cross-cultural collaboration in the design community.

Sharjah Film Platform 2024 returns for its seventh edition

Sharjah Art Foundation’s Sharjah Film Platform (SFP) returns for its seventh year from November 15–24, 2024, spotlighting innovative films across genres. Screening at Mirage City Cinema and VOX Cinemas, this edition features UAE premieres of international films competing for the SFP Awards, with entries from countries including Myanmar, Nigeria, and Palestine. Highlights include works by acclaimed directors Kamal Al Jafari and Pham Ngoc Lan. A tribute to Syrian director Mohamad Malas includes screenings and a masterclass, complemented by public programs and the newly expanded Feature Fund for UAE-based filmmakers.

YAZ Publications launches 13 book series as part of Sharjah Biennial 16

The launch of YAZ Publications will take place as part of Sharjah Biennial 16, contributed by co-curator Zeynep Öz in collaboration with Canal Projects, New York. This series features 13 books that include artist contributions, fictional and creative texts, editorial compilations, and book exhibitions. The publications gather multiple authors to (re)imagine various past, present, and future moments of transition across economic and friendship systems. The evening will feature a panel discussion with Zeynep Öz, SB16 artist Hellen Ascoli, and artists Dawn Chan and Sarah Demeuse. YAZ Publications will be available for purchase at the launch and online through the SAF Shop in November 2024.

Sharjah Museums Authority Commemorates Ten Years of Cultural Exchange at the SAWA Conference

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) will host the “SAWA: A Decade of Cross-Cultural Museum Learning” conference from November 4-5, 2024, celebrating ten years of the SAWA Museum Studies Program. This hybrid event, held at Sharjah Archaeology Museum and streamed online, is organised in collaboration with Crescent Group and Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. The conference will feature keynote speeches, expert panels, and workshops, focusing on museum learning, diversity, and international cooperation. Participants will explore Sharjah’s key cultural sites, celebrating SAWA’s impact on fostering cross-cultural dialogue and professional development in the museum sector.

Vatican Apostolic Library Joins 2025 Islamic Art Biennale

In a historic cultural exchange, the Vatican Apostolic Library will participate in the 2025 Islamic Art Biennale in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from January 25 to May 25, 2025. Held at the Hajj Terminal, this event promotes cross-cultural dialogue, with the Vatican’s involvement symbolizing unity and mutual respect. A key highlight will be the Vatican’s contribution to the “AlMadar” section, focusing on the role of numbers in Islamic civilisation. The biennale will present Islamic art alongside Vatican manuscripts, exploring shared intellectual and artistic traditions, and emphasising the universal connections between cultures through mathematics, science, and spirituality.

Dubai Design District (d3) and Isola Design Group Unveil Inaugural Collaborative Initiative: Design Next

Dubai Design District (d3) and Isola Design Group are launching “Design Next,” an exhibition focused on the circular economy, as part of Dubai Design Week 2024. This marks the first collaboration between d3 and the Milan-based Isola Design Group, which recently expanded into the Middle East. Running from 5-10 November, the exhibition will showcase sustainable design ideas from independent designers, studios, and innovative brands. It aims to inspire eco-conscious design thinking and feature panel discussions and live performances. Design Next highlights circular design, urban living, and sustainable materials, fostering collaboration to shape a more sustainable future.

Ali Cherri at Musée Delacroix in dialogue with Eugène Delacroix’s works

The Musée Delacroix presents two cabinets of curiosity by Lebanese artist Ali Cherri in dialogue with Eugène Delacroix’s works as part of the Public Program for Art Basel Paris. Represented by Almine Rech Gallery, Cherri explores how histories of trauma and violence intersect with museum collections, examining the politics of visibility and its impact on collective memory. His cabinets, resembling relics from various collections, reflect on the afterlife of artefacts and museum narratives. Displayed alongside Delacroix’s paintings, they highlight Cherri’s fascination with the body, history, and the legacy of objects in cultural institutions.

Stéphanie Saadé and Marfa’ Gallery Win the 2024 FLUXUS–CPGA Prize

Fluxus Art Projects, Frieze London, and the Comité Professionnel des Galeries d’Art announce Stéphanie Saadé and her gallery Marfa’ as the winners of the second FLUXUS – CPGA Prize, awarded on October 10 in London. Born in Lebanon in 1983, Saadé lives and works between Beirut and Paris. She is a graduate of the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris and the China Academy of Arts. Saadé has participated in residencies and exhibited at institutions like Centre Pompidou, Sharjah Biennial, and MAXXI. Marfa’ was founded in 2015 and focuses on idea-based projects engaging Beirut’s contemporary art scene.

Muhannad Shono book launch in Paris at the Palais de Tokyo

The release of Muhannad Shono Works [2014–2024], published by Kehrer Verlag launched at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris. Edited by curator and writer Nat Muller, the book features essays by Islamic art historian Hala Auji, architect and writer Todd Reisz, and scholar Alison Sperling. It highlights Shono as one of Saudi Arabia’s most original artistic voices, exploring his distinct visual language and positioning his work within a transformative moment in the region and the global contemporary art scene. The monograph will launch on October 17, 2024, at Palais de Tokyo in Paris with an exclusive event.

Noor Riyadh book launch at Assouline London

Noor Riyadh, a flagship program of Riyadh Art, has launched its first coffee table book, Noor Riyadh: A New Visual Culture, in collaboration with Assouline. Celebrated in London, this publication commemorates Noor Riyadh’s status as the world’s largest light art festival. The book offers a visual journey through previous editions, blending tradition and modernity, while highlighting contributions from Saudi and international artists. Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030, Noor Riyadh enriches the cultural scene and cements Riyadh as a global arts hub. The festival returns from November 28 to December 14, 2024, under the theme Light Years Apart.

CAP Kuwait organises exhibition to raise awareness about Lebanon

The Contemporary Art Platform, the Lebanese Business Council Kuwait, and the Lebanese Ladies Society in Kuwait are committed to raising awareness about the tragic events unfolding in Lebanon. Through this initiative, they seek to emphasise the resilience, strength, and enduring beauty of Lebanon and its rich culture, even in the face of adversity. The exhibition will showcase a selection of artworks from the CAP Collection, reflecting diverse artistic expressions that embody the spirit of Lebanon. Alongside the exhibition, we are accepting donations to aid those affected by the war. Contributions such as clothing, hygiene products, and essential supplies are welcomed at the gallery, and we will ensure they reach those in need in Lebanon.

Hayy Jameel Unveils Autumn Film Program for 2024

Art Jameel announces its autumn 2024 program at Hayy Jameel, featuring a mix of exhibitions, films, markets, symposia, and workshops for all ages. Key highlights include the upcoming group exhibition ‘We Saw an Endless Cycle,’ opening on November 27, 2024, showcasing artworks that explore the relationship between urban spaces and human experiences. The solo exhibition ‘Moving Mountains’ by Ahaad Alamoudi, running until October 26, 2024, examines Saudi Arabia’s cultural transformations. Hayy Cinema, the first independent cinema in Saudi Arabia, will screen acclaimed films like ‘Back to Alexandria’ and host Horror Week from October 23 to November 3. Hayy Learning continues its community engagement with workshops for children and youth, while the Jameel Library offers an extensive collection on cinema and visual arts. The Hayy Markets on November 22-23 will feature local artisans and producers, and the cultural Japanese festival, Hayy Matsuri, will take place in January 2025.

Fahad Al Obaidly Appointed Acting Director of Design Doha

Qatar Museums has appointed Fahad Al Obaidly as Acting Director of Design Doha, a biennial celebrating design excellence in Qatar and the MENA region. With over 15 years of experience in the culture and creative industries, Fahad is a key figure in Doha’s creative landscape. In his new role, he will oversee daily operations, partnerships, and planning for the 2026 edition of Design Doha, working alongside Artistic Director Glenn Adamson. Previously, Fahad served as Deputy Director of Programs and Partnership for Design Doha and played a vital role in the inaugural biennial and other major cultural projects in Qatar.

Qatar Museums and Akoje Residency Launch Artist in Residence Programme at Dumfries House in Scotland

Qatar Museums and the UK-based Akoje Residency have announced a partnership to promote cross-cultural exchange between the Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) regions. The collaboration will allow two SWANA-based artists per year to participate in the Akoje Residency x King’s Foundation Artist in Residence Programme at Dumfries House, Scotland. Led by Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, the initiative supports emerging artists in developing their practices and expanding networks. The residency includes workshops, open-studio events, and exhibitions. Applications are open until November 15th, 2024, with selected artists joining the programme in April 2025.

Design Doha Presents ‘Arab Design Now’ Book

Design Doha, Qatar Museums’ biennial exhibition highlighting innovation in design, has unveiled ‘Arab Design Now,’ an extensive survey showcasing local and regional design talent across various disciplines. This illustrated 360-page book, edited by curator Rana Beiruti and published by Qatar Museums in collaboration with Silvana Editoriale, features a foreword by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani and an introduction by Glenn Adamson. It includes essays by Beiruti and Noura Al Sayeh-Holtrop, detailing the philosophies of over 70 designers in architecture, furniture, and craft. The book’s interstellar motif symbolises the connections among featured artists. Now available in English and Arabic, ‘Arab Design Now’ is set to elevate the discourse on Arab design globally. The launch event took place at The Ned Doha on September 28, featuring a presentation and book signing by Beiruti.

V&A Museum Acquires Aya Haidar’s ‘Safe Space’ Series

The V&A Museum in the UK has acquired six works from Aya Haidar’s ‘Safe Space’ series. The Beirut explosion on August 4th, 2020, profoundly impacted Lebanese society and inspired personal reflections from the artist. After retrieving CCTV footage from a friend’s studio near the port, which recorded the panic and hesitation following the tremor, Haidar initiated a series of conversations with her mother. These discussions revealed the mother’s experiences growing up during Lebanon’s 15-year civil war, characterised by daily bombings and a constant state of survival. The resulting hand-stitched embroidery hoops reflect on these narratives, examining the enduring effects of war, trauma, and the absurdities of survival.

Theme, Curators, Title and Participants Announced for Sharjah Biennial 16

Sharjah Art Foundation announces the theme, curators, and participants for the 16th edition of the Sharjah Biennial, titled: ‘to carry’. Featuring over 140 artists, including more than 80 new commissions, the Biennial will unfold across Sharjah. Curators Alia Swastika, Amal Khalaf, Megan Tamati-Quennell, Natasha Ginwala, and Zeynep Öz explore the concept of “carrying” — be it a home, history, or resistance — as a multivocal theme. The Biennial addresses the cultural, societal, and personal weight we bear while navigating temporalities, migration, and survival, fostering new dialogues and collective futures through art.

Diriyah Art Futures Announces Inaugural Emerging New Media Artists Programme

Diriyah Art Futures, a New Media Arts center in Saudi Arabia, has revealed the 12 selected participants for its inaugural Emerging New Media Artists Programme. Launching later this year, the year-long, fully-funded program provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, a production budget, mentorship from international digital artists, and learning opportunities with global guest professors in New Media Art.

The selected artists include: Salma Aly (Egypt), Samia Dzaïr (Algeria-France), Aya Abu Ghazaleh (Jordan), Dhia Dhibi (Tunisia), Khaled Makshoush (Saudi Arabia), William Brooks (Wales), Haonan HE (China), Turki AlQahtani (Saudi Arabia), Youssef El Idrissi (Morocco), Kyle Donald Marais (South Africa), Mohamed Al Mubarak (Bahrain), and Almuqawil Meshal (Saudi Arabia).

The program, developed in collaboration with Le Fresnoy – Studio National des Arts Contemporains, supports Riyadh’s ambition to become a global hub for New Media Art.

Refik Anadol to Launch the World’s First AI Art Museum

Opening in 2025, Dataland will be the world’s first permanent museum dedicated to artificial intelligence art, marking a significant milestone in the digital art landscape. Conceived by artist Refik Anadol, whose data visualisations have captivated audiences globally, the museum will house AI-generated works commissioned by institutions over the past decade. Located in Frank Gehry’s Grand L.A., a mixed-use development in downtown Los Angeles, Dataland will join a vibrant cultural corridor that includes the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Broad, and Walt Disney Hall—where Anadol famously projected shapeshifting visuals. Anadol, originally from Turkey, moved to L.A. in 2012 to study at UCLA, where he now teaches. Together with his partner, Efsun Erkiliç, he has transformed how art is created using vast datasets.

September 2024

Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim Unveils New Sculptures at Frieze Sculpture 2024

Lawrie Shabibi announces that Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim will showcase two sculptures—The Form (2024) and The Ghaf Tree (2024)—at Frieze Sculpture 2024 in Regent’s Park, London. This marks Lawrie Shabibi’s third participation in the event. Notably, it is the first time Ibrahim’s papier-mâché sculptures have been recast in materials suitable for outdoor exhibition. The Form draws inspiration from the Khor Fakkan desert landscape, evoking ancient cave art through shapes reminiscent of primitive tools and organic forms. Conversely, The Ghaf Tree celebrates the culturally significant Ghaf tree, symbolising resilience and sustainability in the UAE’s arid environment. Ibrahim’s work blends childlike wonder with deeper reflections on archaeology and psychology, inviting viewers to engage with their surroundings through a reinvented lens.

Christie’s Expands Presence in the Middle East with New Riyadh Location

Christie’s expands into the Middle East with a new Riyadh location led by Nour Kelani. This will be Christie’s second regional office, complementing its Dubai branch opened in 2005. Although no opening date is set, the Riyadh gallery will focus on Modern and contemporary Middle Eastern art, jewellery, and timepieces, targeting the kingdom’s young, affluent population. Christie’s has played a pivotal role in shaping the art market in the region, particularly after achieving notable sales like Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi for $450.3 million in 2017 to a third-party bidder associated with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This move follows a growing trend of cultural investment in Saudi Arabia, driven by the Vision 2030 initiative.

Dima Srouji’s Works Acquired by Prominent International Collections

Lawrie Shabibi Gallery announces the recent acquisitions of works by Dima Srouji into prominent international collections. MIT Libraries in Cambridge, Massachusetts, have acquired Late Monuments 6 (2024), a stone-carved window with coloured glass inlays inspired by the traditional Qamariya technique, for the Aga Khan Documentation Center. Art Jameel Collection, spanning Saudi Arabia and the UAE, acquired Maintaining the Sacred (2023), a piece paying homage to the craft of Qamariya windows, created in response to the 2022 damage of 30 stained glass windows at Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock. Additionally, the Sharjah Art Foundation Collection has acquired She Still Wears Kohl and Smells like Roses (2022), a video exploring Palestine’s glass-making history through archival footage and traditional craft. Srouji’s work is now part of a growing list of distinguished collections, reflecting her innovative approach to cultural heritage and public space in the Middle East.

2025 Islamic Arts Biennale Unveils Title, Theme, and Announces Participants

The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, titled And All That Is In Between, will explore how faith is experienced, expressed, and celebrated through thinking, feeling, and making. Over 30 global institutions and 20 new artist commissions will participate. The Biennale, running from January 25 to May 25, 2025, in Jeddah, juxtaposes historical Islamic artefacts with contemporary art. Held at the Western Hajj Terminal, the exhibition offers audiences the rare opportunity to view objects from Makkah and Madinah. Led by renowned curators, the event fosters a deeper understanding of Islamic art and its global cultural significance.

Elmarsa Gallery Showcases Baya at Frieze Masters 2024

Elmarsa Gallery announces its participation in this year’s Frieze Masters, showcasing a selection of works by renowned Algerian artist Baya. Featured in the Frieze Masters Spotlight Section, the gallery will present paintings from the mid-1960s to the late 1970s, highlighting Baya’s significant impact on North African post-colonial art movements and her connection to the French Surrealist movement. Often associated with Surrealism, Baya defied strict categorisation, instead embracing a unique style she called “Bayaism,” blending folklore and lived experience. Frieze Masters takes place in London’s Regent’s Park from October 10-13, 2024.

Sheikh Sultan Inaugurates “Roots and Modernity: A Celebration of Contemporary Mediterranean Arab Art” 

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the “Roots and Modernity: A Celebration of Contemporary Mediterranean Arab Art” exhibition at the Sharjah Art Museum, organised by the Sharjah Museums Authority and the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts. Running until November 24, the exhibition features 80 masterpieces from prominent Arab artists, blending traditional influences with modern techniques. His Highness toured the exhibition, viewing notable works such as Fahrelnissa Zeid’s “Feast in the Desert” and Sliman Mansour’s “Mother Palestine.” The event concluded with an exchange of gifts with HRH Princess Wijdan Al-Hashemi.

ATHR Foundation and Wasl Art Space announce open call for the  9th Edition of Young Saudi Artists 2024

ATHR Foundation and Wasl Art Space present the 9th edition of Young Saudi Artists (YSA), curated by Basmah Felemban. This year’s theme, “Biting Between One’s Teeth,” explores the personal strength and inner resolve needed for self-discovery, challenging societal expectations and focusing on introspection. Since its inception in 2011, YSA has supported over 200 emerging Saudi and Saudi-based artists, providing them with opportunities to develop and showcase their projects professionally. This edition invites experimental and unconventional expressions, addressing themes like self-perception, societal influences, mental health, and the balance between isolation and exposure.

Ithra Unveils the Seventh Edition of Tanween 2024, Saudi Arabia’s Premier Design Conference

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) announces the return of Tanween 2024, Saudi Arabia’s premier design and creativity conference, from October 31 to November 6 at the Ithra Theater. Themed “Fail Forward,” this seventh edition will explore how designers and artists innovate after overcoming creative challenges. The event will feature panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and immersive experiences, providing a platform for global experts and emerging talents to exchange ideas. Highlights include talks by world-renowned artist Ross Lovegrove, workshops led by Sebastian Errazuriz, and the international exhibit “Behind the Curtains,” in collaboration with Italy’s Isola platform.

Lacy Schutz Appointed as ATHR’s Cultural Assets Director

Athr announces the appointment of Lacy Schutz as the new Cultural Assets Director. With nearly twenty years of experience in the arts, culture, and design sectors in the U.S., Schutz has contributed to institutions like the Clark Art Institute and the Museum of the City of New York. Her recent work at the Shaker Museum elevated it to global prominence through contemporary design. Driven by her commitment to cultural preservation and inspired by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Schutz will lead ATHR’s projects involving museums, libraries, and cultural centres, focusing on transformative opportunities within the Saudi cultural landscape.

Random International joins Athr’s roster of artists

Athr announces the representation of artists Random International, a postdigital art group founded in 2005 by Hannes Koch and Flo Ortkrass. With studios in London and Stockholm, Random International explores the effects of technological advancement on human experience. Known for their experimental approach, the group integrates research and scientific discovery into their work. They channel their collective energy through technological mediums, creating public co-creation experiences that invite personal reflections on consciousness.

Lulua AlYahya joins Athr’s roster of artists

Athr welcomes Lulua AlYahya to its roster of represented artists, with her solo exhibition scheduled for later this year. Born in Washington D.C. and based in Bahrain, AlYahya (b.1998) creates paintings that merge imagery and references from various worlds, crafting open-ended narratives. Her work often explores culturally familiar themes of masculinity, beauty, and the complexities of coming of age. Her protagonists, portrayed in a state of idleness and melancholy, appear in dreamlike, undefined settings, inviting viewers to reflect on both resolved inquiries and moments of confusion.

Dance People Shortlisted for FEDORA – Van Cleef & Arpels Dance Prize

Omar Rajeh and Mia Habis’s new choreographic creation, ‘Dance People’, has been shortlisted for the prestigious FEDORA – Van Cleef & Arpels Dance Prize. ‘Dance People’ is a performance that weaves together the intimate stories of its audience with the creative diversity of its artists. It explores the concept of space and how its distribution shapes relationships, equality, and hierarchy. The interactive performance invites local artists and audience members to actively participate, creating a multidisciplinary experience that critically examines power structures and celebrates diversity.

Emerging Designers Present Furniture Creations at Zwara Exhibition

M7 has launched an exhibition celebrating the conclusion of the fourth Zwara Programme. Open to the public until 18 December 2024, the show highlights unique creations by four participating designers: Stephen Amoyo a multidisciplinary designer, and creator of The Waiting Chair; Abdul Basit a designer of WeaveO, blending traditional Sadu weaving with modern design; Hammam Al Abdulla an interior designer, creator of Nusj, inspired by Marcel Breuer’s Wassily Chair and Galyiah Al Mohannadi an interior and furniture designer, creator of Saraab, an experimental bookcase. Held at M7’s Learning Space, it explores the creative process behind the designs, featuring research notes, sketches, and finished works. This year’s programme included a visit to the Vitra Design Museum and culminated in a 10-month mentorship, supported by Vitra and FROMM. Emerging talents from VCUarts Qatar also contributed, showcasing M7’s dedication to nurturing new voices in design.

Efiɛ Gallery announces the representation of María Magdalena Campos-Pons

Efiɛ Gallery announces its representation of renowned Afro-Cuban artist María Magdalena Campos-Pons, who will present her debut solo exhibition in the Middle East at the gallery in spring 2025. Campos-Pons’s work explores themes of history, memory, gender, and religion, shaping identity through photography, painting, sculpture, film, and performance. Her works are held in prestigious collections including the Whitney Museum, MoMA, and the J. Paul Getty Museum. In 2023, the Brooklyn Museum and Getty organised a major survey of her work, Behold, which will culminate at the Getty in 2025. She also holds the Cornelius Vanderbilt Endowed Chair at Vanderbilt University.

Missak Terzian joins Mark Hachem Gallery’s roster of artists

Missak Terzian’s artworks are now exclusively featured at the Mark Hachem Gallery in Beirut. With galleries in Beirut, Paris, and New York, Mark Hachem is known for its impact on the global art scene, attracting collectors and art enthusiasts alike. Missak Terzian is a Lebanese artist known for his bold, abstract compositions and vibrant use of colour. His work often explores themes of memory, identity, and the human condition, using a dynamic blend of shapes and textures. Terzian has exhibited his art internationally in prominent galleries and art fairs, earning recognition for his distinctive style and contribution to contemporary art. Terzian continues to create works, reflecting his connection to both his heritage and the evolving global art landscape.

Sharjah Museums Authority Opens Registration for SAWA: A Decade of Cross-Cultural Museum Learning Conference

Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) announces the opening of registration for the ‘SAWA: A Decade of Cross-Cultural Museum Learning Conference’, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Arab-German SAWA Museum Studies Program. Held on November 4th-5th, 2024, at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum with live online streaming, the conference will offer panel discussions, workshops, and keynote speeches by global leaders in the museum and cultural sectors. Participants can explore themes like curatorial strategies, international collaboration, and the role of technology in creating inclusive museum experiences. Pre-booking is required due to limited on-site seating.

Forever Is Now Returns This October in Cairo

The fourth edition of ‘Forever Is Now’ will be returning this October under the patronage of Egypt’s Ministries of Culture, Tourism, Antiquities, and Foreign Affairs, and UNESCO. Running from October 24 to November 16, 2024, the exhibition gathers 12 international artists, each contributing to a dialogue transcending time and culture. Held at the Giza Pyramids, the event highlights the intersection of history and modernity, featuring projects by AI artist Hassan Ragab and Saudi video artist Daniah Al Saleh. Supported by key partners such as Alex Bank, Egyptair, and Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the exhibition celebrates art’s enduring connection to the past and future.

Efiɛ Gallery adds Abdoulaye Konaté to its roster of artists

Efiɛ Gallery announces its representation of pioneering Malian artist Abdoulaye Konaté, debuting his first solo exhibition in the Middle East this October. Born in 1953, Konaté creates large-scale textile installations using materials native to Mali, exploring abstract and socio-political themes. His work reflects West African traditions and global issues and is featured in prestigious collections, including the Centre Pompidou, Tate Modern, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Recently exhibited at the Gwangju Biennale and Centre Pompidou, Konaté has earned numerous accolades, including France’s Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society Partners with Dirwaza Curatorial Lab to Launch Arts Apprenticeship Program

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) has launched an annual Arts Apprenticeship program in collaboration with Dirwaza Curatorial Lab, founded by Munira Al Sayegh. Designed for individuals living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and similar chronic conditions, the two-month program will select four participants from across the UAE. These participants will be trained in curatorial thinking and research by the Dirwaza Curatorial Lab team, focusing on skills like ideation, storytelling, and exhibition planning, while raising awareness about MS. The program includes studio visits, exhibition tours, and mentorship, offering personal and professional growth opportunities in the arts. Applications are open until September 30, with selected participants announced on October 21, 2024.

Multispecies Cities: Jameel Library Reading Groups Led by Dr. Neha Vora

The Jameel Library Reading Groups return this autumn with ‘Multispecies Cities,’ led by Dr. Neha Vora. This series invites participants to explore the complex relationships between humans, animals, and other living beings in urban environments through literature, articles, and various media. Sessions are free and open to all, but registration is required due to limited space. Participants are expected to commit to all sessions and engage in respectful, informed discussions. Dr. Vora, a Professor of Anthropology at the American University of Sharjah, specialises in themes such as migration, citizenship, and human-nonhuman encounters.

Fetus Exodus: A Digital Journey Through Mythology by Ahmad Nabil

Jameel Library presents ‘Fetus Exodus’, a digital Library Commission by Ahmad Nabil. This project delves into regional myths and legends through monthly chapters, offering a rich exploration of these narratives. The work features a text addressed to an imagined fetus, the ‘child of myths,’ as it prepares to emerge from incubation. Through this narrative, the fetus is introduced to mythological thought, particularly from the SWANA (South West Asia and North Africa) region. Ahmad Nabil, a Jerusalem-based visual artist, researcher, and educator, focuses on Arab and Islamic mythology, linking these stories to land preservation and collective memory.

August 2024

New Acquisitions and Loans at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi has recently unveiled several significant new acquisitions and loans, many of which are being displayed in the region for the first time. These additions, which emphasise the museum’s commitment to exploring cross-cultural connections, offer visitors a fresh and enriching experience. New acquisitions include a 13th-century Gold and Silver inlaid Brass Candlestick from Iraq, a 15th-century Astrolabe Quadrant from the Maghreb or Syria, and a 19th-century Asante Stool of the Queen Mother from Ghana. Additionally, new loans include masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s Philosopher in Contemplation and the Colossal Statue of Isis from the Musée du Louvre.

‘Casablanca Art School: Postcolonial Avant-Garde’ on Display at Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt

Following its presentations at Tate St Ives and Sharjah Art Foundation, The Casablanca Art School: Platforms and Patterns for a Postcolonial Avant-Garde (1962–1987) is on view at Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt until October 13, 2024. The exhibition, divided into eight chronological and thematic sections, showcases how Casablanca Art School (CAS) artists merged abstract art with African and Amazigh traditions, creating a new vision of Morocco’s visual culture. Featuring over 100 works by 22 CAS artists, including rarely seen archival materials, the exhibition highlights the School’s pivotal role in postcolonial modern art and its connection to Bauhaus ideas.

Qatar Museums and Alwaleed Philanthropies Unite to Support Artisans and Innovate the Creative Economy

Qatar Museums, under Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, and Alwaleed Philanthropies, chaired by HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal, have partnered to advance global creative economy initiatives. This collaboration, signed by Sheikha Al Mayassa and HRH Princess Lamia bint Majed AlSaud, focuses on expanding opportunities for local creatives, artisans, and designers, both locally and internationally. The partnership will foster cross-cultural collaborations, preserve traditional craftsmanship, support vocational education, and share research on the region’s creative economy, contributing to the cultural landscape and circular economy.

Museum of Islamic Art to host ‘Crafting Design Futures’: Qatar-Morocco 2024 Residency Exhibition

This fall, the Museum of Islamic Art will host ‘Crafting Design Futures’, an exhibition featuring nine designers from Qatar and Morocco, celebrating their rich handcrafting traditions. Curated by Gwen Farrelly, this show highlights new works created during the 2024 Design Doha Residency Program. The exhibition, part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, will run from November 30, 2024, to January 7, 2025. The residency facilitates knowledge exchange between Qatar and Morocco, resulting in innovative installations and products. Exhibits include works in textiles, ceramics, and glass, displayed in Gallery 4 and MIA’s courtyard. Bespoke merchandise inspired by the residency will also be available at MIA’s shop.

The Finalists of the Fashion Trust Arabia 2024 Awards Announced

Fashion Trust Arabia announces the finalists for the 2024 Awards, held in Marrakech, Morocco, in partnership with the Years of Culture initiative, celebrating Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture. This initiative promotes global cultural exchange and mutual respect. The FTA 2024 Advisory Board selected 18 designers from the MENA region and four from Spain for the Guest Country category. Finalists will present their work in Marrakech on October 24, 2024, with winners announced that evening.

The finalists for the different awards are:

Ready-to-Wear Award: Kawthar Alhoraish (Saudi Arabia), Nadine Mosallam (Egypt), Naïma Trabelsi (Tunis)

Evening Wear Award: Hamza Guelmouss & Valentin Nicot (Morocco), Tara Babylon (Iraq), Yasmin Mansour (Egypt)

Jewelry Award: Karl Toufic Yazigi (Lebanon), Noura Alserkal (UAE), Sara Naif AlSaud, Noura Abdulaziz Al Saud, Mashael Khalid Al Saud (Saudi Arabia)

Accessories Award: Dara Hamarneh (Jordanian/Palestinian), Jihane Boumediane (Morocco), Reem Hamed (Egypt)

Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award: Mahmood Al Safi (Iraq), Mira Maktabi (Lebanon), Sylwia Nazzal (Palestinian/Jordanian)

Fashion Tech Award: Batoul al-Rashdan (Jordan), Hazem Samy Ali (Egypt), Sarah Salameh (Palestine)

Alserkal Arts Foundation announces open call for research grants

Alserkal Arts Foundation is accepting applications for its third round of Research Grants for the 2025 – 2027 cycle, offering $5,000 to $10,000 in funding for projects to be completed over two years. Open to individuals and collectives working in the arts, humanities, and social sciences, the grants focus on research within South Asia, West Asia, and Africa. The Foundation seeks proposals that embrace intersectional and experimental approaches, blurring traditional disciplinary boundaries. Applicants must be over 21 with at least five years of experience. Submissions, including a CV, portfolio, and research proposal, are due by September 1, 2024.

Abu Dhabi Sovereign Wealth Fund, ADQ, acquires a minority stake in Sotheby’s 

Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, ADQ, has acquired a minority stake in Sotheby’s, investing part of a combined $1 billion infusion into the auction house alongside owner Patrick Drahi. While the exact percentage of ADQ’s stake and its payment remain undisclosed, the Abu Dhabi firm is believed to have contributed the majority of the investment by purchasing newly issued shares. This capital will help reduce Sotheby’s debt and support its growth and innovation plans.

Drahi, who privatised Sotheby’s in 2019 for $3.7 billion, will remain the majority shareholder following his additional capital injection. The investment aligns with ADQ’s strategy to diversify Abu Dhabi’s economy and bolster its cultural sector, which includes major projects like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Despite challenges in the art market and recent downgrades in Sotheby’s credit rating, the auction house continues to expand, launching new initiatives and spaces, such as the recently opened Sotheby’s Maison in Hong Kong.

The Third Line welcomes new artists: Sarah Awad, Bady Dalloul, and Kamran Samimi

The Third Line announces the representation of three upcoming artists: Sarah Awad, Bady Dalloul, and Kamran Samimi.

Sarah Awad, born in 1981 in Pasadena, CA, had her debut solo exhibition with The Third Line in 2022, titled ‘Rainbow Clearance and Other Paintings.’ Her work has been showcased in various solo and group exhibitions worldwide, including the Night Gallery Diane Rosenstein Gallery in Los Angeles, and the Metropolitan Museum of Manila. Awad’s art is held in prestigious collections, such as the Dallas Museum of Art and the Sharjah Art Museum. She currently teaches at UC Irvine.

Bady Dalloul, a French Syrian multimedia artist born in 1986, held his first solo exhibition with The Third Line in 2023, titled ‘A Country Without a Door or Windows.’ His work, which intertwines history, personal narratives, and fiction, has been recognised with several awards, including the Prize for Arab Contemporary Creation. Dalloul’s upcoming solo exhibitions include the Mori Art Museum in Tokyo and the Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon.

Kamran Samimi, whose first solo exhibition with The Third Line, ‘Before Nature (I Am Both Created and Destroyed),’ took place in 2024, and explores the relationship between humanity and nature through natural materials. His work is deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism and Sufi Mysticism and is part of the collections at the Sharjah Art Foundation and the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art.

Qatar Museums announces that its animated folktale series ‘Hazawy’ has won Silver awards in two categories and the Audience Choice Award at the Collision Awards. The series, which received the Audience Choice Award and a Silver Award in the Non-profit category, also earned a Silver Award in Arts & Culture. Produced by the Qatar Museums Digital Production team in 2023 under Sheikha Roda Al Thani, ‘Hazawy’ is a four-part series that brings Qatari folklore to life through striking animation and compelling storytelling. Mohammed Al-Rumaihi, CEO of Qatar Museums, and Sheikha Roda Al Thani expressed pride in the series’ success and its celebration of cultural heritage.

As part of the “Olympism: More Than a Dream” exhibition by the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, Qatar Museums has launched Pierre de Coubertin: Textes Choisis, Volume 1. This book is the first Arabic translation of selected writings by Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. Presented during the Team Qatar reception and the “All for One (and one for all)” debate in Paris, this volume features key essays on the unifying power of sport. The book will be available on In-Q’s website and in Qatar Museums’ gift shops, introducing Arabic-speaking audiences to Olympic values.

The new Los Angeles Clippers basketball stadium will feature artworks inspired by the City of Angels from artists like Refik Anadol, Glenn Kaino, and others. Anadol’s digital painting, the world’s largest A.I. data painting, will utilise real-time game data on a massive LED screen outside the Intuit Dome. Commissioned by art consultant Ruth Berson and a local jury, these works aim to celebrate Inglewood’s community. The venue will also exhibit photographs by Catherine Opie. Anadol highlighted the project’s integration of art and sports, emphasising its role in uniting the community through innovative and immersive experiences.

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), in partnership with the Abdul Latif Alfozan Award for Mosque Architecture, will host the second Islamic Art Conference on November 25-30. Titled ‘In Praise of the Artisan: A Reassessment of Contemporary Islamic Arts & Crafts Practice,’ the event will feature lectures, panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and film screenings. The accompanying exhibition, in collaboration with the al-Sabah Collection, will showcase historical and contemporary Islamic arts and crafts. Highlights include the largest hand-carved stone screen since the Taj Mahal and works by master craftspeople from various countries. The event aims to celebrate and support Islamic arts and crafts globally.

Artists Criticise Royal Academy for Removing Gaza-Related Artworks from Youth Show

Artists for Palestine U.K. published an open letter criticising the Royal Academy of Art’s decision to remove two artworks from the “Young Artists’ Summer Show” due to their depiction of the Israel-Gaza conflict. Signed by over 750 artists and public figures, including Nan Goldin, Brian Eno, and Mike Leigh, the letter condemns the RA for silencing pro-Palestinian expressions. Signatories argue that the RA’s actions support a racist, anti-Palestinian agenda and demand the institution outline reparative measures. The RA defended its decision, citing the need to protect young artists from volatile public discourse. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign U.K. has also urged action against the RA’s decision.

Call for Paper Abstracts for ‘The Future of Museums and Museology Practices in a Changing World’ Conference

Qatar Museums, in collaboration with ICOM Qatar, ICOM, ICOFOM, and ICOM-Arab Regional Alliance, invites paper abstracts for the conference ‘The Future of Museums and Museology Practices in a Changing World,’ to be held December 1-3, 2024, at the National Museum of Qatar. The event will focus on youth engagement, climate action, and diverse narratives in museology, emphasising sustainability, innovation, and education. Themes include museum training, resilience, accessibility, and technology. ICOM members, museology experts, and stakeholders are encouraged to submit proposals by August 15, 2024. ICOM supports global museum standards and cultural heritage protection.

The Cincinnati Art Museum in Ohio and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts acquire works by Mehdi Moutashar

The Cincinnati Art Museum in Ohio, USA, acquired ‘Variations on Seven Letters of the Arabic Alphabet’ (1996) by Mehdi Moutashar through the Alice Bimel Endowment for Asian Art. Additionally, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in Virginia, USA, acquired Mehdi Moutashar’s ‘Deux carrés et un angle droit, Arles’ (1979) as part of its Modern and Contemporary collections. Mehdi Moutashar is a prominent Franco-Iraqi artist known for his minimalist and geometric abstract works. Born in Baghdad and later relocating to France, Moutashar’s art is deeply influenced by Islamic geometric patterns and Western modernist abstraction. His works often explore the interplay of space, form, and perception, creating visually striking compositions that invite contemplation. Moutashar has exhibited internationally and is celebrated for his unique fusion of cultural influences and his contribution to contemporary art.

The Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento acquired ‘Protector’ by Asad Faulwell 

The Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento, California, USA, recently acquired ‘Protector’ (2021) by Asad Faulwell with funds provided by Simon K. Chiu. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VFMA) houses a remarkable permanent collection of nearly 50,000 works of art, featuring extensive collections of Asian, African, and Oceanic art. Asad Faulwell is a contemporary artist known for his intricate mixed-media works that explore themes of history, politics, and identity. His art often incorporates elements of Persian miniatures and Islamic patterns, creating visually complex pieces that delve into narratives of marginalized figures, particularly women involved in the Algerian War of Independence. Faulwell’s work has been exhibited widely in galleries and museums, earning him critical acclaim for his unique approach to storytelling through art.

Winners of the Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award 2024 Announced

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), has announced the winners of The Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award 2024: Sara Farha and Khaled Shalkha. Mentored by Dr. Christianna Bonin from the American University of Sharjah, they founded ‘Datecrete Studio,’ which innovates in material science with a patent-pending cementitious material made from date pits. Their winning project, ‘Datecrete Bee Hotel,’ integrates this sustainable material to attract solitary bees. The structure will remain for three months, with the process documented on film, embodying the award’s vision of sustainability.

Design Doha Hosts Special Closing Event for Arab Design Now

Design Doha, in partnership with DesignWanted Magazine, hosted a special closing event to mark the end of Arab Design Now and the biennial. The public was invited to celebrate and explore the exhibition before it closes on August 5, 2024. The event began with a panel talk moderated by Patrick Abbattista, CEO of DesignWanted. The discussion, “Materials’ Legacy: Products, Spaces, and Culture,” featured insights from Ali Karimi of Civil Architecture and Turki and Abdulrahman Gazzaz of Brick Lab. Following the panel, attendees enjoyed a curated tour of Arab Design Now and a networking event at Profiles Café. Fahad Al Obaidly, Deputy Director of Design Doha, expressed gratitude for the contributions and support, emphasizing the event’s success in advancing regional design conversations. Under the leadership of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar Museums launched Design Doha in February 2024. Curated by Rana Beiruti, Arab Design Now showcases over 70 Arab designers, focusing on sustainability and regional design aesthetics at M7 in Msheireb.

Last Week to Experience Design Doha 

In its final week, Design Doha continues to celebrate creative innovation and design excellence, serving as a landmark biennale for the MENA region. This event offers a dedicated platform for creatives and institutions to showcase their designs and ideas, highlighting the richness of MENA culture and Qatar’s exceptional design environment. The week-long opening event features exhibitions, discussions, and engaging activities that focus on the region’s design scene and its impact on global trends. By convening leading voices in design and presenting cutting-edge technologies and award-winning creations, Design Doha attracts a global audience. This week is the last chance to visit Design Doha and experience its creative innovation in design before it closes on August 5th.

July 2024

Mandy El-Sayegh’s Works Acquired by International Collections

Lawrie Shabibi announces the acquisition of Mandy El-Sayegh’s works by several prestigious international collections. The CC Foundation & Art Center in Shanghai, China, acquired “Burning Square: Evening Blessing” (2023). The Elie Khouri Private Collection in Dubai, UAE, added “Burning Square: Free From” (2023). The Ramzi and Saeda Dalloul Art Foundation (DAF) in Beirut, Lebanon, acquired “Burning Square: Freedom of Goods” (2023). El-Sayegh, born in Selangor, Malaysia, and based in London, explores social, cultural, and political constructs through her immersive works, which are included in prominent collections worldwide.

Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim’s Sculpture Featured at Frieze Sculpture 2024 in London

At Frieze Sculpture 2024 in London’s Regent’s Park, from September 18 to October 27, Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, a pioneering land artist from the UAE, will present two new sculptures: The Form and The Ghaf Tree. The Form explores nature through inspiration drawn from the desert landscape of Khor Fakkan, ancient cave art, and primitive tools. The Ghaf Tree represents resilience and sustainability, reflecting the Ghaf tree’s role as a drought-resistant species vital to the desert ecosystem. Ibrahim’s work highlights a deep connection to the natural world and its enduring symbols. This year’s edition, curated by Fatoş Üstek, explores new dimensions of sculpture through sound, light, performance, and augmented reality. Ibrahim’s piece, along with others, will be displayed in the park’s historic English Gardens, offering visitors a unique interaction with contemporary art. The exhibition coincides with Frieze London and Frieze Masters, running from October 9 to 13.

Dia al-Azzawi Receives Honorary Doctorate from Coventry University

Dia al-Azzawi received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from Coventry University on July 15, 2024, for his pioneering contributions to Arab art. Dia al-Azzawi, born in Baghdad in 1939, is a renowned Iraqi artist and one of the leading figures in modern Arab art. His multidisciplinary works, ranging from painting to sculpture, often reflect themes of cultural identity and historical events. Al-Azzawi’s influential career has spanned over five decades, during which he has exhibited internationally and contributed significantly to the global art scene. In 2021, he received the Dia al-Azzawi Prize for Public Art, and in 2023, the Nile Award for Most Creative Arab Personality. His art uniquely blends images and text, celebrating Arab culture and innovation.

Winners of the Tanween Challenges Announced by Ithra

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has announced the winners of the Tanween Challenges, held from July 15-20. The four winning teams will now advance their concepts to commercial production with support from Albawardi and Am Unique by Namthaja. The winners of the Tanween Challenges announced by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) include: Zahra Mansour, Deema Albuolayan, and Fatima Bukhamseen won the Graphic Design Challenge with their project “Eyes Wide Open;” Mohamed Alghoneimy, Turki Aljandal, Muzun Bin Rubayan, and Mahmood Alkawi won the Pavilion Design Challenge with their project “The Determinal;” Abdullah Albattat, Ahmed Al Aqran, Nader Al Metairi, Nawaf Al Ghamdi, and Mohammed Albayyabi won the Furniture Design Challenge with their project “Bloom” and Ghayda Alnasser, Ebaa Altaweel, and Rawan Alsalem won the Fashion Design Challenge with their project “MRG.”

Raccommodeuses 2, 2022′ by Zoulikha Bouabdellah acquired by the Fonds d’Art Contemporain

Zoulikha Bouabdellah’ ‘Raccommodeuses 2, 2022’ has been acquired by the Fonds d’Art Contemporain, Paris Collections. Zoulikha Bouabdellah (b. 1977, Moscow; lives and works in Casablanca and Montréal-du-Gers) works across various mediums, including collages, photography, films, installations, and texts. A graduate of the Ecole de Paris-Cergy, her art examines social-cultural archetypes and representations, particularly the female body in patriarchal culture. Her series “Raccommodeuses” explores themes of regeneration and expiation, depicting women as caretakers, sewing and restoring wounded male bodies. This work questions the transformation and restoration of these bodies through patient care.

Vivian van Blerk, South African sculptor dies at the age of 53

Vivian van Blerk dies at the young age of 53. Vivian van Blerk is a South African artist known for his distinctive blend of photography and sculpture. Born in 1966, he studied at the Michaelis School of Fine Art in Cape Town. Van Blerk’s work often explores themes of memory, history, and the passage of time. He meticulously constructs miniature architectural models, which he then photographs to create surreal, dreamlike landscapes. Having spent a significant amount of time working in Lebanon, his art reflects a deep engagement with diverse cultural contexts. His work has been exhibited internationally, including in Europe and South Africa. Van Blerk’s unique approach to art challenges perceptions of reality, inviting viewers to delve into intricate, often whimsical worlds crafted with extraordinary attention to detail.

Farhad Moshiri celebrated Iranian contemporary artist passes away at 61

Farhad Moshiri celebrated as Iran’s “most important contemporary artist” and a “true magician,” passed away at 61. Renowned for his mixed-media work in painting, assemblage, and sculpture, Moshiri’s art drew inspiration from both Eastern and Western traditions. The Third Line gallery, which represented him, announced his death, expressing sorrow and recalling their collaboration since 2006. Born in Shiraz in 1963, Moshiri studied at the California Institute of the Arts, where he began experimenting with installations, video art, and painting. His unique style, blending traditional Iranian elements with global pop culture, earned him widespread recognition. Moshiri’s work, often compared to Andy Warhol, transcended cultural boundaries, combining highbrow imagery with American consumer culture and traditional Persian craftsmanship. Moshiri’s works are housed in prestigious collections worldwide, including The British Museum and Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art.

Nadia Melhem Talhouk entrusts Druze artefact to AUB Archives

In 1965, at twenty-two, Nadia Melhem Talhouk married Anis Assaf and received a gift from her uncle Fouad: an ancient will handwritten on a three-meter-long linen fibre paper. The will belonged to Al-Amir al-Sayyid Jamal al-Din ‘Abdalla al-Tanukhi (1417-1479), a revered figure in Druze history. Nadia felt she was its guardian, preserving it through decades and moving it across countries, including during Lebanon’s civil war. This artefact, dating to around 1470, details Druze properties and is authenticated by 17th-century Ottoman authorities. Now, at eighty-one, Nadia is entrusting it to the AUB Archives, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Summer Art Workshops at Tashkeel

Tashkeel unveils its Summer Program offering a diverse array of workshops and camps, catering to artists and designers of all ages. Highlights include renowned Emirati artist Mohammed Al Astad leading the Painting Alla Prima workshop, known for its expressive use of acrylics. Adults can explore art criticism, oil painting, and digital art with Procreate, while teens engage in paint techniques, art robotics, and mural painting. Children aged 7 to 11 enjoy creative workshops fostering self-expression. Tashkeel emphasises accessibility, aiming to enrich cultural experiences through guided tours and collaborations with Sikka Platform and Al Safa Art & Design Library. Limited workshop spots underscore the program’s popularity and commitment to artistic education.

Louvre Abu Dhabi launches Summer ArtLab for children

Louvre Abu Dhabi introduces summer activities designed to engage its community, including the Summer ArtLab and Space Camp scheduled for July. The Summer ArtLab, a four-day program for young art enthusiasts aged 13 to 25, draws inspiration from the museum’s permanent collection, exhibitions, and architecture. Focused on themes of storytelling, identity, and self-expression, participants explore various identities through portraits, reflect on the evolution from figuration to abstraction, and create expressionist self-portraits. They also experiment with body language, exploring forms and movement with diverse materials. The program aims to spark artistic interest, nurture creativity, and offer a memorable artistic journey.

Lina Ghotmeh unveils Bahrain’s Pavilion at Expo Osaka 2025

Paris-based Lina Ghotmeh Architecture unveils Bahrain’s National Pavilion design for Expo Osaka 2025. Led by Bahraini Shepherd Studio under Lina Ghotmeh’s artistic direction, the design celebrates Bahrain’s cultural heritage. Inspired by traditional dhow boats, the pavilion incorporates Bahrain’s boat-building techniques, honouring craftsmanship. It also pays tribute to Japan with wood artistry, highlighting Bahrain and Japan’s bilateral ties. Situated in the Expo’s ‘Empowering Lives’ area overlooking the sea, the pavilion symbolises Bahrain’s maritime legacy. Bahrain aims to display innovation, creativity, and sustainability at the World Expo.

Guggenheim Museum Acquires Five Works by Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York has recently acquired five works by Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim. In honour of outgoing director Richard Armstrong in 2023, “Dancer Contessa” (2020), “Form in Object 1” (2018), “Bearer” (2020), and “Standing Body 4” (2020) were purchased with funds from the Middle Eastern Circle, while “Twin Blossom 2” (2019) received additional funds from Mai Eldib. Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim is a pioneering contemporary artist from the UAE’s 1980s avant-garde scene. His work, inspired by his birthplace of Khorfakkan, often reflects the environment of the Gulf of Oman and the Hajar Mountains. Using materials like primitive tools, bones, and tree parts, Ibrahim creates handmade objects that resemble ancient artifacts. His works on paper feature inscriptions and abstract forms reminiscent of ancient cave drawings, marking time and memory through meditative repetition.

Institute de Monde Arabe Design Prize Open Call

The Institut du Monde Arabe Design Prize aims to spotlight emerging and established designers from the Arab world, showcasing their skills, productive genius, and innovative materials. It offers a contemporary interpretation of the Arab art of living through design. Winners will receive their awards during a ceremony at the Arab World Institute as part of Paris Design Week.

The Institute de Monde Arabe, a French cultural institution, highlights the richness and diversity of Arab cultures through visual arts, performing arts, literature, languages, philosophy, and research. For the first time in France, it introduces the IMA Design Prize to showcase the dynamism and creativity of Arab design. The call for applications for the 2024 prize is now open until July 7th, with categories for emerging talent, established talent, and entrepreneurial talent.

ICD Brookfield Place Announces Tasmeem 2024 Winners

ICD Brookfield Place announces the winners of the third edition of Tasmeem, the annual graphic design and poster show by ICD Brookfield Place Arts. This platform highlights the talents of emerging and established designers. This year’s winners, each receiving AED 1,000, will have their work showcased from Thursday, June 27th to Friday, August 30th.

The theme “Memory Box,” conceptualised by Emirati designer Wafa Al Falahi, challenged participants to create visually captivating representations of cultural treasures. In collaboration with The Third Line Gallery, Egyptian designer Marina Nader Asham will create and sell limited edition prints at The Third Line Shop.

Louvre Abu Dhabi and Richard Mille Announce Art Here 2024 Jury and Shortlisted Artists

The Tasmeem 2024 winners are: Marina Nader Asham, Adnan Arif & Lena Kassicieh, Dana Al Sheyyab, Hala Afsaa, Hessa Naser Alkhanji, Kanaka Raghavan, Mahynour Sawa, Mezna Suwaidan, Sarah Khortbli, Shouq Abdullah Almutairi, Toka Assal, and Waleed Abodouh Mohamed. The selection committee included professionals from architecture, art curation, and design. Louvre Abu Dhabi and Swiss watchmaker Richard Mille have announced the jury and shortlisted artists for the fourth edition of Art Here 2024 and the Richard Mille Art Prize. This annual exhibition supports the region’s dynamic art scene by providing local and regional artists a prominent platform. The expanded jury now includes North Africa alongside the GCC, featuring distinguished members like H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Guilhem André, Simon Njami, Nujoom Alghanem, and Maya Allison. The shortlisted artists are Férielle Doulain-Zouari, Lamya Gargash, Moataz Nasr, Sarah Almehairi, and Nicène Kossentini, Their works will be showcased at Louvre Abu Dhabi from 20 September 2024, competing for the Richard Mille Art Prize and its $60,000 cash award. This year’s theme, “Awakenings,” invites artists to explore openness, beginnings, and possibilities through sculptures or audio-visual installations.

June 2024

Artists Dr. Ahmed Mater and Muhannad Shono Knighted as Chevalier in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres

Artists Dr. Ahmed Mater and Muhannad Shono have been knighted as Chevalier in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for their significant contributions to Saudi culture, contemporary arts, and the global art world. This prestigious honour, also awarded to cultural icons like Egyptian author Naguib Mahfouz and Lebanese singer Fairuz and well as Yemeni novelist Ali al-Muqri and writer Abdelaziz Baraka Sakin. The award was bestowed by French Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Mr. Ludovic Pouille.

Hayy Jameel in Jeddah to Host New Alliance Française Saudi Arabia (AFAS) Centre

Art Jameel announces the establishment of Hayy Jameel in Jeddah as the new home of Alliance Française Saudi Arabia (AFAS), in the presence of key French and Saudi dignitaries. Scheduled to open in September 2024, this new centre will offer enhanced French language courses, cultural programs, fusion cuisine workshops, film screenings, and talks on sustainable practices, promoting cross-cultural dialogue. Hayy Jameel, a cultural hub since December 2021, embodies a vibrant neighborhood spirit, housing diverse artistic disciplines including Hayy Cinema and various creative businesses. The 80-square-meter AFAS space will feature modern classrooms and a lounge-library, providing innovative, interactive learning experiences.

Fundraising Campaign by the Institute du Monde Arabe and Concert for Artists in Gaza

Under the patronage of the Institute du Monde Arab and the Marseille based association Art-cade Galerie des Grands Bains-Douches a fundraising event has been launched in March titled “Together for Artists in Gaza at Risk” . This fundraising campaign aims to support 20 artists by bringing them to France. More recently second initiative has been announced to support the cause, a fundraising concert ‘For the Artist’s of Gaza’, scheduled in Paris on June 26. The fundraising concert will be held in the intimate exhibition space of Point Ephémère, 200, quai de Valmy, Paris 10th. The featured artists include Sama’ Abdulhadi, Union Collective, and DJs Darbak, Ya z an and Ya Hu.

Inauguration of Beirut Art Days: Celebrating Lebanon’s Cultural Resilience

Despite ongoing crises over the past five years, Lebanon’s art and culture scene remains active. The inaugural Beirut Art Days will take place from July 3 to July 6, 2024, spanning the entire country. Galleries, museums, theatres, and cultural venues will offer diverse experiences, including exhibitions, performances, screenings, private collections, lectures, concerts, debates, art tours, and artist talks. With 90 galleries, 110 cultural venues, and 102 museums, Lebanon produces nearly 2,000 events annually. Over 60 art and culture players and 90 locations will participate in Beirut Art Days, showcasing the nation’s vibrant creativity. Beirut Art Days offers free access, inviting everyone to explore and discover new artistic experiences. This event allows art lovers, collectors, professionals, citizens, and tourists to explore Beirut and Lebanon from a fresh perspective.

Qatar Museums and Venice Sign Five-Year Cultural Cooperation Agreement

Qatar Museums and the Municipality of Venice have signed a Protocol of Cooperation to strengthen their cultural and socio-economic ties. This agreement coincides with Qatar Airways resuming direct flights between Doha and Venice on 12 June, and the opening of the Art for Tomorrow conference. The collaboration aims to enhance cultural heritage, knowledge exchange, and business investment in art, preservation, sport, and entertainment. Activities may include exhibitions on Italian-Islamic art, international festival participation, scholarly collaborations, and heritage conservation projects. The protocol, valid until 2029, builds on previous successes, such as exhibitions at the Venice Biennale. Details of future initiatives will be announced.

Fahad Al Obaidly Joins Jury for Arab World Design Award 2024

Fahad Al Obaidly, Deputy Director of Design Doha, will join the jury for the Arab World Design Award 2024, which aims to spotlight emerging and established Arab designers, showcasing innovation and new materials. Design Doha, a Qatar Museums biennial, seeks to elevate MENA design culture and highlight Qatar’s design scene globally. The inaugural edition in February featured exhibitions, events, and programs, attracting international design leaders and enthusiasts. Al Obaidly, a creative strategist with over a decade’s experience, is pivotal in Qatar’s creative sector. He stated, “It’s a privilege to spotlight MENA designers and celebrate emerging talent.” Entries are open until 7 July 2024, with winners announced at Paris Design Week.

ICD Brookfield Place Announces Souq Tasmeem Open Call

ICD Brookfield Place announces Souq Tasmeem, a vibrant market showcasing young designers, makers, and creatives. Taking place from Thursday, 27 June to Saturday, 29 June 2024, this event offers a platform for local artisans to display handcrafted designs, zines, posters, and more. Souq Tasmeem extends the annual Tasmeem graphic design and poster show, enhancing the dialogue around graphic design. This year’s theme, Memory Box, curated by Emirati designer Wafa Al Falahi, explores cultural heritage through folklore, music, and games. Submissions are open until 14 June 2024, for categories including print materials, stationery, and artisanal items.

Tashkeel and Salt Unveil UAE Artists’ Posters at SALT’s New Marsa Al Arab Restaurant

Tashkeel and SALT unveiled a collection of designs by the UAE’s visual artists at a special event in Dubai. Selected from a nationwide open call, 20 posters are now displayed at SALT’s Marsa Al Arab restaurant in the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel. The open call, launched in partnership with Tashkeel, sought captivating designs that matched SALT’s vibrant atmosphere. The winners were chosen for their visual flair and creativity. Tashkeel’s Karam Hoar praised the collaboration, highlighting the quality and creativity of the submissions and the ongoing display’s contribution to the local art scene.

The Boghossian Foundation Launches New International Art Prize

The Boghossian Foundation has launched a new international prize to celebrate artists promoting intercultural dialogue, reflecting its mission to bridge East and West through the arts. The prize, with no age limit, will honour three winners annually in visual arts, design and crafts, and jewellery. Chaired by Jean and Albert Boghossian, the international jury seeks works that foster mutual cultural understanding. The Visual Arts Prize will highlight pieces inspired by cultural dialogue, the Design and Crafts Prize will emphasise traditional Eastern craftsmanship, and the Jewelry Prize will explore modern jewellery inspired by global heritage. The prize includes € 12,000 and an artist residency. Applications open on the 15th of June.

Sharjah Art Foundation Announces Seventh Edition of Sharjah Film Platform Short Film Production Grant

Sharjah Art Foundation invites filmmakers to apply for the seventh Sharjah Film Platform (SFP) Short Film Production Grant. This grant, part of the SFP festival, supports short films pushing contemporary filmmaking boundaries. Films will premiere at a future SFP edition. Open to independent filmmakers globally, the grant covers short films up to 50 minutes. The total fund is 120,000 AED, with amounts and awardees based on need. Apply by 24 June 2024. New this year, an Emirati filmmaker will receive 25,000 AED through a partnership with ADMAF. Applicants must submit a three-minute pitch outlining their film’s vision and originality.

Sharjah Art Foundation Opens Call for 12th Vantage Point Sharjah Photography Exhibition

Sharjah Art Foundation announces the 12th annual Vantage Point Sharjah (VPS) photography exhibition, themed ‘If I Were Another’, inspired by Mahmoud Darwish’s poem. This theme invites photographers to explore diverse identities and histories. Emerging photographers worldwide can apply, submitting portfolios aligned with the theme. Five artists will be selected for a group exhibition at Bait Obaid Al Shamsi from 28 September to 8 December 2024. Selected artists will receive funding, professional support, and mentorship. The deadline is on 24 June 2024.

Sharjah Art Foundation Invites Submissions for Corniche 6 Comic Anthology

Sharjah Art Foundation invites illustrators and comic artists from the GCC to submit pitches for a six-page comic for Corniche, an annual anthology. This publication embraces various genres like biography, sci-fi, fantasy, mythology, and art history. Selected artists will join a three-day creative exchange in Sharjah, with their works published in the anthology. Originating from a 2019 workshop, Corniche fosters local talent and community. Corniche 6 will debut at Focal Point 2024, the Foundation’s art book fair, from 22–24 November. Apply by 30 June 2024.

Qatar Museums Invites GCC Artists for Public Art Open Calls

Qatar Museums’ Annual Intervention open call invites GCC artists to propose site-specific or community-specific public artworks, a concept known as placemaking. Placemaking aims to create environments that enhance community life, fostering a sense of belonging and identity. It transforms ordinary public spaces into vibrant, welcoming areas that encourage social interaction, cultural expression, and engagement. This opportunity is open to mid-career artists residing in the GCC with strong execution skills. Proposals must be fabricated locally and engage the community. Notable past commissions include “Shelters” by Marco Bruno and Michael Perrone, and “Dar Al Tayor” by Bachir Mohamad. The deadline for the submission is 15 July 2024.

Qatar Museums: Call for GCC Artists and Students for Public Art Initiatives

Qatar Museums invites GCC artists to participate in public art open calls, including the Temporary Initiative, which encourages students and alumni to propose temporary public artworks showcasing their creativity. Selected artists will be commissioned to create their proposals, which must meet specific criteria: proposals must meet the checklist, be fabricated locally, and can include sculptures, installations, mosaic tiles, and mixed media. Eligible artists must be over 18 or recent graduates (within the last two years), residing in Qatar with valid permits. The artwork will be installed at Liwan Design Studios and Labs, with a budget of up to 30,000 QAR, and artists will collaborate with a curator. The deadline for the submission is 15 July 2024.

May 2024

Athr Gallery and teamLab collaborate to debut in the Middle East

Athr Gallery, renowned for contemporary art, partners with the Japanese art collective teamLab, marking eight years of collaboration. Athr announces a new venture with teamLab, debuting in the Middle East with the teamLab Borderless museum. Athr will exhibit teamLab’s digital artworks at Beit Zenel in Jeddah’s AlBalad district. This curated selection features poetic and expressive works inspired by Japanese literary arts, distinct from the teamLab Borderless offerings. This partnership will highlight the cultural parallels between Arab and Japanese poetry. The exhibition opens in early June, coinciding with teamLab Borderless’s unveiling, offering free admission and shuttle service between venues.

Open Calls Announced for Sharjah Art Foundation’s Annual Programs in Film, Photography, and Comics

Sharjah Art Foundation has announced open calls for three of its annual programs: film, photography, and comic publication, supporting artists and art practitioners in the UAE, region, and beyond.

Sharjah Film Platform 7 Short Film Production Grant: Open to all independent filmmakers, this grant supports the completion of short films under 50 minutes. A total of 120,000 AED will be distributed among recipients, with an additional 25,000 AED for one Emirati filmmaker through a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation. The deadline is 24 June 2024.

Vantage Point Sharjah 12: Photographers of all genres can apply for this year’s theme, “If I Were Another,” inspired by Mahmoud Darwish’s poem. Applicants must submit a portfolio by 24 June 2024. Five selected artists will exhibit their work from 28 September to 8 December 2024, receiving production funding and professional support.

Corniche 6: GCC-based illustrators and comic artists can pitch a six-page comic for publication. The deadline for pitches is 30 June 2024. Selected artists will join a three-day creative exchange, and their work will be published in an anthology launched at the Focal Point art book fair in November 2024.

Jameel Prize 7 finalists announced

The finalists for the seventh Jameel Prize have been announced, the V&A’s award celebrating contemporary art inspired by Islamic culture, history, and ideas. This edition focuses on moving images and digital media. The finalists include Sadik Kwaish Alfraji, Jawa El Khash, Alia Farid, Ramin Haerizadeh, Rokni Haerizadeh & Hesam Rahmanian, Zahra Malkani, Khandakar Ohida and Marrim Akashi Sani. Selected from over 300 applicants by an international jury, their works will be showcased in the V&A South Kensington exhibition, “Jameel Prize: Moving Images,” opening on 30 November 2024. The winner will receive a £25,000 prize. The exhibition, exploring themes like identity, community, and environmental impact, will tour nationally and internationally after its London run.

Samia Halaby’s Triptych ‘Morning Rain’ leads Bonhams’ Middle Eastern Auction

Samia Halaby’s monumental artwork “Morning Rain” will take centre stage at Bonhams’ Modern & Contemporary Middle Eastern Art Sale on June 5th, estimated at £150,000-300,000. Recognised as a leading abstract painter, Halaby earned a Special Mention at the 2024 Venice Biennale. This triptych, spanning nearly 3 meters wide, captures the essence of a morning rain shower, offering viewers an immersive experience. Additionally, Bonhams will showcase selections from AbdulMagid Breish’s collection, including Louay Kayyali’s “Fisherboy” and works by Dia al-Azzawi and Georges Bahgoury. Breish, an esteemed international banker and art patron, curated his collection through personal connections with prominent artists.

Exploring Morocco’s Legacy: Unveiling Al-Dādasī’s Manuscript

As part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, the team delved into Morocco’s history through the Qatar Digital Library (QDL). They uncovered a significant 17th-century manuscript by scholar Alī ibn Muḥammad al-Dādasī, detailing astronomical timekeeping. Al-Dādasī, from Dades, Atlas Mountains, authored several manuscripts on timekeeping. Sara Al Mohannadi, from the National Committee for Years of Culture, emphasised their collaboration with Qatar National Library to enrich cultural exchange and strengthen Qatar-Morocco relations. QDL, launched in 2014 in partnership with Qatar Foundation and the British Library, offers a vast digital archive of historical documents. QNL’s Executive Director, Tan Huism, praised the initiative’s use of QDL’s resources to support cultural programs.

Tabreed transforms UAE facility into street art

Tabreed, the global leader in district cooling, has turned its UAE facility into a street art stage. Located on Al Maryah Island, the plant serves clients like Cleveland Clinic and Four Seasons with essential cooling services. Inspired by Abu Dhabi’s street art scene, Tabreed’s management proposed the plant as a canvas. Renowned Emirati artist Saggaf Alhashmi’s 3D concept featuring Arabian Oryx and Arabian Sand Gazelle was chosen. Completed ahead of schedule, the mural celebrates the island’s heritage and Tabreed’s cooling technology. Chairman Khaled Al Qubaisi praises the transformation, emphasising Tabreed’s commitment to environmentalism and urban design, positioning it as a leader in district cooling worldwide.

Louvre Abu Dhabi and the National Museum, Sultanate of Oman Continue the Cultural Exchange

Louvre Abu Dhabi and the National Museum, Sultanate of Oman, have signed a new loan agreement, featuring two notable artworks from Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collection on exhibit at the National Museum for a year. This partnership, highlighting a tradition of cultural exchange, includes a Samanid dynasty bowl with Arabic proverbs and Josef Albers’ “Homage to the Square.” The bowl enriches the ‘Splendours of Islam’ gallery, while Albers’ piece is part of ‘Oman and the World,’ reflecting global artistic connections. This collaboration continues their successful history, including the “Gardens of Paradise” exhibition on Iznik ceramics in 2021.

Hoor Al Qasimi is appointed as Artistic Director of the 25th Biennale of Sydney, 2026

Hoor Al Qasimi has been named Artistic Director of the 25th Biennale of Sydney, scheduled for March 7 to June 8, 2026. With a focus on community collaboration and multidisciplinary programming, she aims to amplify diverse voices and perspectives within the vibrant multicultural landscape of Sydney. Al Qasimi, President of the Sharjah Art Foundation, brings over 20 years of experience in curating and promoting experimentation and innovation across various art forms. Her appointment reflects her global influence in the arts, including directing the Sharjah Biennial since 2002 and leading the International Biennial Association.

Yvette Achkar, one of Lebanon’s leading abstract painters has passed away at the age of 96

Yvette Achkar, one of Lebanon’s leading abstract painters has passed away at the age of 96. Born in 1928 in Sao Paolo, Brazil, to Lebanese parents, she ultimately found her artistic home in Lebanon. Despite her initial aspirations in music, her profound connection with painting led her to a unique mastery of oil on canvas. Achkar’s work, characterised by meticulous brushwork and a profound exploration of space, invites viewers into a world of emotional and spiritual depth.

Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Dolce&Gabbana unveil the winners of the Design Award 2024

The Abu Dhabi Music & Art Foundation (ADMAF) and Dolce&Gabbana proudly announce the winners of the ADMAF x Dolce&Gabbana Design Award 2024, celebrating emerging talents in innovative design. Sarah AlMansoori wins in jewellery creations, while Azza Al Tawila di secures the fashion category. Both undergo a transformative 6-month paid internship at Dolce&Gabbana in Milan, with their creations showcased at the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025, blending tradition and innovation. Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis Kanoo expresses admiration for the finalists, emphasising collaboration between the UAE and Italy in nurturing youth and fostering cultural industries. The jury comprised international figures alongside Emirati artists and Dolce&Gabbana representatives.

Museo Nacional del Prado and Colnaghi announce the unveiling and loan of the previously lost Caravaggio masterpiece ‘Ecce Homo’

The Museo Nacional del Prado and Colnaghi announce the nine-month loan of the previously ‘lost’ Caravaggio’s masterpiece, ‘Ecce Homo’, to the Spanish national museum in Madrid. From May 28 to October 2024, the Prado Museum will host a special solo exhibition of this iconic painting, believed to have once been part of Phillip IV of Spain’s private collection. Since its reappearance at an auction in April 2021, the painting has been under Colnaghi’s care, restored by Andrea Cipriani, and scrutinised by experts, affirming its attribution to Caravaggio. This significant discovery, inspiring a swift consensus around its authentication, is accompanied by a comprehensive publication featuring essays by leading experts and bearing testament to the work’s monumental importance. The unveiling of ‘Ecce Homo’ is a testament to its enduring significance in art history.

Christie’s announces its upcoming ‘Modern & Contemporary Art’ auction on its Dubai online platform

Christie’s unveils its edition second of the Dubai online platform, ‘Modern and Contemporary Art – Dubai,’ with bidding running from May 9th to 23rd. Celebrating cross-cultural dialogues, the event showcases modern and contemporary artists from the Middle East and the wider Global South, reflecting the region’s rich diversity. Notably, demand for broader artist representation has expanded the sale to include works from Africa, Latin America, and South Asia. Approximately 90 artworks spanning painting, sculpture, photography, and works on paper from the 1950s to 2020s will be featured. Leading the sale is a rare pre-revolution piece by Monir Shahroudy Farmanfarmaian. Highlights encompass significant works by modern masters and emerging talents from various countries, honouring the rich artistic heritage of the Middle East and North Africa. Additionally, the sale presents works from the Gulf region and beyond, including artists from Colombia, Pakistan, Trinidad, the Republic of Benin, and The Ivory Coast, showcasing shared ideas across borders and diverse artistic experiments.

Frank Stella pioneering abstract painter dies at age 87

Frank Stella, the artist renowned for his minimalist abstract paintings, passed away at 87 due to lymphoma, as confirmed by his wife to the New York Times. His ‘Black Paintings’ in the late 1950s disrupted the dominance of Abstract Expressionism. Stella’s career spanned over six decades, marked by retrospectives at prestigious institutions like MoMA and the Whitney Museum. While he initially adhered to controlled geometric forms, his later works embraced spontaneity, earning both acclaim and critique. Currently, a showcase of his monumental sculptures at Jeffrey Deitch Gallery captures his artistic evolution.

Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Richard Mille Art Here 2024 open call deadline extended

Louvre Abu Dhabi extends the deadline for Art Here 2024 proposals until May 31, 2024, inviting contemporary artists from the GCC and North Africa to participate. Curated by Simon Njami, Art Here 2024 promises a diverse exploration of cultural narratives. Artists can submit proposals online for a chance to showcase their work under the architecture of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. This year’s theme, “Awakenings,” encourages artists to interpret it creatively. The Richard Mille Art Prize, with a grand prize of $60,000, will recognise artists, aligning with the museum’s goal of promoting regional talent. The winner will be announced in December 2024.

ICD Brookfield Place’s Tasmeem open call

ICD Brookfield Place announces the return of Tasmeem, the annual graphic design and poster show highlighting regional talent. The third edition, led by the ICD Brookfield Place Arts program, will run in June 2024, accepting submissions until May 17, 2024, from regional design practitioners, thinkers, type designers, and students. Tasmeem aims to enrich graphic design discourse by providing a platform for emerging and established talents. This year’s theme, ‘Memory Box,’ conceived by Emirati designer Wafa Al Falahi, explores cultural memories through folkloric tales, music, and games. Selected designers will exhibit their work, each receiving AED 1,000, under the guidance of a diverse selection committee.

Qatar Museums participated in the NEXT IN Summit 2024, held from April 24th to 25th, organised by ACCIONA Cultura in Madrid. Esteemed cultural leaders gathered to explore the evolving museum landscape and cultural innovation. José Manuel Entrecanales, ACCIONA’s president and CEO, emphasised culture’s pivotal role in human development, sustainability, and societal prosperity. Qatar Museums delegates, including Sheikha Reem Al Thani, Dr Christian Wacker, Essa Al Mannai, and Dr Alkindi Al Jawabra, contributed to discussions on Qatar’s cultural initiatives. They presented Qatar’s ‘Building a Creative Nation’ plan, emphasising architecture’s integration of emerging artists’ works. Qatar Museums fosters cultural exchange globally, enriching Qatar’s cultural landscape and promoting dialogue and collaboration.

Hunna Art adds Joud Fahmy to their roster of artists

Hunna Art welcomes Joud Fahmy to their representation. Born in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in 1994, Fahmy’s artistic exploration delves into women’s voices and societal dynamics, translating concepts like family and gender into tangible mixed-media sculptures and audio-visual pieces. Bridging traditional and modern, her work aims to transcend societal norms, fostering dialogue and reshaping culture. Fahmy earned her MA in Contemporary Art Practice from the Royal College of Art in 2023. As a former Judo Olympian for Saudi Arabia (2016) and a participant in prestigious programs like the Hayy Learning Programme (2019) and Maan Grant (2020), Fahmy’s diverse experiences enrich her artistic vision. She has exhibited internationally, including at Tate Modern Late and Leighton House Museum (2023), and is set to complete a residency at the Cité Internationale des Arts (Paris) in 2024, solidifying her standing in the art world.

10th Saudi Film Festival Launches at Ithra with a Focus on Science Fiction

The King Abdulaziz World Cultural Center (Ithra) kicks off the 10th annual Saudi Film Festival, running from May 2-9, 2024. This event celebrates a decade of cinema, with a special focus on Science Fiction Cinema. The festival boasts 76 screenings and 53 competing titles vying for 36 prestigious awards. With a revamped competition structure, including Film, Unexecuted Screenplay, and Production Market Projects categories, SFF highlights environmental and artistic achievements through the Golden Palm Awards. Offering professional development workshops, symposiums, and masterclasses, SFF contributes to the growth of Saudi Arabia’s film industry. The festival also honours cinematic pioneers like Abdul Mohsen Al-Nimr, acknowledging his impactful contributions to Gulf cinema.

April 2024

Records for Lebanese artists at Sotheby’s London auction ‘Love Letter to Beirut’ 

Sotheby’s London recently honoured Lebanon’s artistic pioneers in an auction titled ‘Love Letter to Beirut‘ featuring thirty Lebanese artists, alongside others influenced by the country. The event totalled £1,752,092, with many lots surpassing expectations. Aref El Rayess set a record with ‘The World of Petrol,’ selling for £457,200. Helen Khal achieved a record with her abstract canvas for £95,250, and Etel Adnan’s abstract fetched £190,500. Additional artist records were set for Anas Albraehe, Samia Osseiran Junblat, and Willy Aractingi.

Millon Middle East Moderne & Contemporain Auction in Beirut and Paris

Millon presents the second edition of the live auction in collaboration with Mark Hachem Gallery, showcasing Modern & Contemporary Middle-Eastern art. The event will be held at Monty Club on April 25th at 6 PM Beirut time and 5 PM Paris time, featuring artwork from Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Modern Lebanon, and Women artists in Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. With locations in Beirut and Paris, the auction promises a diverse selection of pieces reflecting the cultural tapestry of the Middle East. The highlights in the auction include Shafic Abboud, ‘Fenêtre’, Nadia Saikali, ‘Temps Immobile’, and Louay Kayyali’s ‘The Lady in Red.’

Abu Dhabi Art’s Beyond Emerging Artists exhibit in Venice during Biennale Arte 2024

Abu Dhabi Art presents its Beyond Emerging Artists program, showcasing Almaha Jaralla, Samo Shalaby, and Latifa Saeed at the Venice Biennale from April 16 to May 15. Shalaby displays “What Lies Beneath,” a multimedia installation exploring identity. Saeed’s “Dust Devils” delves into Gulf desert landscapes, highlighting nature’s harmony. Since 2017, the BEA program has nurtured UAE artists with workshops and mentorship, culminating in exhibitions. Curated by Morad Montazami, this iteration marks Abu Dhabi Art’s second Venice appearance, showcasing local talent on a global scale. Jaralla reflects on the region’s history, while Saeed praises local support for artists, echoing Abu Dhabi Art’s commitment to fostering contemporary art.

The Ithra-produced film wins three awards at the Gulf Cinema Festival

Funded and produced by The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), the feature film ‘Hajjan’ swept the Gulf Cinema Festival, winning Best Feature, Best Actor (Omar Alatawi as Matar), and Best Cinematography. Ithra plays a role in Saudi Arabia’s film industry growth, nurturing local talent and fostering cinematic content creation. Through Ithra Film Production, the Kingdom’s indie film scene thrives, both on and off-screen, amplifying its presence globally. ‘Hajjan,’ shot in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, portrays Saudi cultural heritage through a coming-of-age narrative set in the desert, showcasing the talent of Saudi actors and the country’s cinematic potential.

The 10th Istanbul Photo Award announces winner

The 10th Istanbul Photo Awards, an international news photography contest by Anadolu, unveiled its winners. Thirty-two photographers were honoured across ten categories, amidst a pool of over 20,000 submissions. Mohammed Salem of Reuters secured the coveted ‘Photo of the Year’ title with his portrayal of Palestinian grief. The International jury commended the exceptional quality of entries. Noteworthy winners include Mahmud Hams for ‘Story News,’ Luca Bettini for ‘Single Sport,’ and Garry Lotulung for ‘Story Nature and Environment.’

Dubai Design District hosts event with partner Durini Design Association amid Milan Design Week

Dubai Design District, under TECOM Group PJSC, expanded its presence in Italy by hosting its inaugural networking event in Milan, in collaboration with Milano Durini Design Association. Held during Milan Design Week, the gathering unites design luminaries to discuss sector trends and challenges. d3’s partnership with MDD aims to foster cross-cultural insights and collaboration, elevating design excellence. This initiative enhances Dubai’s status as a global design hub, facilitating connections between Italian talent and the MENA region. The event, held at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Milano, signifies d3’s commitment to global creativity and collaboration in the digital age.

Israeli Pavilion remains shut as artist Ruth Patir calls for a ceasefire

Amidst the opening of the 60th Venice Biennale, the Israel Pavilion remains closed as artist Ruth Patir and curators opt to withhold the exhibition until a ceasefire and hostage release agreement is achieved. Patir, chosen before October 7, aligns with pro-Palestine voices urging a boycott. Her Instagram statement emphasises solidarity, denouncing cultural boycotts yet highlighting the urgency for peace.

Wadi AlFann showcase during La Biennale di Venezia

During the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, Wadi AlFann presents “Journeys in Land Art, Towards Wadi AlFann, AlUla,” showcasing its inaugural five commissioned artists. Renderings, drawings, and interviews offer a glimpse into Wadi AlFann’s future as a global hub for contemporary art, set in the vast landscape of AlUla, Saudi Arabia. The exhibited works envision large-scale, site-specific commissions, drawing inspiration from AlUla’s topography and heritage. Artists like Ahmed Mater and James Turrell reveal their plans for immersive installations, while Manal AlDowayan’s participatory workshops with AlUla communities inspire drawings reflecting local life. Wadi AlFann Publications also launches artists’ books: Oasis of Stories and The Desert Field Guide. Saudi artist Manal AlDowayan joins US artist Mark Dion to discuss the book as work of art, how participation is core to their practice and what their artists’ books tell us about the desert. These pieces, alongside artist interviews, provide a preview of Wadi AlFann’s artistic journey.

Ithra showcases two curated exhibitions during Milan Design Week

Ithra partners with Isola to feature two curated exhibitions at Milan Design Week, April 16 – 21. “Routes to Roots,” born from Tanween, blends heritage and modernity, showcasing sustainable designs. It’s part of Isola’s Design Festival, hosting global designers and talks. “Iwan,” a foldable pavilion, merges Islamic design with modern architecture, created by Saudi artists. A 3-D printed version will be exhibited alongside “Routes to Roots” in Milan’s Galleria Giovanni Bonelli. Both projects emphasise eco-conscious design, using biomaterials and waste. Noura Alzamil of Ithra highlights the platform’s role in promoting Saudi design globally. Isola’s CEO, Gabriele Cavallaro, expresses pride in their partnership, aiming to nurture talent and conscious design.

Launch of Emirati artist Abdullah Al Saadi’s monograph in Venice

The Sharjah Art Foundation launches Emirati artist Abdullah Al Saadi’s monograph, “خرج ولم يعد/Sometimes You Have To Go a Long Way to Come Back A Short Distance,” co-published by Sharjah Art Foundation and Kaph Books in Venice. The book celebrates movement and travel as creative methodologies and ritual practices for Al Saadi, exploring the reciprocal impact between the artist and the landscape. Selected to represent the UAE at the 60th Venice Art Biennale, Al Saadi will unveil a solo exhibition curated by Tarek Abou El Fetouh, Director of Performance and Senior Curator at Sharjah Art Foundation.

Open call at the IMA’s 12e edition of the Prix de la Littérature Arabe

Established in 2013 by the Jean-Luc Lagardère Foundation and the Arab World Institute, the Arab Literature Prize honours literary works from the Arab world. Endowed with €10,000, the prize promotes the work of a writer from the Arab world, author of a novel or collection of short stories written in Arabic and translated into French or directly written in French, and published by a publishing house. The call for submissions for the 12th edition of the Arab Literature Prize is open until June 30, 2024. Authors of works published between September 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, are eligible to apply.

Fathi Hassan added to Richard Saltoun Gallery’s roster of artists

Richard Saltoun Gallery announces its representation of Fathi Hassan, a Nubian-Egyptian artist. Born in Cairo and displaced by the Aswan High Dam construction in 1952, Hassan gained artistic prominence in Italy. He became the first African and Arab artist showcased at the Venice Biennale in 1988. Now based in Edinburgh since 2018, Hassan’s work reflects his personal history of displacement, exploring themes of lost languages and colonial domination. His upcoming solo exhibition, “I Can See you Smiling Fatma,” at Richard Saltoun Gallery London, showcases his artistic journey from the early 2000s to today, encompassing painting, drawing, collage, and installation.

BIPOD: Celebrating 20 Years of Dance Innovation in Beirut

BIPOD, the Beirut International Platform of Dance, celebrates two decades of contemporary dance during its 20th anniversary from April 16th to April 21st, 2024. Set against Beirut’s vibrant backdrop, the festival epitomises a heritage of cultural exchange and artistic innovation, themed “To do. To share.” Founded by Omar Rajeh, BIPOD pioneers not only in Lebanon but globally, introducing the country’s first international dance festival and establishing Beirut as a cultural hub. Through Maqamat, BIPOD’s driving force, perceptions of the performing arts scene evolve. The 2024 edition unveils a fresh format, featuring immersive performances in unconventional spaces, promising an enriching experience for audiences worldwide.

The Tbilisi Art Fair inaugurates its 4th edition

The 4th edition of the Tbilisi Art Fair (TAF) unfolds from April 11th to April 14th, showcasing a dialogue where East meets West. TAF illuminates material-led processes, revealing artists’ journeys and shaping visions into reality. Embracing tradition and innovation, TAF 2024 blurs boundaries between history and technology. Participating artists explore authenticity and imperfection, inviting viewers to reflect. With over 20 countries represented, TAF presents dynamic contemporary artists and galleries, notably from Georgia. Special exhibitions curated by Irena Popiashvili and others explore new beginnings and textile politics. Henrik Vibskov joins, enriching the tapestry of creativity. TAF Conversations and VIP Program offer immersive experiences for art enthusiasts.

Institut de Monde Arabe announces an open call for the 2024 Design Prize

The Institut du Monde Arabe has opened applications for its 2024 Arab World Design Award, resonating with the “Arabofuturs” exhibition, featuring categories for emerging talent, established talent, and entrepreneurial talent. The IMA Design Award aims to showcase emerging and established Arab designers, highlighting craftsmanship and innovation in material creation. They offer a contemporary interpretation of the Arab way of life through design. Winners will be honoured at the Arab World Institute during Paris Design Week. The Arab World Institute, a French cultural institution, illuminates Arab cultures in their richness and diversity. It explores various fields like visual arts, performing arts, literature, languages, philosophy, and research. By launching the first “Arab World Institute Design Award,” it seeks to amplify the dynamism and creativity of Arab design practices.

AlUla to showcase at Milan Design Week

Design Space AlUla unveils recent design endeavours at Milan Design Week’s Mediateca Santa Teresa, Brera from April 14-21, 2024. Featuring works from AlUla, an oasis city with design ventures, the exhibition showcases projects from Madrasat Addeera Editions and AlUla Design Residency. From Dr Zahrah Alghamdi’s leather “Magic Pillars” to TAKK’s clay “Seating Dune,” each piece encapsulates AlUla’s essence. TECHNOCrafts’ “Living Pots” emulate AlUla’s ecosystem sustainability. Meanwhile, AlUla Design Residency presents diverse creations, from Leo Orta’s geological-inspired benches to Raw Materials’ historical artefacts. Architectural innovations like Leen Ajlan’s “Takki” and Hall Haus’ “Haus Dari” redefine traditional spaces. Designed by CLOUD and Sabine Marcelis, the exhibition space mirrors AlUla’s cultural richness, offering a glimpse into its creative evolution.

Italian designer and architect Gaetano Pesce dies at age 84

Italian designer and architect Gaetano Pesce, aged 84, has passed away, confirmed via an Instagram post from his studio. Pesce revolutionised art, design, and architecture over six decades. Despite health challenges, especially in recent times, Pesce remained optimistic, playful, and curious. Born in La Spezia in 1939, Pesce studied architecture in Venice, later teaching in Strasbourg, Milan, Hong Kong, Sao Paulo, and New York. His diverse projects worldwide emphasised modernism’s capacity to interpret the contemporary world while celebrating individuality. Since 1962, Pesce’s industrial design career saw him creating iconic pieces for industry giants like B&B Italia, Vitra, and Cassina. His notable designs include the Up armchair and vivid resin-dipped Come Stai? chairs. His works are featured in over 30 museum collections worldwide and have earned him numerous accolades, including the Chrysler Award for Innovation and Design.

Sharjah Art Foundation Announces Sharjah Biennial 16 Initial Artist List and Curatorial Framework

The Sharjah Art Foundation announces the initial artist lineup for the sixteenth Sharjah Biennial (SB16), curated by a diverse team including Alia Swastika, Amal Khalaf, Megan Tamati-Quennell, Natasha Ginwala, and Zeynep Öz. Their curatorial frameworks, in dialogue with the Biennial’s 30-year history, emphasise hybrid methodologies such as residencies, discussions, and deep listening to amplify Sharjah’s context. Projects explore diverse sources of knowledge, cross-cultural alliances, and communal learning through weaving, translating, and performing. The curators reflect on carrying home, ancestors, and political formations, focusing on tenderness as a gesture of care and alliance building.   Themes relating to power dynamics, poetics versus politics, and women’s spiritual knowledge in shaping humanity will be on display. From February 6 to June 15, 2025, SB16 will activate venues across Sharjah City, Al Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and other locations in the Emirate of Sharjah. The featured artists include Adelita Husni-Bey, Akinbode Akinbiyi, Akira Ikezoe, Alia Farid, Brian Martin, Cécile B. Evans, Dian Suci Rahmawati, Ipeh Nur, Restu Ratnaningtyas, Fatma Belkıs, Hellen Ascoli, Heman Chong, Joe Namy, Jorge González, Kaloki Nyamai, Kapulani Landgraf, Kate Newby, Mahmoud Khaled, Michael Parekōwhai, Mila Turajlić, Mónica de Miranda, Pallavi Paul, Pratchaya Phinthong, Rajni Perera, Rossella Biscotti, Saffronn Te Ratana, Serapis Maritime, Shivanjani Lal, Stephanie Comilang, Steven Yazzie, Womanifesto, Ximena Garrido-Lecca, and Yhonnie Scarce.

American artist Richard Serra dies at the age of 85

Artist Richard Serra, known for pushing the limits of sculpture, passed away at 85 in his New York home. His colossal curved steel installations transformed spaces and evoked physical reactions in viewers. Born in 1939 in San Francisco, Serra drew inspiration from his father’s shipyard work and embraced art after a prank-filled stint at Yale. His journey led him to redefine art’s relationship with viewers, notably through controversial urban sculptures. Despite initial resistance, his monumental steelworks gained acclaim globally, showcasing his enduring influence until his passing. Serra’s legacy as a leading American sculptor endures, defying digital trends with his tangible, weighty creations.

Qatar Museums’ film wins Guirlande D’Honneur 2024 Award from the International Federation of Sports Cinema and Television

March 2024

Lawrie Shabibi Gallery announces the representation of artist Mandy El-Sayegh

Lawrie Shabibi announces that it will be representing the artist Mandy El-Sayegh, adding her to the gallery roster. Currently, El-Sayegh’s debut solo exhibition in Dubai, “A rose is a rose is a rose is a rose,” curated by Sara Raza, is showcased until April 4, 2024. Born in 1985 in Selangor, Malaysia, El-Sayegh is of Palestinian and Chinese descent. Her diverse practice, encompassing drawing, collage, painting, sound, performance, and installation, transforms gallery spaces into immersive experiences, mirroring her studio’s ambience. Inspired by philosophy and science, she reconstructs fragmented information to create new narratives, reflecting punk’s DIY ethos. Her layered artworks, featuring magazine cutouts, maps, and texts, explore themes of identity and order breakdown. El-Sayegh’s creations have been showcased worldwide and are part of prestigious institutional collections.

The Sultanate of Oman presents the artistic team at the Venice Biennale Arte 2024

The Sultanate of Oman unveils its second national Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. Titled “Malath-Haven,” the exhibition will be on display from April 20 to November 24, 2024. Curated by artist and gallerist Alia Al Farsi, the showcase features new works by prominent Omani contemporary artists Ali Al Jabri, Essa Al Mufarji, Sarah Al Olaqi, Adham Al Farsi, and Alia Al Farsi. Reflecting the Biennale’s theme “Foreigners everywhere,” the diverse lineup captures Oman’s multicultural legacy. Alia Al Farsi, the curator, praised the artists’ impactful contributions to Oman’s contemporary art scene.

Sharjah Art Foundation signs Memorandum of Understanding  with M+ in Hong Kong

Sharjah Art Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with M+ Hong Kong during the Hong Kong International Cultural Summit, hosted by the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA). The MOU signals a long-term partnership between the two organisations.  M+, Asia’s pioneering museum of contemporary visual culture, is established under WKCDA, Hong Kong’s cultural landmark and a global cultural project. The MOU signals a long-term partnership between the two organisations, aimed at fostering contemporary art production and presentation. Sheikha Nawar Al Qassimi, Vice President of Sharjah Art Foundation, expressed enthusiasm, highlighting their dedication to enhancing cultural exchange. Their collaboration includes showcasing The Peacock’s Graveyard by Amar Kanwar, which premiered at Sharjah Biennial 15 and is currently exhibited at M+.

‘Guerrilla’ Palestinian Art Festival at the Barbican

Pro-Palestine activists gathered at London’s Barbican Centre on March 16 for “Let Us Speak,” a guerrilla festival showcasing Palestinian art. This followed withdrawals from the “Unravel” exhibition due to alleged censorship of Indian writer Pankaj Mishra. Organised by Culture Workers Against Genocide (CWAG) and others, the protest featured banners like “Stop Cultural Genocide” and included dance, poetry, crafts, and a pop-up radio station. CWAG distributed letters demanding the Barbican feature Palestinian artists without censorship. Several artists, including Mounira al Solh, requested their works removed. The Barbican defended its actions, aligning with recent protests globally supporting Palestine in cultural spaces.

Qatar Museum exhibition in Venice ‘Your Ghosts Are Mine: Expanded Cinemas, Amplified Voices’

Qatar Museums unveils ‘Your Ghosts Are Mine: Expanded Cinemas, Amplified Voices,’ an exhibition coinciding with the 60th International Art Exhibition at the Venice Biennale. Showcasing filmmakers and video artists from the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, it explores themes of community, memory, and resistance to gender-based violence. Curated by Matthieu Orléan with the collaboration of Majid Al-Remaihi and Virgile Alexandre, the exhibition spans ten galleries, featuring films and video works from diverse artists, enriching cultural understanding. The exhibition aligns with Qatar’s mission to foster cross-cultural dialogue and empower emerging talents. On view from April 19 until November 24, it accompanies other Qatar Museums initiatives during the Venice Biennale, reinforcing the country’s commitment to artistic exchange and collaboration on a global stage.

National Pavilion of Lebanon to present “A Dance with her Myth” a multimedia installation by Mounira Al Solh at the Venice Biennale Arte 2024

In a press conference held at the National Museum of Beirut, prominent figures in the Arts and Culture scene gathered as Nada Ghandour, the commissioner and curator of the Pavilion of Lebanon, announced the theme for the 60th International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. Under the Ministry of Culture’s auspices and organised by the Lebanese Visual Art Association (LVAA), the Pavilion will showcase the multimedia installation titled “A Dance with her Myth” by Mounira Al Solh. The installation, spanning 180 square meters at the Arsenale, invites visitors on a journey of exploration into the Phoenician mythos and its relevance to contemporary gender dynamics. Through her creative process of blending allegorical narrative with a documentary approach, Al Solh reinterprets the myth of Europa, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for equality. Her work not only pays homage to Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage but also serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Lebanese art amidst challenging times. Designed by architect Karim Bekdache, the immersive scenography further enhances the visitor’s experience, fostering dialogue and reflection on themes of emancipation and cultural identity.

 

National Pavilion of Saudi Arabia to present ‘Shifting Sands: A Battle Song ‘by Manal AlDowayan at the Venice Biennale Arte 2024

The National Pavilion of Saudi Arabia at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia will feature “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song,” a multimedia installation by Saudi artist Manal AlDowayan, reflecting on the changing roles of women in Saudi society. AlDowayan conducted workshops across Saudi Arabia, including in Al Khobar, Jeddah, and Riyadh, where over 1,000 women contributed to her project. Participants engaged in group singing sessions and explored concepts of visibility and invisibility in global media. AlDowayan aimed to empower their voices and perspectives, incorporating their recorded singing, texts, and drawings into the installation. Returning to her community, AlDowayan questioned the history and transformation necessary for her artwork. “Shifting Sands: A Battle Song” calls for solidarity among Saudi women, urging ownership of their identity amidst historical narratives.

 

ADMAF announces the finalists of the ADMAF x Dolce&Gabbana Design Award 2024

The Abu Dhabi Music & Art Foundation (ADMAF) and luxury fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana unveil the finalists of the ADMAF x Dolce & Gabbana Design Award 2024. This prize, open to current and recent university graduates from the UAE, aims to foster the talents of emerging creatives while honouring their cultural heritage through design. Azza Rashed Al Suwaidi, Maryam Omar Bin Ghaleb Alfalasi, and Muna Saqer AlMatrooshi were selected in the fashion category, while Sarah AlMansoori, Muhra Darwish AlBlooshi, and Alia Alzaabi selected in in the jewellery category. Winners will embark on a transformative internship in Italy to develop their designs, culminating in a showcase at the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025. Personalities like Stefano Galli of Dolce & Gabbana and Asma Al Fahim, Chairwoman of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, will join a jury, including Emirati artists Azza al Qubaisi, Ahmad Al Areef Al Dhaheri, and Sultan al Darmaki.

Modern Arab Art exhibition upcoming at the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris

The Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris unveils “Arab Presence: Modern Art and Decolonisation, Paris 1908-1988” from April 5 to August 25, 2024. The exhibition delves into the evolution of Modern Arab art, exploring the significant contributions of Arab artists in Paris amid France’s decolonisation. Showcasing over 200 works by nearly 130 artists, including Mahmoud Saïd and Marwan Kassab Bachi, it sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Modern art history. The exhibition, divided into four sections, chronicles Arab cultural enlightenment, responses to political challenges, and Arab immigration to France. In today’s climate of rising racism and Islamophobia, “Arab Presence” serves as a timely testament to shared histories and cultural resilience.

Hayy Jameel unveils 14 nights of art, film & community for Ramadan In Jeddah

Art Jameel announces its inaugural Ramadan Nights at Hayy Jameel, Jeddah’s hub for the arts (March 13 – April 4, 2024). With a diverse lineup celebrating community, culture, and wellness, the event offers workshops, talks, film screenings, pop-up eateries, and shopping across 14 nights with over 30 collaborators. Hayy Cinema presents local and international films post-iftar till midnight. Hayy Markets feature Jeddah-based artisans, designers, and more. The program includes interactive workshops, storytelling, games, wellness sessions, and opportunities to explore the current exhibition ‘At the Edge of Land’ until April 16, 2024.

Tasweer Photo Festival open call for the 2024 Tasweer Project and Single Image Awards

The Fourth Tasweer Awards Cycle, along with the 2024 Tasweer Project and Single Image Awards Open Call, runs from March 13 to May 5, 2024, as announced by Tasweer Photo Festival. This photography competition aims to uplift and showcase the diverse talents of photographers aged 18 and above residing in Western Asia and North Africa. Khalifa Ahmad Al Obaidli, Director of Tasweer, emphasised their commitment to empowering regional photographers, providing them with support, recognition, and opportunities for growth. The Tasweer Photo Festival serves as a platform for celebrating visual narratives and contributing to the evolving tapestry of artistic expression globally.

Interactive public art installations by regional artists at Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue presented three art installations by Dima Srouji, Muhannad Shono and Nailini Malani. Palestinian artist Dima Srouji’s immersive exhibit, “This Is Not Your Grave,” curated by Zoé Whitely, reflects on Palestinian resilience amidst conflict. Muhannad Shono’s “The Forgotten Place” showcases nature’s adaptability to urban landscapes, using condensate from AC units to irrigate a garden. Nalini Malani’s “Can You Hear Me?” exhibition which took place only during Art Week confronted social injustice through a nine-channel video installation and outdoor screenings.

 

Artists and curators are urging for the exclusion of Israel from the Venice Biennale.

A group named Art Not Genocide Alliance demands Israel’s exclusion from the Venice Biennale due to its atrocities against Palestinians. The petition has 12,000+ signatories. ANGA, comprising artists and cultural workers, criticises the Biennale’s silence on Israel’s actions, contrasting it with support for Ukraine. They cite Gaza’s high death toll and apartheid-era bans to support their stance. ANGA accuses Israel of promoting genocidal policies through its planned exhibition. Notable signatories include Adam Broomberg and Nan Goldin. The Palestine Museum’s rejected proposal will still be exhibited. The museum criticises Italy’s non-recognition of Palestine and condemns Israel’s exhibition amid the Gaza crisis, advocating for a Biennale boycott.

 

Sound Art Exhibition presented by Rizk Art Initiative documenting the effects of conflict on people & place

Rizq Art Initiative in Abu Dhabi, founded by Shafeena Yusuff Ali, debuted its second exhibition ‘Listening for Traces: Conflict, Sound & Memory’ curated by Dr Cathy Lane, Professor of Sound Arts at the University of the Arts London. Showcasing works by world-renowned sound artists, the exhibition explores the lasting impact of conflict on people, places, languages, and relationships. From February 23 to March 20, 2024, the exhibition at Rizq Art Gallery features films, installations, and performances diving into the complexities of conflict through sound. Artists from diverse backgrounds contribute, offering poignant reflections on historical wounds and the reverberating echoes of conflict in today’s world.

 

Tashkeel Announces Cohort for 2024 Critical Practice Programme

Tashkeel, a cultural incubator in the UAE, announces its 2024 cohort for the ninth annual Critical Practice Programme (CPP). Tashkeel’s CPP cohort for 2024 includes Moza Al Falasi, Ranim Al Halaky, Hamad Al Muzaini, Noura Alserkal and Muhummad Shamin Sahrum. This year-long initiative supports emerging visual artists in refining skills, pushing creative boundaries, and bringing new work to fruition. Participants from diverse backgrounds like architecture and typography will explore critical inquiries and expand their practices. Karam Hoar, Marketing & Communications Manager, highlights the rigorous selection process, underscoring CPP’s role in shaping a dynamic generation of visual creatives. The program offers artists time, space, facilities, and collaborative opportunities, culminating in research, production, and exhibition under mentorship. Tashkeel’s CPP fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, empowering artists to address pressing societal and environmental issues and contributing to the cultural landscape.

Tirazain, a new Palestinian embroidery online archive

Tirazain, a digital archive and library dedicated to preserving Palestinian embroidery (Tatreez), unites a global community spanning the UAE, the U.S., Europe, and beyond. Honouring Palestinian heritage, it fosters cultural pride, resilience, and belonging across geographical borders. From New York to Melbourne, Tirazain nurtures a global community eager to immerse themselves in Palestinian embroidery. Tirazain Designs are used worldwide, fostering bonds and a sense of belonging rooted in shared interests. Founder Zain Masri emphasises Tirazain’s mission to empower individuals to celebrate Palestinian heritage through art, bridging young Palestinians to their cultural identity. Recognised by UNESCO, Tirazain embodies collective action for its preservation & socio-economic development within Palestine.

February 2024

Art Dubai’s new Dubai public art commission unveiled 

At Art Dubai 2023, five UAE-based artists emerged as finalists from over 250 applicants vying to create a permanent public artwork for Dubai Culture’s initiative in Al Hudaiba. Afra Al Dhaheri, Shaikha Al Mazrou, Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, Asma Belhamar, and Khalid Albanna proposed a collaborative piece titled ‘Union of Artists’. Representing unity and collaboration, the sculpture, now displayed in Al Hudaiba park, blends their diverse backgrounds and creative visions. Each artist contributed distinct elements: scale from Albanna, marble effect from Al Dhaheri, surface patterns from Ibrahim, architectural elements from Belhamar, and tension exploration from Al Mazrou. This collaborative effort, commissioned by Dubai Culture and Art Dubai, symbolises the UAE’s unity and enriches its cultural landscape.

Simone Fattal awarded the 2024 Berlin Grand Art Prize

The 2024 Grand Berlin Art Prize goes to Damascus born artist Simone Fattal, awarded by the Akademie der Künste on March 18, 2024, at Pariser Platz. The €15,000 prize rotates among the Akademie’s sections, with a jury comprising of Monica Bonvicini, Karin Sander, and Wolfgang Tillmans. Established in 1948 by the Berlin Senate, the Berlin Art Prize commemorates the March Revolution of 1848, awarded by the Akademie der Künste since 1971. In the jury’s statement, Wolfgang Tillmans wrote: “Simone Fattal once stated: “‘Every person has to start his or her own journey to knowledge and then make a decision.’ She not only has herself embark on this journey, but invites us all to accompany her in her exploration of inner-human equilibrium and the balance between the tangible and the imaginable. Her practice bears witness to the enduring power of storytelling and the capacity of creativity, for humanity and community. What characterises Fattal is a profound humanism, an urgent call to engage with the present through history and with history through the present.”

Qatar Museums presents panel discussions and keynote speakers in the first edition of the Design Doha Forum

Qatar Museums presents the Design Doha Forum (DDF), an event within Design Doha, exploring design’s impact on diverse aspects of life. Curated by Dr. Jelena Trkulja, the forum aims to position Doha’s design sector globally, fostering discussions on urban inclusivity and cultural preservation. Running from February 24th to 28th, 2024, DDF features sessions like “Crafting Futures” and “The Power of Design,” highlighting themes of heritage innovation and societal change. Renowned speakers delve into topics such as contemporary Arab design and the role of museums in design. Through engaging discussions, DDF offers insights into the evolving design landscape and its societal implications.

The Kingdom of Morocco is named as Qatar’s 2024 Years of Culture Partner

Years of Culture, Qatar’s initiative fostering cultural exchanges, designates the Kingdom of Morocco as its 2024 partner. Over 80 events will unfold in both nations, aiming to ignite exploration and connection through social development, heritage, creative industries, and innovation. Diplomatic ties between Qatar and Morocco since 1972 demonstrate the countries’ shared growth. Sheikha Al Mayassa emphasises the deep ties and cultural heritage exploration. Adel El Fakir highlights the event’s significance in showcasing Morocco’s rich culture. Launched in 2012, Years of Culture promotes cultural interactions through exhibitions, festivals, and educational partnerships. The Photography Journey and Design Doha biennial will feature collaborations, enriching the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture.

Design Space AlUla, the first permanent gallery space dedicated to showcasing designinitiatives across AlUla opens

Design Space AlUla, situated in AlJadidah Arts District, launches as a hub for showcasing AlUla’s diverse design endeavours. It features exhibition, workshop, and archive spaces, fostering collaboration among design professionals and enthusiasts. Sara Ghani curates its inaugural exhibition, Mawrid: Celebrating Inspired Design, exploring design principles through AlUla’s landscape. The contemporary corten steel and glass building, designed by Giò Forma Studio, pays homage to AlJadidah’s breezeblock architecture. The exhibition includes projects like Maraya by Giò Forma Studio/Black Engineering and Roth Architecture’s Azulik Eco Resort. Design Space AlUla aims to fuel the design economy, champion sustainability, and preserve AlUla’s heritage. Its launch program includes keynote presentations, workshops, and design tours, enriching AlUla Arts Festival.

Qatar Museums Announces Leadership Appointments

Qatar Museums announces key leadership changes, appointing Mohammed Al-Rumaihi as CEO after his successful tenure as Acting CEO since July 2023. Sheikha Amna bint Abdulaziz Al Thani, previously Deputy CEO, is now Chief of Museum and Heritage Development, overseeing various museum projects. Dr. Julia Gonnella is appointed Director of the Lusail Museum, focusing on Orientalist art. Sheikh Abdulaziz H. Al Thani becomes Director of the National Museum of Qatar, and Shaika Nasser Al-Nassr is promoted to Director of the Museum of Islamic Art. These appointments aim to advance Qatar Museums’ mission under the guidance of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa. Mohammed Al-Rumaihi emphasises the organisation’s continued growth and commitment to cultural development.

Talk at NYUAD: Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia; Glimpses of Abdullah Al Saadi’s solo exhibition at the National Pavilion UAE – La Biennale Di Venezia

A dialogue featuring artist Abdullah Al Saadi and curator Tarek Abou El Fetouh, moderated by NYUAD Professor Salwa Mikdadi takes place on the 15th of February at New York University Abu Dhabi, Humanities Building, Room A6-001 from 6:30 – 8:30 PM. The focus of the dialogue is on Al Saadi’s multifaceted artistic journey, leading to his upcoming solo exhibition representing the UAE at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. Al Saadi, pivotal in UAE’s contemporary art scene, explores various mediums including painting, sculpture, and performance, influenced by the UAE’s landscape and his heritage. Collaborating with curator Abou El Fetouh, the exhibition titled ‘Abdullah Al Saadi: Sites of Memory, Sites of Amnesia’ delves into his creative process, reminiscent of ancient Arab poetic practices. Conducted in Arabic with English translation, the discussion will be available for streaming. The event, hosted by Al Mawrid Arab Center for the Study of Art, contributes to the interdisciplinary study of Arab visual arts through research, conferences, and a unique digital archive, fostering scholarly resources and public engagement.

Click here to register for the talk

Bassam Freiha Art Foundation to open in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District

On March 4, 2024, the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation (BFAF) will open in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District, spearheaded by philanthropist H.E. Bassam Freiha. It’s the district’s sole private art institution, aiming to spotlight global art collections, including rare pieces from local and international private collections. The inaugural exhibition, “Echoes of the Orient,” curated by BFAF’s Michaela Watrelot, juxtaposes Orientalist artworks with contemporary Arab pieces, fostering dialogue on cultural perceptions. Additionally, a concurrent exhibit, “Reclaiming Visions,” showcases Iraqi-Palestinian artist Sama Alshaibi’s photography and Emirati artist Azza Al Qubaisi’s sculptures, addressing historical representation of Arab women. BFAF, designed by Rasha Gebran, offers free access, emphasising inclusivity and art education.

Perform Sharjah presents 16 artists presenting contemporary performances and artistic productions

Perform Sharjah, part of Sharjah Art Foundation’s performance season, gathers 16 artists at Perhaps Here to explore contemporary imagination orbits. From February 9 to 11, 2024, the event unfolds in Majlis Al Sheikh Mohammed and Bait Al Serkal, Sharjah. Artists from diverse backgrounds share their creations with the public, echoing Khulood AlMu’alla’s poetry book ‘Rubbama Huna,’ translating to ‘Perhaps Here’ in English. The event offers a blend of live performances, including eight commissioned productions, spanning theater, video, poetry readings, and literature. Audience members can choose from various shows each night, experiencing a rich tapestry of artistic expressions simultaneously.

Sharjah Art Foundation announces program for March Meeting 2024: ‘Tawashujat’

The Sharjah Art Foundation announces the program for the 2024 edition of March Meeting (MM 2024) which delves into the synergy between art collectives and collaborative practices, featuring over 80 global artists, professionals, and academics. Happening from March 1st to 3rd at Khalid Bin Mohammed School in Sharjah, UAE, the program includes discussions, workshops, performances, and readings, all open to the public. The theme “Tawashujat” symbolises the merging of ideas, exploring inclusive, sustainable futures. MM 2024 explores collaborative approaches in art, curatorial, and activist realms, emphasising social justice, solidarity, and political mobilisation. The event facilitates active engagement through breakout sessions and discussions, aiming to redefine artistic agency and promote equity amidst global challenges.

Wael Shawky represents Egypt at La Biennale di Venezia 2024

Wael Shawky will represent Egypt for the 2024 La Biennale di Venezia. Renowned for his storytelling prowess, Shawky intricately weaves historical and literary references into captivating narratives, blurring the lines between fable, reality, and imagination. Through mediums like film, performance, painting, and sculpture, Shawky explores themes of national, religious, and artistic identity. Shawky’s will be displayed in a solo exhibition, ‘I Am Hymns of The New Temples,’ at Museo Palazzo Grimani in Venice, commencing on April 17, 2024, curated by Massimo Osanna, Andrea Viliani, and Gabriel Zuchtriegel, in collaboration with the Archaeological Park of Pompeii under the ‘Pompeii Commitment. Archaeological Matters’ program.

Qatar Museums announces Art for Peace campaign with Qatar Red Crescent in support of Palestine

Qatar Museums, in collaboration with Qatar Red Crescent, launches Art for Peace, a humanitarian initiative responding to recent events in Gaza, Palestine. Beginning January 19 and continuing every Friday until March 8, 2024, from 2 pm to 6 pm, this weekly fundraiser spans various Qatar Museums’ locations, blending art, community, and humanitarianism. Art for Peace aims to raise awareness and funds through “Art & Creativity,” engaging Qatar’s diverse population to support Gaza, Palestine, and promote unity through artistic expression. With Qatar Red Crescent’s integral support, this initiative embodies solidarity and encourages community involvement in a noble cause.

Qatar Museums unveils line-up of designers and exhibitions for the inaugural edition of Design Doha

Qatar Museums unveils plans for six exhibitions at the inaugural Design Doha, celebrating design in Qatar and the MENA region from February 24 to August 5, 2024. Headlining the event is Arab Design Now, showcasing over 70 regional designers and 38 commissioned works at M7, Doha’s hub for innovation and fashion. Curated by Rana Beiruti, this exhibition explores contemporary design merged with regional heritage, emphasising sustainability. Additionally, five exhibitions including Weaving Poems and 100/100 Hundred Best Arabic Posters will debut. Crafting Uzbekistan, presented by the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation, highlights Uzbek craft traditions fused with modern creativity.

ADMAF announces the winner of its 2023 TotalEnergies Sustainability Design Award

ADMAF unveils the winners of the TotalEnergies Sustainability Design Award 2023: Sara Ali Mahmoud and Mariam Hisham Al Qasim from the American University of Sharjah, champions of the ‘Temporary City Project’. This award, formerly the Design Commission, celebrates innovative Emirati talent in design and architecture since 2014. With a focus on sustainability, this year’s winning project epitomises the global call to tackle climate change and sustainability challenges. Huda Ibrahim Alkhamis, founder of ADMAF, underscores the significance of nurturing young talents like Sara and Mariam. TotalEnergies Foundation, committed to promoting culture, proudly supports emerging artists, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainability.

January 2024

The National Pavilion of Saudi Arabia Announces Curators for the Biennale Arte 2024

Jessica Cerasi, Maya El Khalil, and Shadin AlBulaihed are set to curate the Saudi Arabian Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. Commissioned by the Visual Arts Commission of the Ministry of Culture, the curatorial trio, along with assistant curator AlBulaihed, will collaborate with artist Manal AlDowayan. Their curatorial backgrounds and deep connections with AlDowayan promise a compelling presentation under the theme “Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere.” Cerasi, based in Abu Dhabi, brings experience from the Guggenheim Museum and biennials; El Khalil, an international curator, has a history with AlDowayan and has pioneered art exhibition approaches in Jeddah; AlBulaihed, from Misk Art Institute, explores local narratives. The curators express excitement about bringing Saudi stories to a global audience through AlDowayan’s participatory and collaborative works. The exhibition is scheduled from April 20 to November 24, 2024, at the National Pavilion in Venice’s Arsenale, Sale d’Armi.

AlUla unveils new Artist Residency programmes and participating creatives 

AlUla, the cultural hub of Saudi Arabia, announces its AlUla Artist Residency Program, featuring six programs from October 2023 to October 2024. The initiative fosters a global network, inviting artists worldwide to contribute to AlUla’s rich heritage through visual arts, performance, design, and more. The residencies culminate in exhibitions during the AlUla Arts Festival, showcasing the dynamic collaborations between established and emerging artists. With a focus on heritage, innovation, and long-term artistic endeavours, AlUla aims to position itself as a vibrant global destination for immersive and collaborative residencies.

Fire Station’s Artist in Residence announces Ruwad in Residence 2024

Fire Station’s Artist in Residence program announces the commencement of its “Ruwad in Residence” initiative on January 1, 2024, featuring invited artists Haifa Alkhuzaei and Ahmed Al Hamar. Launched in 2021 to support established artists in Qatar, the program connects experienced artists with emerging talents through mentorship, critiques, and public programs, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas. Khalifa Al Obaidli, Director of Fire Station, emphasises the initiative’s role in facilitating connections and knowledge exchange. Haifa Alkhuzaei, a former Qatari art teacher, and Ahmed Al Hamar, an active participant in exhibitions, joined the residency, engaging with the local community and contributing to the program’s rich artistic dialogue.

Alfan Al Thalith NCCAL’s new platform for public art in Kuwait open call

NCCAL is set to unveil “Alfan Al Thalith,” a platform revolutionising public art creation in Kuwait. The project invites artists to submit mural designs for the “Al Fenn Al-Thalith” initiative, focusing on electrical substations in the “Al-Mesayel” area in collaboration with Mobader Team. With a mission to amplify community engagement and education through art, the initiative aims to cast the public sector in a positive light. The platform simplifies the process for artists, nurturing Kuwait’s local art scene, with NCCAL spearheading public art endeavours. The official launch in early February involves selected substations, artists, the community, and volunteers.

Morocco unforeseeably replaces its Venice Biennale Pavilion

With the 60th Venice Biennale approaching, Morocco has unexpectedly changed its inaugural national pavilion, dropping the initially chosen artists and curators Majida Khatari, Safaa Erruas, and Fatiha Zemouri, and curators Mahi Binebine, Imane Barakat, and Mostafa Aghrib in favour of a new exhibition curated by Paris-based art historian Mouna Mekouar. The decision was revealed on January 15, leaving the initially selected group, which self-funded the project, shocked and disappointed. The Ministry of Culture has not officially confirmed the news or provided reasons for the change. The snubbed artists and curators expressed their dismay, describing it as a significant blow and questioning the institution’s disregard for artists it was supposed to promote. The alternate project details remain scarce.

Lebanese artist Hussein Madi dies at the age of 86

Lebanon lost one of its most recognised artists on Wednesday night. Known as the “Lebanese Picasso,” Hussein Madi passed away at the age of 86. Born in 1938 in Chébaa, South Lebanon, Madi was a painter, sculptor, and engraver. Between 1958 and 1962, he studied painting at the Lebanese Academy of Fine Arts in Beirut before moving to Rome in 1963 to continue his studies at the Accademia di Belle Arti. Originally planning a two-month stay, he ended up remaining in Rome for 22 years. From 1972 to 1987, Madi taught painting at the National Institute of Arts at the Lebanese University. He served as the president of the Lebanese Artists Association from 1982 to 1992. Art critics praised his “creative genius” in blending colours, materials, forms, and messages, navigating between figuration and abstraction, East and West, and incorporating elements of Cubism, Fauvism, and Arabic calligraphy.

Gallerist, artist and prominent art figure Waddah Faris dies at the age of 84

Renowned Lebanese and regional art figure Waddah Faris, celebrated for his charisma and multifaceted contributions, passed away at 84. Born to an Iraqi diplomat, Faris significantly influenced local, Arab, and global art. Co-founding the Contact art gallery, Faris supported cultural events and artists, transcending acquaintanceship to offer graphic design assistance. His Faris Gallery in Paris (1980) became an international hub for Arab art, showcasing artists at FIAC and Art Basel. Known for preserving negatives, Faris’s unprinted photos inspired the 2017 exhibition, honouring Lebanon’s cultural heritage. Despite residing near Barcelona, his deep connection with Beirut endured, marking the end of a pivotal era in Lebanese and Arab art.

DiGen Art, digital art gallery opens in Beirut

DiGen Art, standing for “Digitally Generated Art,” has inaugurated its gallery in Beirut’s Hamra District, marking Lebanon’s first exclusive space for digital art. With a focus on advancing the digital art movement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the gallery emphasises research, education, and supporting emerging artists. By celebrating the region’s cultural history, particularly in algorithmic art, DiGen Art aims to integrate MENA into the global digital revolution. The Beirut space transcends traditional gallery functions, serving as both an exhibition space and a dynamic creative hub, fostering experimentation with emerging technologies and hosting engaging events.

Design Space AlUla, the first permanent gallery dedicated to design initiatives opens in  AlUla

Design Space AlUla, set to open in February 2024, emerges as a hub in AlUla, showcasing diverse design initiatives aligning with AlUla’s vision. Nestled in the AlJadidah Arts District, it serves as a collaborative space for design professionals, students, and enthusiasts. The contemporary corten steel, glass, and polished concrete building, designed by Giò Forma Studio, pays homage to the local breezeblock aesthetic. Curated by Sara Ghani, the inaugural exhibition, “Mawrid: Celebrating Inspired Design,” unveils 10 recent AlUla-inspired projects, fostering engagement with design principles and processes. Design Space AlUla aims to amplify the region’s design community’s role in shaping character, quality of life, and the broader economy.

The Inaugural Emirati-led light art festival Dhai Dubai unveils lineup of Emirati artists

Expo City Dubai, in collaboration with AGB Creative and Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, unveils the lineup for the inaugural Dhai Dubai Light Art Festival. Illuminating Dubai for ten nights from January 26 to February 4, the festival features visionary installations by seven accomplished Emirati artists, embodying the city’s spirit through a blend of tradition and contemporary artistry. Artists such as Mattar Bin Lahej, Dr Najat Makki, Dr Mohamed Yousef, Abdulla Almulla, Maitha Hamdan, Khalid Al Shafar, and Reem Al Ghaith contribute not just installations but stories woven in light, reflecting the UAE’s heritage and offering glimpses into the collective future.

Indiana University cancels a retrospective on Palestinian artist Samia Halaby

Indiana University’s Eskenazi Museum of Art abruptly canceled Palestinian artist Samia Halaby’s retrospective, “Centres of Energy,” just before its February 10 opening. The cancellation followed a letter from Rep. Jim Banks threatening federal funding loss due to alleged “antisemitism” concerns. Museum director David Brenneman, who had previously praised Halaby, notified her in a brief letter. The university cited integrity concerns as the reason. Born in Jerusalem in 1936, Halaby, a respected abstract painter and Palestinian art scholar, denounced the cancellation as an infringement on her freedom of expression. An online petition demanding the show’s reinstatement has already garnered nearly 5,000 signatures.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture opens applications for ‘Emerging New Media Artists’ educational programme

The Saudi Ministry of Culture invites applications for its ‘Emerging New Media Artists’ Programme at the upcoming Diriyah Art Futures (DAF) centre. Geared towards emerging talents from the region and beyond, the initiative grants artists access to advanced equipment, a production budget, and diverse learning opportunities, including mentorship from global digital art experts. Aligned with the Ministry’s collaboration with Diriyah Company, DAF seeks to establish itself as the region’s premier New Media Arts centre, fostering creativity and artistic exploration. The one-year program, developed in partnership with Le Fresnoy – Studio National des Arts Contemporains, supports creative production training, encouraging applications from artists under 35 with expertise in digital and new media arts.

Lamia Joreige selected for the Drawing Prize of the Foundation Daniel et Florence Guerlain

Lamia Joreige has been chosen for the 17th edition of the Drawing Prize of the Fondation Daniel et Florence Guerlain, with her works exhibited at the Salon du Dessin, Palais Brongniart. The laureate announcement will be on March 21 at the Salon du Dessin, where selected artists’ works will be displayed from March 20 to 25, 2024. Founded in 2006, the Drawing Prize focuses on artists emphasising drawing in their works. The three nominees, selected by a committee, must have a cultural link with France. The winner, decided by a jury of collectors, receives €15,000, with €5,000 each for the two runners-up. Joreige’s art, spanning drawing, photography, video, objects, and installations, explores our connections with history and its impact. Her recent series, “Uncertain Times, Faisal’s Dream,” delves into Lebanon’s history during World War I, employing drawing to convey the weight of historical narratives.

Stephanie Saadé selected to be an artist in residence at Centre Pompidou Paris

Stephanie Saadé has been chosen as an artist in residence at Centre Pompidou Paris through the Accélérations program, curated by Michel Gauthier. Sponsored by BNP Parisbas Banque Privée, the 6-month residency includes the production and acquisition of Saadé’s work by Centre Pompidou. Saadé’s artistic language revolves around suggestion, utilising poetics and metaphor. She presents clues, signs, and imageless, sometimes silent trails, akin to the words of a cohesive sentence. Viewers are tasked with deciphering these elements, much like an archaeologist interpreting traces, fossils, and fragments. Saadé’s enigmatic quality often draws from her personal experiences, yet she invokes them universally in her oeuvre.

‘Babel’ by Yves Hayat acquired by the Institut du Monde Arabe, Paris

The Mark Hachem Gallery announces the inclusion of Yves Hayat’s artwork, BABEL, in the collection of the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris. Part of the series “The Confusion of Confessions,” BABEL is a compilation of pages sourced from sacred texts in various languages—a poignant portrayal of beings’ struggle to understand, tolerate, and coexist, profoundly relevant in today’s world. Originally from Egypt, Yves Hayat, shaped by his rich cultural background, pursued art studies in France. While initially venturing into advertising, Hayat’s artistic journey, marked by diverse media and techniques, took precedence in the 1990s. Renowned as a “plasticien,” his works blend modernity with classical influences, exploring human condition and societal nuances. His unique approach incorporates communication-based society imagery, conveying a clear, untortured commentary on our era. Titles like “Business must go on” and “Femmes au bord de la crise de guerre” imbue his works with meaning, offering insight into the pollution of our daily lives and revealing our collective identity. Yves Hayat, a true artist of our time, captures the fascination and ambivalence inherent in human existence.

The Boghossian Foundation organises online benefit auction for Armenia

The Boghossian Foundation introduces the online Benefit Auction for Armenia on Artsy, featuring approximately 20 lots by renowned artists like Etel Adnan, Peter Halley, Robert Longo, Gérard Schneider, and Chico da Silva. Amidst the tragic events in Armenia, with over 100,000 displaced people from Artsakh, the foundation intensifies its efforts to aid the country. The auction’s proceeds will contribute to the AGBU Global Relief Fund, facilitating AGBU’s support for refugees in securing essentials like food, housing, and employment for a fresh start. Stand in solidarity with Artsakh refugees by participating in the art auction, elevating the impact of collective action. Online on Artsy from February 15 to 29, 2024.

10th Istanbul Photo Awards Jury Announced

The jury for the 10th Istanbul Photo Awards has been unveiled, featuring figures from the photography world, including winners of prestigious accolades like the Pulitzer and World Press Photo prizes including Carol Guzy, Ami Vitale, Goran Tomasevic, Yuri Kozyrev, Michel Scotto, Cameron Spencer, Marion Mertens, Ahmet Sel and Firat Yurdakul. These panelists will assess and recognise the submissions in various categories, with three winners per category and two special prizes commemorating the contest’s tenth anniversary. The total prize fund for the 10th-year competition amounts to $60,000. Additionally, all first prize winners across categories will receive SONY Alpha A7 III Body cameras. Sponsored by Turkcell, Sony, TIKA, and Turkish Airlines, the contest accepts free applications until Jan. 17, with the jury set to announce winners in April.

1-54 Marrakech 2024 Announces Represented Galleries 

The 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair is set to host its fifth edition in Marrakech, featuring 27 galleries with over 80 artists from February 8-11, 2024, at La Mamounia and DaDa. Expanding its footprint, the fair introduces a second location at DaDa, reflecting its remarkable success and commitment to the vibrant Marrakech art scene. This edition welcomes 27 exhibitors, including 14 from Africa, with eight based in Morocco. The diverse lineup, from Paris to Luanda, promises the largest showcase to date, strengthening Marrakech’s position as a hub for contemporary African art.