Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Fiker Institute recently joined forces to host a research dialogue session titled ‘Contemporary Art in the Gulf: Archives, Movements, & Exchanges’ at Fiker Institute’s Library in Alserkal Avenue. This collaborative effort is part of a series of events aimed at fostering the exchange of expertise and knowledge to bolster the creative sector’s impact on Dubai’s global cultural landscape.
Distinguished speakers at the session included Professor Salwa Mikdadi, Director of the Al Madrid Center for the Study of Art, Maryam Alfalasi, co-founder of IRIS Projects, and Noor Al-Suwaidi, an accomplished Emirati visual artist. Moderating the discussion was Emirati curator and founder of Dirwaza Curatorial Lab, Munira AlSayegh.
The session delved into various topics central to the Gulf’s artistic heritage, including the importance of archival practices in preserving this heritage, the evolution of creative movements within the UAE and the broader region, and the mechanisms facilitating artistic exchanges and their impact on Gulf identity. Speakers emphasized the global contributions of GCC artists and highlighted the dynamic fusion of tradition and innovation evident in Gulf art.
This collaborative session underscores the commitment of Dubai Culture and Fiker Institute to positioning Emirati artists, writers, and creatives at the forefront of international dialogue. By engaging in discussions on global intellectual and strategic issues, this knowledge partnership seeks to enhance the role of Emirati talents in shaping the cultural sectors on a global scale.
Through such initiatives, Dubai Culture and Fiker Institute aim to empower and expand the creative sector’s contribution to Dubai’s thriving cultural scene, fostering an environment where artistic expression thrives and Emirati talents are celebrated on the world stage. This collaborative effort signifies a significant step forward in nurturing the rich cultural tapestry of the Gulf region and promoting its artists on a global platform.