The Dubai Sculpture Symposium 2024, an unprecedented event organized by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), is taking place at the Al Shindagha Historical District, gathering renowned sculptors from around the world. This pioneering symposium seeks to spotlight the art of sculpture, enhance Dubai’s cultural identity, and foster collaboration between local and international artists. The event, which will run until 22 December 2024, is designed to nurture creativity and innovation in the world of public art, creating a platform for exchange, learning, and showcasing exceptional artistic expressions.
A Fusion of Art, Heritage, and Innovation
This inaugural edition of the symposium features a vibrant mix of more than 15 artists from various countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Egypt, Tunisia, China, Ukraine, and beyond. The participating artists bring unique perspectives and diverse sculpting techniques, creating a global dialogue within the artistic community.
Among the standout works is Emirati artist Dr. Mohammed Yousif‘s sculpture titled Shells, which reflects Dubai’s beauty and essence through the imagery of two mysterious shells. Meanwhile, Azza Al Qubaisi, another Emirati artist, presents Dubai Heart, a dynamic sculpture blending local cultural elements with modern interpretations to symbolize the rapid transformation of the UAE.
Syrian artist Aktham Abdul Hamid showcases Cultural Accumulation, a thought-provoking piece that explores humanity’s historical journey, evolving from ancient experiences to the contemporary age of artificial intelligence. On the other hand, Chinese artist Liu Yang presents Starry Sky in Dubai, which uses light effects to capture the captivating beauty of Dubai’s night skies. Saudi artist Mohammed Al Thagafi’s Conversation represents societal harmony, with its delicate balance of soft and strong elements.
Global Artists Draw Inspiration from Dubai
The symposium also features contributions from artists who have drawn inspiration from Dubai’s rich heritage and modern aspirations. For instance, Romanian sculptor Ana Maria Negara presents Fractal, symbolizing the geometric harmony found in Dubai’s architectural landscape. Georgian artist Jhon Gogaberishvili‘s Fountain metaphorically portrays water droplets as symbols of balance between chaos and beauty. Bulgarian artist Georgi Minchev’s Fragment of Something Bigger examines life’s contrasts through dynamic sculptural forms.
Spanish artist José Millán offers Harmonic Connections, a sculpture that illustrates the concept of unity and the elegance of human relationships through the intertwining of two elements at a central point. Additionally, Ukrainian artist Lyudmyla Mysko, known for her monumental sculptures, showcases Magnetic Designer, a series that harmoniously blends physical forms and spatial voids.
Artists such as Tunisian Mohamed Bouaziz explore themes of life, movement, and environmental preservation, as seen in his sculpture Our Land, while Egyptian artist Said Badr presents City Gate, a piece symbolizing the connection between past, present, and future.
Workshops and Discussions on Art’s Role in Society
The symposium will also feature a series of specialized workshops and panels, which include discussions on sustainable art practices, preserving historical sculptures, and exploring interactive sculpture techniques. These sessions are scheduled for 14 and 21 December and aim to involve both artists and the public in valuable dialogues about how art shapes modern, sustainable societies.
The event will conclude with a special recognition ceremony, honoring the creative contributions of the artists involved. In line with its commitment to promoting global cultural dialogue, Dubai Culture continues to solidify Dubai’s position as a leading hub for art and creativity.
Important note: The symposium is not open to children to ensure a safe and focused environment for all attendees.
