Latest news with #ADMAF
Sharjah 24
25-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Nahyan bin Mubarak honours ADMAF awardees, media youth
A message of national development and youth empowerment In his speech, Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the importance of investing in the nation's youth, calling them the "true wealth" of the UAE. He praised the graduates for embodying ambition and national values and emphasised the role of culture and media as tools for development, dialogue, and global connection. He also tied the ceremony to the goals of the Year of Community 2025, stressing the significance of social cohesion and cultural preservation. ADMAF's strategic vision Huda Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF, reiterated the foundation's commitment to supporting youth through awards in creativity, visual arts, sustainable design, and jewelry design. She emphasised the importance of preparing young professionals for the digital age, including developments in artificial intelligence. Industry mentorship and real-world learning The Young Media Leaders programme, developed in collaboration with International Media Investments (IMI), provided immersive training under prominent media figures such as Mohamed Al Hammadi, Dr. Sulaiman Al-Hattlan, Nayla Tueni, and others. Rani Raad, CEO of IMI, praised the programme's success in developing media professionals equipped with real-world experience and a deep understanding of Emirati values. Recognising talent across artistic disciplines This year's ADMAF Awards celebrated excellence across various creative disciplines, highlighting the innovation and cultural insight of young Emirati talents. Dana Alkatheeri from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi received the Creativity Award for her original musical composition The Founder's Legacy, which pays tribute to the environmental vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The Visual Arts Award was presented to Abdulla Alneyadi of UAE University for his sculptural piece Eternal Gateways, which draws inspiration from traditional Emirati architecture to convey themes of unity and community. The Sustainability Design Award went to Tasneem Albaiti and Alreem Alameri from Zayed University for their innovative research project on creating paper from leaf waste, contributing to sustainable practices in design and environmental awareness. Longstanding partnerships Dr Karim El Solh, CEO of Gulf Capital, highlighted the 14-year partnership with ADMAF, noting its role in opening doors for young creatives. He reaffirmed the commitment to supporting youth through access to resources and platforms that turn passion into purpose. A vision for the future The ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of the UAE's dedication to cultivating a creative, informed, and innovative generation. Sheikh Nahyan praised the achievements of the awardees and graduates, stressing their role in shaping the UAE's cultural and media landscape for the years to come.
Al Etihad
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Nahyan bin Mubarak honours winners of ADMAF Awards
25 May 2025 16:40 ABU DHABI (WAM)Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Patron of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), honoured five recipients of the ADMAF Awards along with 22 graduates of the Young Media Leaders (YML) career development programme, which aims to strengthen the capacity of the UAE's next generation of creative industry professionals and strengthen their role in shaping the UAE's cultural and media Nahyan bin Mubarak said: 'We are pleased today to participate in this honourable celebration of a group of prominent media and cultural leaders. This occasion affirms our unwavering commitment to strengthening the position of youth in various development sectors and embodies our enlightened vision of investing in people as the true wealth of our nation. "As we honour this distinguished group of our youth, we honour ambition, merit, and giving, and celebrate the success stories that tell the story of the UAE in its ongoing pursuit of progress and leadership.'He added: "The year 2025, in which we celebrate the values of the Year of Community, represents an important occasion to consolidate the meanings of social cohesion, strengthen national solidarity, create sustainable spaces for dialogue and joint action, and transfer expertise between generations to preserve and develop our cultural heritage.'He continued: 'The pioneering initiatives and effective strategic partnerships undertaken by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) directly contribute to the development of a new generation of Emirati youth capable of expressing national identity through art, culture and modern media.'In the UAE, we view culture, media, and the arts as tools for human development, messages of peace, and means to strengthen identity and build bridges with peoples around the world. Through this ceremony, we reaffirm our ongoing commitment to supporting and empowering youth, and investing in their creative energies to contribute to the UAE's journey towards a brighter future based on tolerance, knowledge, innovation and social integration,' he Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), said: 'Honouring the winners of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation's (ADMAF) Creativity, Visual Arts, Sustainable Design, and Jewelry Design Awards in partnership with Gulf Capital, TotalEnergies, and L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts - alongside the graduation of students from the Young Media Leaders Programme (YML) in partnership with International Media Investments (IMI) - is a reflection of our commitment to investing in youth, supporting their career development, and realising their dreams and ambitions in the creative and media industries. It also enables them to keep pace with rapid changes in the fields of digitalisation and artificial intelligence.'She added: 'The recognition of 27 young men and women from the UAE is in line with the principles and values of the Year of Community, which includes community solidarity, preserving heritage, cherishing culture and identity, and encouraging innovation and leadership. It also reflects our belief in the importance of fostering creativity, recognising excellence and celebrating free and renewed thought.''Aligned with ADMAF's vision to strengthen the local media landscape, the programme offers a dedicated platform for university students and recent graduates through a series of interactive workshops and immersive learning experiences across traditional and digital media, social media and artificial year, a total of 22 students successfully graduated as part of the 2025 cohort under the guidance of leading media figures including Mohamed Al Hammadi, Acting Director-General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. Sulaiman Al-Hattlan, Founder and CEO of Hattlan Media, Nayla Tueni, CEO of Annahar Media Group, Mohamed Al Otaiba, CEO of Syndication Bureau, Faisal Bin Huraiz, Head of IMI Media Academy, and journalist Saeed Raad, CEO of International Media Investments (IMI), expressed his pride in graduating the seventh cohort of the 'Young Media Leaders' career development programme. He affirmed that the IMI Media Academy, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), delivered an intensive training experience within a real-world media environment, specifically designed to develop a confident, capable, and influential generation of media added: 'We take great pride in the results of this inspiring collaboration, and we truly value ADMAF's belief in our applied learning model, which combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. This approach plays a key role in sharpening the skills of our youth and empowering them to create content that reflects our values, identity, and culture. "We are confident that this cohort—like those before it—will make a meaningful impact and leave its mark on the media landscape.'Celebrating excellence in the fields of performing and visual arts, sustainable design, and jewelry design the Foundation presents this year's awards in collaboration with Gulf Capital, TotalEnergies, and L'ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to recognizing outstanding achievement and nurturing creative talent across key artistic and design Karim El Solh, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Capital, said: 'We are proud of our longstanding partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, an alliance that spans 14 years and continues to grow stronger each year, reflecting our shared commitment to empowering the next generation of creatives. "Through the Gulf Capital - ADMAF Awards, we're not just recognising young talent, we're opening doors, we're helping the youth turn their passion into purpose, giving them the tools, visibility and support they need to thrive in the fast-growing creative and cultural industries.''We remain deeply committed to nurturing the UAE's creative potential, and we look forward to continuing this journey with ADMAF, celebrating bold ideas, discovering and rewarding talent, and shaping a future where creativity drives progress.' Dr. El Solh Gulf Capital – ADMAF Creativity Award 2024 recognises creative excellence among youth in the performing arts, celebrating outstanding original work in music, dance, spoken word, or theatre. Dana Alkatheeri from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi received the award for her project The Founder's Legacy. The young artist's debut original composition reflects her deep respect for her country and serves as a tribute to the environmental legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Gulf Capital – ADMAF Visual Arts Award 2024 was presented to Abdulla Alneyadi of UAE University for his art installation Eternal Gateways, which blends architecture and sculpture to promote themes of unity and inclusivity. His winning piece draws inspiration from the traditional metal gates of UAE neighborhoods, symbolising both community and the importance of eco-conscious design, the TotalEnergies Sustainability Design Award 2024 was awarded to Tasneem Albaiti and Alreem Alameri from Zayed University for their innovative project Graphic Design's Contribution to Environmental Sustainability Through Leaf Waste-Derived Paper in the UAE. Their research explores sustainable alternatives to traditional paper production, focusing on the use of ghaf and palm leaves as eco-friendly substitutes for wood pulp, aiming to reduce environmental impact. In the field of craftsmanship and cultural heritage, the ADMAF Jewelry Design Award in partnership with L'ÉCOLE Middle East School of Jewelry Arts supported by Van Cleef & Arpels celebrated Shamma Al Hammadi from the University of Sharjah for her jewelry design Al Dana wa Al Khawasa, which draws inspiration from Emirati culture, incorporating the tradition of pearl diving while merging storytelling with exquisite artisanal jewelry technique.
Emirates 24/7
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates 24/7
Nahyan bin Mubarak inaugurates ‘Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits' exhibition
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Patron of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) inaugurated 'Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits – Contemporary Art from Korea, 1960s to Today,' on 15th May at Manarat Al Saadiyat. In attendance were Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State; Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of State; Jae Song-yoo, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the UAE; Choi Sook-ma, Deputy Mayor for Cultural Affairs at the Seoul Metropolitan Government; Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Managing Director of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi; Badr Jafar, UAE Special Envoy for Business and Philanthropy; Dr. Ali Bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre; Sheikha Noor Fahem Al Qassimi, Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation; and Mohamed Abdul Latif Kanoo, Member of the Foundation's Advisory Board, and a number of dignitaries and prominent figures from the cultural and artistic community. The exhibition, which marks the first large-scale showcase of contemporary Korean art in the Middle East and running until 30th June 2025. Part of a major three-year partnership, this unprecedented initiative represents a strategic institutional collaboration between ADMAF Foundation and the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA). The exhibition represents a shared cultural vision aimed at establishing Abu Dhabi as a global platform for cultural exchange and dialogue between civilisations. Spanning six decades, the exhibition traces the evolution of contemporary Korean art, revealing how artists have responded to the country's profound social and technological transformations through works that span diverse mediums, offering a dynamic and ever-evolving artistic experience. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak stated during the inauguration of the Seoul Museum of Art's exhibition in Abu Dhabi, 'Hosting this exhibition in Abu Dhabi reaffirms the depth of cultural relations between the UAE and the Republic of South Korea. It embodies the vision of our wise leadership, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in strengthening soft power and cultural diplomacy efforts, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading global hub for civilisational dialogue and knowledge exchange. This is achieved through building partnerships, signing memoranda of understanding with leading cultural institutions, and launching innovative initiatives in music, performing arts, and visual arts.' He added, 'Featuring 48 exceptional works by pioneering South Korean artists, accompanied by an interactive community program open to all, this first-ever exhibition in the Middle East of the Seoul Museum of Art's collection at Manarat Al Saadiyat offers a unique opportunity to introduce local and regional audiences to the masterpieces of modern art. It presents a rich historical journey spanning from the 1960s to today—showcasing works that reflect deep human and cultural connection, while stimulating meaningful conversations around identity, society, and the increasing role of technology in shaping contemporary life. This initiative continues our unwavering commitment to raising cultural and artistic awareness, promoting values of tolerance, coexistence, and openness to world cultures—paving the way for a more creative, diverse, and enriched future.' Huda Alkhamis, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and Founder of Abu Dhabi Festival, said, 'The Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) exhibition, held for the first time in the Middle East, is proof that culture complements the path of diplomacy, opens doors, transcends all borders, and touches hearts, like a hymn or a poem. Embracing values and connecting cultures, the exhibition transforms differences into creative exchange in a diverse world. The most beautiful aspect of it is the experience, with its depth and integrated cultural dimensions.' He continued, 'Through our historic partnership with the world-renowned Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) we are setting a precedent for international institutional partnerships - thanks to the strength and depth of our shared ties. This is the first exhibition of the museum's collections outside of Korea, and the first exhibition of this magnitude of Korean art in the Arab world. All of this is a living entity that is growing and developing, with the creative energy of the creative communities in Abu Dhabi, Korea and the world. This is a meeting of thought, innovation, and new opportunities with creativity that illuminates the future from Manarat Al Saadiyat and in the UAE's Year of the Community, from Abu Dhabi - A World of Harmony.' Eunju Choi, General Director of the Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA) said, 'Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits marks the most extensive presentation of Contemporary Korean Art to date in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Featuring 48 works by 29 Korean artists, including seminal pieces from the Seoul Museum of Art's collection, the exhibition offers a compelling overview of current practices in Korean contemporary art. The exhibition includes Nam June Paik's Self-Portrait Dharma Wheel (1998), and Ayoung Kim's Delivery Dancer's Sphere (2022), which together trace both the legacy and the future directions of Korean Media Art. Audiences in the GCC will have a unique opportunity to engage with the historical context, distinct characteristics, and future possibilities of Contemporary Korean Art." She added, 'In December, SeMA will continue this cultural dialogue by presenting Intense Proximities, an exhibition introducing contemporary art from the United Arab Emirates, at the Seosomun Main Branch of SeMA. We believe these exhibitions will not only foster greater understanding between our respective art communities, but also contribute meaningfully to the global discourse on contemporary art.' The exhibition is presented as part of Abu Dhabi Festival 2025, with the support of the Festival's principal partners—Mubadala Investment Company and G42—and its energy partner, GS Energy. Co-curated by SeMA curator Kyung-hwan Yeo and curator Maya El Khalil, 'Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits,' presents works from SeMA's collection of contemporary art for the first time in the UAE. Tracing the evolution of Korea's unique avant-garde contemporary art scene, the exhibition follows the media-driven expansions and connections evident in representative works by key Korean contemporary artists from the past sixty years. It addresses how artists have responded to the dramatic social and technological changes in Korea through the amalgamation of media, highlighting artworks moving through layered, intersecting mediums, shifting from the intimate to the global, with perspectives on the past, present and future. Drawing on Nam June Paik's prescient 1966 statement 'We Are in Open Circuits,' which anticipated our hyper-connected contemporary world, the exhibition explores how art operates as a system of communication, exploring connections from our most intimate sensory experiences to mediations of the larger systems and structures that shape our urban, social and cultural conditions. Situating the exhibition in the cultural context of Abu Dhabi imbues the works with new layers of meaning, particularly in a region which shares experiences of globalisation and rapid urbanisation. Significantly, the exhibition is the first large-scale showcase of SeMA's collection beyond Korea and serves as an important platform to introduce Korea's artistic heritage to new audiences, expanding the reach of the museum internationally. The exhibition will be accompanied by 'Layered Dialogues,' a publication featuring texts by UAE-based writers, deepening the cultural exchange between Korea and the UAE. The spatial design by Formafantasma reinforced the exhibition's conceptual framework through material storytelling and architectural sensitivity. A dynamic public programme of panel talks, screenings, and performances further enriched the visitor experience. In addition, a series of panel discussions and artist film screenings will form part of the wider public programme, with full details to be shared online in due course. This exhibition forms part of a long-term partnership between ADMAF and SeMA, aimed at fostering cultural dialogue between the UAE and South Korea. Following its Abu Dhabi debut, a second co-curated exhibition, Intense Proximities, will open at SeMA in Seoul in December 2025, premiering the work of three generations of UAE-based artists. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Al Etihad
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi launches exhibition showcasing evolution of Korea's avant-garde contemporary art
14 May 2025 18:09 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and Seoul Museum of Art (SEMA) have partnered to launch a new exhibition, Layered Medium: We Are in Open Circuits, taking place from May 16 until June 30, 2025 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi, charting Korea's artistic responses to profound social and technological inaugural exhibition is first in a three-year collaboration between the two entities. The exhibition will showcase 48 works by 29 Korean artists from the 1960s to the present day, and will feature the first large-scale showcase of Korean contemporary art in the GCC. Many of the works on display are being shown in the UAE for the first time. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Gulf Business
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 showcases global collaborations, youth empowerment
Images: Supplied Since its establishment in 2004, the Organised by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), the festival is more than an annual event – it is a year-round movement advancing creativity, education, and cultural exchange. At the heart of the festival is a belief in the transformative power of the arts – to transcend borders, spark dialogue, and inspire future generations. 'What drives the Abu Dhabi Festival is the belief that art speaks a universal language. It's about building bridges and sparking dialogue,' said a representative from ADMAF. Championing creativity and cultural diplomacy Over the years, the festival has hosted the world's most celebrated orchestras, performers, and creators. However, its impact lies not only in memorable world premieres, but also in the way it balances global ambition with local authenticity. Each edition is curated to blend tradition with innovation, with partnerships that generate cultural, educational, and social impact. The 2025 edition, which concluded earlier this month, reinforced the festival's mission by delivering a rich programme of performances, partnerships, and initiatives that continue to position Abu Dhabi as a global arts capital. A memorable edition This year's Abu Dhabi Festival, its 22nd edition, was truly exceptional, blending world-class performances with a strong educational and community impact under the inspiring theme 'Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony.' Celebrating over 50 years of friendship and diplomatic relations between the UAE and country of honour Japan, the Festival featured a breathtaking performance by Japanese taiko drumming troupe Kodo and the UAE debut of pianist Yunchan Lim, whose rendition of the Goldberg Variations left audiences in awe. Other highlights included performances by Katia and Marielle Labèque, percussionist Kuniko Kato, and an All-Star Ballet Gala with dancers from the Royal Ballet and Paris Opera Ballet. Beyond the stage, the festival's Outreach Programme engaged more than 1,700 students through open rehearsals and school visits by the artists, offering rare, up-close moments where global artistry connected with local youth. These encounters reflected the festival's enduring commitment to empowering the next generation through direct cultural engagement. Pianist Yunchan Lim performs at Abu Dhabi Festival. Image: Supplied Abroad Programme extends global reach Among the festival's flagship initiatives is the Abroad Programme , which builds partnerships with international cultural institutions while promoting Arab creativity on global stages. A highlight of the 2025 edition was the co-production of Pelléas et Mélisande with the Opéra National de Paris – a milestone in cultural diplomacy and the first of its kind between a Middle Eastern entity and the Paris Opera. Directed by acclaimed playwright Wajdi Mouawad, the production ran from February 28 to March 27 and attracted more than 22,000 attendees. It reflected the festival's growing influence as a cultural ambassador and bridge-builder between East and West. Education and empowerment at the core The Abu Dhabi Festival has also embedded education into its cultural mission, forging long-term partnerships to empower emerging talent. The Dolce & Gabbana x ADMAF Award offered talented young Emiratis six-month internships at the Italian fashion house's headquarters, providing hands-on experience in haute couture. 'This is about more than exposure. It's about building skills, confidence, and cultural fluency,' the ADMAF team said. A separate partnership with TotalEnergies supported sustainability-themed competitions and education initiatives, challenging students to merge environmental awareness with artistic expression – aligning with ADMAF's commitment to nurturing culturally and socially conscious leaders. Abu Dhabi Festival: Local talent, global platforms At home, the festival continues to foster young creatives through initiatives like the Young Media Leaders programme, launched in 2007. Emirati students and graduates are introduced to journalism, broadcasting, and digital content through immersive workshops and mentorships. 'It's not just a training ground, it's a launchpad for future storytellers,' ADMAF said. The programme is closely tied to the Artist's Studio series, which gives participants the opportunity to interview global artists and share their insights with wider audiences – extending the festival's reach beyond its performances. New initiatives aimed at younger audiences have also emerged. My First Concert introduces classical music to children under four, while Symphony Storytelling brings books and narratives to life through orchestral music. These programmes, ADMAF said, help build empathy, imagination, and language skills, nurturing emotionally intelligent future leaders regardless of whether they pursue careers in the arts. A hallmark of the Abu Dhabi Festival is its dual focus on showcasing global excellence while championing regional talent. Programmes like the Composers' Platform and long-term commissions have provided UAE-based and Arab artists with opportunities to present original work alongside international counterparts. 'We're not just showcasing culture; we're shaping it,' ADMAF affirmed. Year-round impact While the annual festival remains the centrepiece, its influence continues year-round through educational initiatives, international collaborations, and mentorships that advance the UAE's position as a cultural and creative capital. As the festival grows, it remains committed to a singular vision: to inspire, connect, and empower through the universal language of the arts.
