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Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Traditional muse, millennial views: Old and new live in Jamila Patanwala's art
Jamila Patanwala is a contemporary Islamic artist, based in Dubai. 'My work is a reflection of my roots, and I strive to create pieces that invite the viewer to explore Islamic art in a contemporary manner,' she says. She primarily works in acrylics and mixed media, using bold colours 'to evoke the regality of Islamic patterns and calligraphy.' Her work is inspired by the richness of Islamic architecture, Quranic verses in Arabic calligraphy, and Nature. Some of her works were shown in an exhibition in Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) recently. They were commented upon for their focus on the subject, the detailing of their meaning and the expertise of their execution. From her workspace comes Mishqaat-ul-Anwar, in acrylic on canvas, inspired by the Jamea Al Anwar mosque in Cairo, Egypt. Jamila's painting depicts a mishqaat or lamp or light from the mosque. Fruits of the Holy Quran, created in mixed media (it was shown at DIAC) is a sculptural and calligraphic art series that brings to life sacred fruits mentioned in the Quran, through the medium of clay. Rehnuma in acrylic and go leaf on canvas, is influenced by the opulent history and cultural significance of calligraphy. Work titled Fruits of the Holy Quran. Shuja'at (Courage) in acrylic on canvas depicts a lion, its mane forged with swords — a crown of steel shaped by bravery, sacrifice, and divinely bestowed strength, says Jamila. Noorun-Ala-Noor or Light upon Light in acrylic is a luminous tribute to divine beauty and spiritual profundity. 'I have tried to give a contemporary look to the exterior Medallion motif on Jamea Al Anwar,' Jamila says. 'I have recreated it on a square MDF plank, trying to mimic the original's placement on the exterior wall of the mosque.' Shubbak Al Anwar in acrylic on MDF refers to the discovery of a Fatemi shubbak - a stucco grille with floral patterns - during the restoration and revival of the Jamea Al Anwar mosque. 'The painting of this window or grille evokes a sense of tranquility and spiritual elevation, symbolising the divine connection between the sacred space inside and the world beyond,' says Jamila. The Golden Armour is an illustration which portrays a woman dressed in the Rida, the traditional attire of Dawoodi Bohra women. 'This piece symbolises the strength, dignity, and beauty I find in wearing the Rida — not as a restriction, but as a radiant shield of identity and faith,' says Jamila. 'Just as armour protects a warrior, the Rida envelops me in a sense of purpose, confidence, and pride. Through this artwork, I aim to challenge the often misunderstood narrative around the hijab and abaya. They are not symbols of oppression, but of autonomy, progress, and inner strength.' The golden hue of the artwork represents empowerment, resilience and spiritual richness. Jamila Patanwala speaks more on her work to Gulf Today Why did art interest you? My interest started in childhood, seeing my older brother's sketches. Watching his pencil bringing images to life made art feel natural and achievable; so I picked up a pencil too. That early habit, which started as a sibling inspiration, grew into my own creative voice and passion for Arabic calligraphy, motifs, and Nature‑inspired pieces. What do you mean by 'Contemporary', as in contemporary artist? 'Contemporary' means 'of our time'. A contemporary artist is someone engaging with the ideas, material, technologies and culture of the present moment. I try to weave my own spiritual experience into a work; so the art reflects how faith feels now, not as it was felt centuries ago. The reinterpretations of classical motifs through contemporary lens, connects tradition with present day aesthetics. Jamila Patanwala is based in Dubai. How can Islamic art be interpreted in a contemporary way? My work begins with the foundations of Islamic art — calligraphy, geometry, and arabesque motifs — but I weave in elements of Nature and present them through today's materials and formats. You'll see paintings brought up to mural size technologically and calligraphy being projected on digital screens. So, while the vocabulary is traditional, the presentation turns it into a contemporary conversation. How has India and UAE influenced you as an artist? The India-UAE axes gave me a unique blend of deep tradition and modern aesthetics. India inspires the craft, colour, memory and devotional content; the UAE sharpens aesthetics, scale and global visibility. The dialogue between the two is what gives my pieces a cutting edge. Why do you use bold colours? In Islamic calligraphy, hues like lapis blue or radiant gold, evoke divinity and awe more powerfully than muted tones. I use bold colours because I want the message in my work to come through loud and clear. How does architecture inspire you as an artist? I am drawn to painting architecture, because buildings hold so much meaning. Islamic architecture is not just about structures - they are symbols of faith and connection to the divine. Architectural geometry and patterns provide me a sense of order and harmony. What is the role of calligraphy in your art? Calligraphy is the heart of my work. I use sacred words because they instantly give meaning to the composition. It's worship in a visual form. Is Art a profession for you or is it only a hobby? Art isn't just a hobby for me — it's my profession, my practice, and my purpose. I see art as service. Whether through conversation, workshops, or simply sharing my work, my goal is to bring art into people's lives in a meaningful way.
Gulf Today
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
DIAC's Green Umbrella offers shade for art, community and sustainability
In a city known for its fast pace and furious rhythms, an initiative by Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) is attempting to increase connectivity through creativity and community gathering, in Dubai. Welcome to Green Umbrella, a weekly celebration of art, sustainability, and community that has just completed its first season, bringing people together to slow down, create, reflect and engage in meaningful conversations. Spearheaded by Diyali Sen Bhalla, DIAC Chairperson, in collaboration with Barkha Bahirwani, founder of YES (Your Eco Souq), Green Umbrella has evolved from being an event to becoming a movement. 'This isn't just an event,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla. 'It's a tradition in the making.' Held every Thursday from 3PM onwards at DIAC HQ in Jumeirah, Green Umbrella offered a space where people of all ages could bond over nostalgic board games, pottery making, upcycling workshops and mindful conversations. 'DIAC has always been a place for creativity and expression,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla. 'With Green Umbrella, we're expanding that vision — bringing people together not only for art, but for shared experiences that build a stronger, more connected community.' Green Umbrella put upfront the genuine joy of human interaction. 'We wanted to create something that felt like home,' said Barkha Bahirwani. 'A place where you can come as you are, make new friends, and rediscover the joy of making things with your hands.' DIAC has been a long-standing hub for artists and creatives, and Green Umbrella blended tradition and innovation, just as the institution does. At Green Umbrella, hands shaped clay amidst the shuffle of board games and discussions on sustainability. The games brought back childhood memories — long evenings spent with family and friends, strategising, laughing, and bonding. Green Umbrella rekindled this magic, inviting people of all ages to put their mobiles down and engage in honest play. Combing through a table. Upcycling workshops showed attendees how to transform waste into aesthetic, functional items. Groups learnt here about creativity with a purpose, since sustainability was at the heart of the Green Umbrella programme. Led by YES, those taking part were taught how to create products from fabric scrap, refashion discarded jewellery and make glass bottle lanterns from overlooked items. 'Upcycling isn't just about reducing waste — it's about shifting perspectives,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla. 'It's about seeing value where others see trash.' Pottery sessions led by Guddi Bajaj, owner of Innara and Coterie Pottery, became the place where participants could shape, mould and glaze their own creations, guided by expert artisans. Diyali Sen Bhalla emphasised that 'pottery is more than an art form. It teaches patience, focus, and the beauty of imperfection.' The takeaway was that there could be perhaps nothing that encouraged a meditative mood more than working with clay. Mindfulness and community conversations were held with the support of All is Mindfulness, incorporating guided meditation, mindful creativity sessions, and discussions on conscious living. Participants interacted with guest artists and storytellers, even as Green Umbrella turned into a platform for local artisans and eco-businesses, for showcasing their work. Green Umbrella was a space for families to reconnect through shared experiences. It was a classroom for sustainability education and hands-on learning through sustainability projects. With the first season behind it and with the response it has won, the initiative is looking forward to the next season. DIAC Chairperson Diyali Sen Bhalla. Diyali Sen Bhalla expressed her enthusiasm for the programme. 'It was amazing to see families sitting together, laughing over a game of Scrabble or Monopoly,' she said. 'It reminded us how important these small moments are. Beyond the fun and creativity, Green Umbrella made a real impact.' Most importantly, she said, 'it's a community-driven initiative, built on the belief that small moments — playing a game, shaping clay, sharing a story — can create lasting change. We saw that with every passing week, Green Umbrella was growing. Not just in attendance numbers, but in spirit.' DIAC, along with their founding partners, are now exploring ways to expand the initiative by introducing more hands-on sustainability projects, more guest artists and storytellers and unique themed editions of Green Umbrella. 'The dream is to make Green Umbrella a long standing tradition, a place where community comes together, once a week. In a world that moves so fast, we all need spaces where we can pause and breathe. That's what Green Umbrella is — an invitation to slow down and connect.' But how do arts, crafts and ecology come together? Diyali Sen Bhalla had the answer. 'The arts have always been an integral part of ecology,' she said. 'We at the DIAC have encouraged themes of sustainability that are enmeshed with art and craft. Art and ecology may seem like separate worlds, but they come together beautifully through sustainable crafts and environmentally conscious creativity.' Art has always been a powerful tool for communication, self-expression, and cultural preservation, she added. When combined with eco-consciousness, it becomes a vehicle for environmental activism, education, and sustainability. Crafts, often rooted in traditional skills and handmade techniques, also align with ecological principles by promoting slow production, natural materials, and the reuse of resources. Diyali Sen Bhalla pointed out that in a world facing climate change, resource depletion and excessive waste, sustainability was no longer just an option — it was a necessity. 'But sustainability is not only about large-scale environmental policies or corporate responsibility. It's about the choices we make every day and how we, as individuals and communities, can contribute to society. And sustainability efforts are most effective, when communities come together.'
Hi Dubai
08-04-2025
- Sport
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Showcases Aquatic Excellence with Open Water and Water Polo Events at DIAC
The Dubai International Aquatics Championships (DIAC) continued to make waves with its open water swimming and water polo competitions, held on April 5 and 6 at the Hamdan Sports Complex. Part of the month-long aquatic showcase running from March 21 to April 20, 2025, these events were hosted in collaboration with the UAE Swimming Federation, Dubai Sports Council, and local academies. Drawing more than 380 athletes, the competitions spotlighted both endurance and team strategy in two of the sport's most demanding disciplines. The water polo tournament on April 5 featured teams from various countries, reflecting the sport's growing momentum across the region. The fast-paced matches highlighted skill and teamwork, drawing enthusiastic support from spectators. Following this, over 300 swimmers took to the waters for the open water races on April 5 and 6, braving long distances in tests of stamina and technique. DIAC, one of the Middle East's premier aquatics events, features five disciplines: diving, water polo, open water swimming, synchronised swimming, and swimming. With over 3,000 elite athletes from 40 countries participating, the championship serves as a global hub for aquatic sports talent. Abdullah Shahdad, Director of Hamdan Sports Complex, emphasised the importance of diversifying aquatic offerings. 'Hosting a full spectrum of disciplines, including open water swimming and water polo, reinforces our commitment to growing aquatic sports in the UAE and beyond,' he said. As the competition progresses, DIAC continues to cement Dubai's status as a leading international destination for world-class sports events. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Gulf Today
16-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
World record for longest abstract by Dubai International Art Centre
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer On March 8, Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC), in association with Namaste India Magazine, successfully set a world record for the longest abstract painting ever created, as recognised by the Asia Book of Records. The painting, which spanned an impressive 100 metres, was completed in only 45 minutes by 100 talented artists hailing from various nationalities, who had gathered at the Camel Uschi Farm, Al Qudra desert, to make the attempt. The event was not only a celebration of artistic expression, but also a testament to the power of unity and collaboration. Artists from around the globe came together to create the monumental piece of art, demonstrating how creativity transcends borders. Under the guidance of mentors, artists who took part were divided into 10 groups, with each group focused on contributing a section of the canvas; it made the painting a truly collective effort. The occasion was graced by the presence of Khaleel Abdulwahid, well known Emirati artist, who was the Chief Guest, and Ahmed Rukni, renowned Emirati artist, who supported the event as Special Guest. 'Their unwavering support throughout the event was invaluable,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla, DIAC Chairperson. Nassim Nasr, Lebanese artist known for pioneering 'Expressive Colour Minimalism', a blend of Abstract Expressionism, Colour Field, and Minimalism, also joined the event, to show his support for the endeavour. he record effort was organised under the leadership of Diyali Sen Bhalla; Sudhir Salunke, Chairperson of Namaste India Magazine; Sahira Ameen, Center Manager at DIAC; and Mohammad Shaheen, DIAC Administrator. DIAC and Namaste India Magazine extended their gratitude to the mentors who guided the artists, which included Diyali Sen Bhalla, Beena Samuel, Atul Panase, Pari Sagar, Alemayehu Goshime, Nahida Beshara, Zaahirah Muthy, Jivan Hovhannisyan, Sandeep Soni, and Sijin Gopinathan. Special thanks were given to the event's committee members Alia Amin, Mahnaz Rafiq Javid, Lita Mathews, Deepa Rajesh, Ian Fernandes, Mary Ann Pascual, and Prakash MN Nekraje, for their hard work and dedication in organising the historical event and making it a success. Volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes included Amna Ameen, Anam Javid, Sneha Rajesh, Ayysha Rzan, Rubeena Rashid, Sibel Yavuz, Nivethitha Jayaramu, Iqbal Kalarikkal, Irfan Zaheer, Maryam Ezzi, Muhammad Arslan, Ness Jhala, Afraz Abbas, Bhoomika Rajesh, Navas M, Tahir Kadwani, Abdul Hadi, and Rigash Raghavan. Host of the event, Ursula Musch of Camel Uschi Farm, provided the space and art support. Musch has been living in the Emirates for over two decades. Born in Germany, she developed a life-long passion for UAE culture and Bedouin traditions and established Camel Uschi Farm to share her love of camels, Arabian desert life and Bedouin event also received the assistance of Ambika Vohra, Art Curator, who played a pivotal role in curating and bringing together its artistic elements. The success of the record-breaking endeavour was also made possible through the contributions of its sponsors, who helped bring the idea to life. Najeeba Raval from Skribl Box sponsored paints and supported event organisation; Rekha Sunil from Creativa Middle East provided the canvases; Bhumika Maniyar from The Green Revolution gifted planters to participants; and staff members Soorya Jayarajan, Sandeep Kumar, Muhammed Adenan and Hom Bahadur Gurung, also provided invaluable support. Further sponsorship was received from Abdul Karim of Kalhour Oilfield Equipment Ltd, who provided Iftar boxes; Javid Mohammed from Octave Asset Management sponsored transport for artists and volunteers; Antas Ashok Kumar from Lazy Artist Gallery gave videography support; Vidisha Pandey from Indian Folk Art Corridor offered materials sponsorship; Mohammed Ameen from Amna for Furniture LLC supported in kind; Guddi Bajaj from Innara was gift sponsor; and Pari Sagar from Be Attractive, arranged media support. Media sponsors included DXB24 Live, Pardais News, The Times of UAE, and Middle East Masala Magazine. Khaleej Times elevated the event's reach and impact. 'Last but certainly not least, a heartfelt thank you goes to all the participating artists who made this record-breaking achievement possible,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla. 'It was their creativity and commitment to the project that led to the creation of the 100-metre canvas in just 45 minutes.' Participating artists included Aanya Rajput, Ahlam Ghazali, Alemayehu Goshime, Alia Amin, Amancia Sandra Menezes, Ambika Vohra, Anahita Ansaripour, Anashrita Henckel, Anastasie Akibode, Anuj Sarkar, Aquila Abdel Rahim, Arezoo Rahmdel, Asiya Hassham Malik, Askin Poyraz, Asma Syed, Aswin M Jayan, Atul Panase, Beena Samuel, Bhumika Maniyar, Chandralekha Dubey, Deepa David, Deepa Rajesh, Diyali Bhalla, Ellina Zhyzhyna, Fahimeh Hussein, Govind Janardhanan, Grace Dennis, Hanna Dennis, Huzefa Tariq, Iulaeva Elza Talgatovna, Jagruti Sanjay, Jaimee Felysse Reyes, Jivan Hovhannisyan, Justin Paul, Jyoti Devdhar, Keertana Venkatesan, Khadija Noor, Komal Jhala, Lancy Dennis, Lita Mathews, Maqsood Kayani, Mahi Wasfi, Mahnaz Ghafouri, Mahnaz Rafiq Javid, Mahesh Kadri, Mareena Susan John, Mona Biswarupa, Mona Moheb, Mridu Srivastava, Mukta Choubisa, Nachiammai Anandan, Naganandhini, Nahida Beshara, Narayan Kadavathu, Naureen Izhar, Pari Sagar, Prasanth Chandran, Paulomi Rana, Poonam Chauhan, Pradeep Kumar, Pradnya Rakesh Raje, Priyadarshini, Ramya Nair, Reinier Chirino, Reshma Parikh, Richa Shah, Rukmini Kalyani Nerella, Sakthivel Perumal, Salma Barakat, Sandeep Soni, Sanvi Sanjay, Seyedeh Fahimeh Saadatpour, Seyyedeh Hanieh Hosseini, Shabnam Sartipi, Shirley Wilkinson, Shahnaz Bhatia, Shashank Balaji Prasad, Sheetal Udayabhanu, Sijin Gopinathan, Solmaz Gholami, Suganya Devi Ramkumar, Suganya Narendran, Susan Himson, Susipadmadevi Aravind, Siana Avila Mendonca, Sudhir Salunke, Thomas Antony, Umananthini Gurushev, Ursula Musch, Vanishri Manikandan, Vishnu Subbiah Letchumanan, and Zaahirah Muthy. 'This event will go down in history as a monumental celebration of global unity and artistic collaboration,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla.
Hi Dubai
13-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai's Arbitration Hub Ranked Among Global Leaders in GAR 100 Report
The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) has secured notable positions in the prestigious GAR 100 Data Report, solidifying Dubai's role as a global arbitration hub. Published by the influential Global Arbitration Review (GAR), the report ranks Dubai as the fifth most popular arbitration seat worldwide by case volume, surpassing over 400 arbitration seats, including major cities like New York and Geneva. Additionally, Dubai ranks ninth globally in terms of the total value of arbitration cases, outperforming cities such as Seoul and Frankfurt. DIAC itself earned recognition as the tenth most active arbitration centre, based on the number of cases handled, and ninth for case value. This places DIAC ahead of more than 315 arbitration centres globally, reflecting the growing trust in Dubai's arbitration ecosystem. Notably, Dubai is the only arbitration seat and DIAC the only centre from the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region included in the top 10 rankings. Jehad Kazim, Executive Director of DIAC, emphasized that these achievements align with Dubai's ambitions outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. He attributed the centre's success to the strategic oversight of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, positioning DIAC among the world's top arbitration centres in the coming years. With over 5,000 cases handled, totaling more than AED 100 billion in value, DIAC continues to offer a robust legal framework for arbitration, attracting complex, high-value disputes. Recent reforms, including updated arbitration rules and an expanded board, ensure DIAC remains at the forefront of dispute resolution globally. News Source: Emirates News Agency
