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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
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Colours of Arabian Sea: Atul Panase's art reflects both the UAE and India
'Creating something spontaneously, while establishing a meaningful conversation which can give happiness and a clear message to the masses, is the only way for me go ahead with art, regardless of the medium I use to express myself,' says Atul Panase, Brand Ambassador, Daniel Smith Artists' Materials and Co-curator, World Art Dubai, 2017 and 2018. He is based in Dubai and is a recipient of the Cultural Golden Visa. He has taken part in many national and international exhibitions, including at Fabriano in Acquarello, the biggest International festival dedicated to watercolour in Italy. He has curated many shows in the UAE and received multiple international awards, which includes the first prize in Watercolor Challenge-UAE Series organised for Channel 4 by Dubai International Art Centre (2002). Composition titled Swati. He has also won the Nikon Photography Award in Dubai. He has been a resident artist, attended innumerable art camps, given dozens of art talks and demonstrations and has won prestigious commissions from Dunhill-Switzerland (300 of his paintings were purchased by them; he won the contract beating 17 competitors from 17 countries) and Rice Perry Ellis Consultants, Dubai, among others. Recently, he was invited to an international watercolour event in Texas, USA, where he held a demo at the Fort Worth Art Community Centre. His art classes and workshops are appreciated both by students and art lovers. He has even held art workshops in the University of Socotra! During the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival in 2022, his watercolour portrait painting titled 'Purple Aura' was installed on Jebel Jais — the highest mountain in the UAE. It was a huge print of 40 square metres and was displayed on the occasion of the UAE National Day. Watercolour and Pen & Ink are his leading mediums, though he also works in pencil, charcoal, pastels and acrylics. Most of his artworks are portrait-based or are trendy/contemporary illustrations. Atul Panase draws his colours on Gulf Today's canvas Facing the world fearlessly. Why do you like colour and black and white? I love Nature; hence I love colours, because there is a natural connection between us and colours, as Nature is colourful. Different colours help to create a mood. I realise how the colours of walls of your home, studio or the place you visit, can change/enhance/uplift your mood. Black and white is the most favourite combination for me because it gives you a large number of greys, which can make the creation more soothing and meaningful. Many say that there is only one colour in the universe, which is Black! Black is the colour which never changes its nature, regardless the type, intensity or the colour of light. How does India and the UAE help you make art? India is the land of my birth and the UAE is the land of my work. I find a strong connection between the soil of my motherland and the sands of UAE. It is a connection of love, friendship, culture, tradition, food, music and fine arts itself, which have been nurtured with passion at many levels. In the domain of Nature. Can you tell us more about your brand ambassadorship? I am a proud brand ambassador and leader of Fabriano in Aquarello watercolour team of the UAE for the past ten years and also at Daniel Smith Artists' Materials. I was given the chance to build a team of talented watercolourists from the UAE at Fabriano in Aquarello in Italy, the biggest international watercolour festival in the world. So far, I have chosen 120+ artists from the UAE who come from over 10 nationalities and we have displayed our artworks not only in Italy, but in many other countries including USA, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, Australia and China. This team of watercolourists includes very professional and young budding talented artists too! As ambassador of Daniel Smith Artists' Materials, we have begun activities such as introducing an award, named the Daniel Smith Artists' Materials Award. I am also offering free demos and workshops for art enthusiasts to get the experience of Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolors, and also for them to learn a few new techniques. Work titled Hues of empowerment. What are the qualities needed for being a commissioned artist? To become a pro artist, one needs to work with the right mindset where you have to acquire the knowledge of that particular assignment and master many related subjects. One has also to produce high quality art pieces, besides meeting the given deadline. Apart from collectors' liking, what makes art collectible? That's a very subjective question as there are many forms of art and different types of artists as there are buyers! If your art showcases a unique approach, along with the use of unique techniques and is a very high quality finished artwork which can narrate an interesting story successfully adjusted to the price ... then the art is definitely a collectible one! Atul Panase with his watercolour work. How do you see yourself evolving in the next 25 years? Breaking my own barriers while setting new records in the form of bringing new techniques, working on new concepts, organising larger than life art events and yes, setting up my own studio, besides establishing a fine art college which can serve society in the most useful ways, are my tiny future dreams. They will help me to give back to the country I call my adopted motherland, the UAE, and show my gratitude for the opportunities given to me here!
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.'
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.
Gulf Today
21-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Arts and crafts fiesta hosted by art firm CreaSHions at DIAC
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer Boutique art firm CreaSHions curated an art and crafts event, Valentine's Fiesta (Feb. 13 – 15), at Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) located in Jumeirah, Dubai. The Fiesta was the 10th exhibition curated by CreaSHions and their second event themed on festivity, at the prestigious venue. The show brought artists, exhibitors and visitors onto a lively platform in the artistic ambience of DIAC. The exhibition featured not only paintings, but also hosted a range of stalls, exhibiting creative objet d'art and savories such as accessories, apparel, plant art, hand crafted items, home decor, food items and more. The common thread binding the participants was their sincere display of creativity and artistic fervour. Visitors found the exhibition unique in terms of the variety of contents and offerings, while exhibitors found the occasion rewarding and satisfying. The event added to the list of many collaborations between CreaSHions and DIAC; they complement each other in the field of art and creativity. Organiser Shilpi Dutta, Co-Founder of CreaSHions, said that the idea was to create a positive, happy and festive mood in an attractive locale, making use of the enjoyable weather, and centering around creativity. The works of local artists were showcased; it gave them an opportunity to present their talent and network in the art circles of Dubai, which is emerging as a global cultural epicenter. Shilpi said that 'it gives us immense pleasure and satisfaction to have achieved recognition and positive appraisal from the elite circle of art connoisseurs and make a positive impact on the art lovers of Dubai, within a short span of time. Every event that we plan and organise, has the common purpose of giving opportunity to the young and local talent pool of UAE-based artists and so far, each one of our events has been accepted very well. The accolades and positive feedback that we received for this event is a testimony to our success. 'I would like to thank our venue partner, DIAC, who have been consistently doing a great job of promoting art in Dubai tirelessly over decades and supporting endeavours by art firms such as ours, by providing a much needed platform. We are also ever grateful to our honourable and esteemed guests who always bless us by gracing every occasion with their presence.' The three day event saw more than two hundred guests visiting the exhibition. Marked by a grand inauguration ceremony on February 13, the Fiesta was well received by art lovers of UAE, with laudable enthusiasm and energy. The exhibition showcased about twenty paintings and twenty display stalls displaying a variety of art related products. Distinguished dignitaries and guests who graced the inauguration ceremony included Sultana Farouq Kazim; Laila Rahhal El Aftani; Ahmed Al Awadhi Rukni; Anjini Prakash Laitu; Kusum Dutta; Babli Singh; Tessy Koshy and Sijin Gopinathan. Participating artists and crafts people were Perihan Marwan Kamal; Jyoti Singla; Radha Bhatia; Reena Dhiman; Khadija Noor; Neema Rajesh; Smita Lahiri; Tiger Begum; Shivani Gokani; Nihad Ekhlas; Jignasha Modi; Neha Raheja; Minakshi Karn; Sofia Kaur; Jignyasa Patel; Vasanthi Kannan; Deeksha Handa; Ramya Sethuram; Gayathrie Kuppuswamy; Lakshmi S. Mantri; Arti Patalia; and Shohre Hadavand. Couturiers Tiger Begum, led by Prarthana, Pooja and Chandni, offered dresses they brought to the exhibition. The dresses, hung optimally to bring out their beauty to best effect, gently blew in the breeze. It was as though nature herself was promoting the display. Sofia Kaur's enchanting gemstones and accessories drew great attention. Kaur presented the products, both in finished and uncut forms. 'These stones are being shown in the form they were mined,' she said, pointing to one box. Self-taught artist Perihan Marwan finds her inspiration in Nature. She showed her works, which ranged in size from the miniature to the medium and large. Her butterfly paintings were specially noteworthy. Lita Mathews, who is also a teacher at DIAC, was the go to person for those whose jewellery needed repair. Her table was packed with instruments needed for mending jewellery. Artist Khadija Noor pointed out the desert rose she had painted. 'CreaSHions looks forward to continuing their journey to bring together artists and art lovers of Dubai and the UAE, through similar events and exhibitions in future,' said Shilpi. The mission of the art firm is to promote local talents, by providing a platform for excellence. CreaSHions deal in artworks and handicrafts (paintings, folk arts and sustainable handicrafts), have done art exhibitions in collaboration with different art galleries of Dubai and so far have curated exhibitions displaying artwork of 50+ artists. It has participated in World Art Dubai and other art festivals in Dubai. CreaSHions have also designed sets for professional stage dramas in Dubai, events which were attended by 200+ audience. CreaSHions also provides art consultancy for interior spaces, art products for home decor, hospitality sector and commercial offices. They provide customised paintings and sustainable handicraft products from the CreaSHions brand and offer special art decor of feature walls. In a short span of about five years from inception, the firm has made a mark in the art circles of Dubai. Each event and exhibition organised by it has attempted to be unique, different and innovative, whether in terms of the themes chosen, or the method of showcasing displays. Above all, CreaSHions strives to create a positive, cohesive and inclusive ambience, conducive to art making. Participants in its events have hailed from diverse nationalities, imparting a genuine cosmopolitan touch to the brand.
