Latest news with #MuhammadYusuf
Express Tribune
20-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
'Trying to sendas many pilgrims for Hajj'
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yusuf gives away the 'peace award' to MPA Masroor Nawaz Jhangvi during a ceremony in Islamabad. PHOTO: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf on Sunday said the government was trying to send as many pilgrims as it could for Hajj, adding that 10,000 more Pakistanis have been permitted to perform the pilgrimage privately. "We are trying to enable as many of the 179,210 pilgrims to travel for Hajj," the minister said while talking to a private TV channel. "Of that number, 50 per cent are going under the government scheme, and their arrangements are complete. Meanwhile, Ministry of Religious Affairs will start provision of vaccine to intending Hajj pilgrims from Monday (today).
Gulf Today
24-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
‘Reflections' show narrated personal journeys and universal experiences
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer 'Reflections – Stories That Matter' exhibition that recently closed doors at Mehromah Art House, turned the space into a hub for artistic storytelling. Jesno Jackson served as curator; the show was produced by Art4you Gallery. 16 artists from 12 countries took part in Reflections, with each of them speaking their story, to provoke a global conversation. The exhibition explored the power of storytelling, through visual art. A collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations, conveyed personal and culturally significant narratives with themes of resilience, identity, transformation and social impact, taking centre stage. Abir Ouertani's (Tunisia) ceramic works, Tree of Life and Blanket of Love, stood as testaments to nature's resilience and the interconnectedness of life. Tree of Life was a striking representation of grounding and growth, where gnarled roots emerged from a textured spherical base, evoking the depth and complexity of existence. Eric Afranie's picture of the camel. Blanket of Love portrayed the interplay of smooth and rugged textures; the narrative embodied both strength and vulnerability. Medusa and Poseidon by Rija Umar (Pakistan) re-examined Greek mythology. The pieces explored the intricate relationship between tragedy, fate, and power. The dual nature of Medusa's life — both feared and lamented — was picturised. It prompted the audience to reevaluate her story — not as a monster, but as a victim of fate and irresistible divine purpose. Poseidon, on the other hand, radiated might and majesty. Clarisse Meneghetti (Brazil) allowed spectators to enter a realm where shape is determined by emotion and movement. In Luminance, motionless waters mirrored the beauty of Sheikh Zayed Mosque; the painting served as a silent witness to its majesty. In Golden Sky, shining hues of dawn danced over changing dunes, briefly broken by the gallop of stallions. Eric Afranie's (Ghana) mosaic combined cultures, history, and sustainability. Shakiba Rabiei's composition. He is an African artist, located in the United Arab Emirates. Crafted from discarded leather and plastics, his expressive piece embodied narrative and environmental conscience. The artist's African roots and the wide deserts of the United Arab Emirates, were symbolised by the rough background of his work, made from discarded leather. Tatiana Lamiri's (Morocco/Russia) paintings Harmony and Light in the Darkness demonstrated her skill in fusing abstraction with emotion. Harmony reflected the interaction of opposing forces in life whereas Light in the Darkness, was a work that evoked perseverance and represented optimism in the face of hardship. Roya Vahidi (Iran) was engaged in a visual conversation on the intricacies of identity, connection and emotional depth, as offered by the pieces Human and Two Faces. A comprehensive investigation of unity in variety, Human depicted individuals with unique personalities who are connected by an unseen thread of shared existence. Two Faces looked into the duality of human emotions, uncovering the friction between social expectations and personal experiences. Artists and art supporters at the event. Vasilisa Eliseeva's (Russia) flower paintings captured the fleeting aspects of beauty and life. She urged viewers to perceive flowers as emotional and spiritual symbols, than as mere biological formations. Mehboobeh Shahnavas's (Iran) Moody was a series of hyper-realistic photographs that expertly captured youthful emotions. The juxtaposition of vibrant hues and delicate textures heightened the contrast between innocence and experience. Shakiba Rabiei's (Iran) 3D plaster modelling on wood and canvas enhanced with acrylics, became a physical representation of Shams Tabrizi's lyrical vision, in which the heart becomes an infinite vessel of experience. By expanding the approach to walls, she broke down barriers, enabling emotions to overflow surfaces. Jesno Jackson's (India) collection of landscapes Ethereal Horizons: Reflections of Tranquility demonstrated an understanding of nature's harmony and the emotional resonance of light, colour, and reflection. The artist's masterful use of colour palettes — from soothing blues and purples of twilight to the fiery oranges and reds of a desert sunset — reflected a sound grasp of atmospheric mood. Clasrisse Meneghetti depicts a race. Each painting asked viewers to reflect on what was both ephemeral and timeless in the natural world. Thauheeda Thameem's (India) abstract series captured the emotional journey of the human experience, providing a reflective and introspective visual journey. Elyazia Aljassmi's (UAE) oil paintings of a girl in various natural locations, was a moving examination of loneliness and connectedness to the environment. Tamara Noori's (Sri Lanka) reflections of cultural pride and resilience in Humble Culture and The Three Knights, captured Emirati heritage, offering an exploration of resilience in the midst of tradition and innovation. In Humble Culture, the depiction of an Arabian lady wearing intricately embroidered clothing, exuded grace and pride, while in The Three Knights, Tamara captured the symbolic power of Arabian horses, creatures that have long been a cornerstone of survival and prosperity in the desert. Labiba Ferhat's (Algeria) rich cultural legacy imbibed from Algeria and modern creative expression, were combined in her artworks. Her pictures skillfully reproduced the majesty of famous sites, from the architectural splendour of Hassan Pasha Mosque to the eternal attraction of the Casbah of Algiers. She invited audiences to interact with the past, arousing feelings of historical pride, in a modern context. The strong connection between Arab culture and camels was eloquently conveyed by Lucinda Holland's (UK) camel pictures. They captured various moods of the noble animal. Yaashi Khatanhar's (India) Regal Renaissance was a photography series that seamlessly connected two of history's most culturally rich periods: the grandeur of Mughal monarchy and the eternal spring of the Renaissance. Curator Jackson said that 'the core of 'Reflections' was an invitation to participate, listen, and question. Each artist's contribution addressed not just personal experiences, but also universal topics that unite mankind.'
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
08-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Art Dubai announces programmes, partnerships and projects for 2025
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer Art Dubai, the major platform for art from the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, has announced the first details of its programming and partnerships for its 2025 edition. This year's edition takes place at Madinat Jumeirah from April 18 – 20, with invitation-only previews on April 16 and 17. 2025 sees a new series of performances and site-specific interventions by Mexican artist Héctor Zamora, marking the launch of a new multi-year co-commissioning partnership between Art Dubai and Alserkal Avenue. A major new digital commission by leading Emirati artist Mohammed Kazem, presented by Julius Baer, is also on offer. A series of experiential commissions and installations examining the transformation of nature through technology and human experience, including site-specific works by Ania Soliman and Total Arts at the Courtyard, are also in the works. A series of new site-specific digital installations are debuting at Art Dubai Digital, including by Ouchhh Studio, Breakfast, Jacopo Di Cera and Hybrid Xperience. Art Dubai's flagship transdisciplinary summit, the Global Art Forum titled 'The New New Normal' commissioned by Shumon Basar and curated by Y7, will be presented and the second edition of Art Dubai's Digital Summit, titled 'After the Technological Sublime', will also be on show. Art Dubai's gallery programme this year comprises more than 120 exhibitors, including dedicated sections curated by Magalí Arriola and Nada Shabout (Art Dubai Modern); Gonzalo Herrero Delicado (Art Dubai Digital); and Mirjam Varadinis (Bawwaba). The A.R.M. Holding Children's Programme, which is the UAE's largest cultural education initiative having reached more than 30,000 children since its launch in 2021, will mark its 5th edition which, for the first time, features a collaboration between two artists: Peju Alatise, a widely recognised contemporary African artist who represented Nigeria at the 2017 Venice Biennale and Alia Hussain Lootah, Emirati artist, educator and co-founder of Medaf Studio in Dubai. Launching at Art Dubai before expanding in schools across all seven Emirates, their co-produced programme will celebrate local ecosystems, the cultural significance of water in the UAE's landscape and guide children to examine their connection with a crucial resource and its creative applications in art. Following their successful debut in 2024, Ouchhh Studio will return to Art Dubai this year, presenting MotherEarth, a large-scale AI-driven data sculpture that transforms raw climate data — including air quality, CO2 emissions, humidity levels, and temperature changes — into vivid sensory experiences. New York-based data and kinetic artist Breakfast presents Carbon Wake, a digitally controlled kinetic installation that transforms real-time energy data collected from cities around the world. Further highlights include Retreat, a new work by Italian artist Jacopo Di Cera, reflecting on the urgent need for climate action. Hybrid Xperience, a collective of artists, engineers and creatives based in Dubai, will present a large-scale kaleidoscope inviting audiences to visualise their dreams using artificial intelligence. Taking its title from the Arabic for 'electricity', Kahrabaa is a monumental site-specific installation by Ania Soliman that traces complex interconnections between technology, nature, and memory. Total Arts at the Courtyard (Fereydoun Ave, Shaqayeq Arabi and Dariush Zandi) will present Reconstructed Landscape, a new site-specific installation. The project transforms fragments of found objects from the mountains and urban environments of the UAE into an imagined terrain. The work invites reflection on the fragile relationship between humans and their environment. Emirati artist Mohammed Kazem's Julius Baer commissioned digital work titled Directions (Merging) places the coordinates of Dubai at the centre of the space, mirroring the emirate's evolution as a future city and a hub for global communities. The commission marks Julius Baer's 10-year partnership with Art Dubai. Piaget returns with a commission by Kuwaiti artist Alyamamah Rashed, which will feature in a new exhibition titled 'Play of Shape'. The largest arts conference in the Middle East and Africa, Art Dubai's Global Art Forum will this year examine how change keeps changing, often making everyday life feel more unsettling and unpredictable - than science fiction. The Forum will explore cultures and economies that are transforming chaos into progress. Speakers include celebrated architect Rem Koolhaas, artist Lawrence Abu Hamdan and Postpostpost. Taking place over three days, the second edition of the Digital Summit at Art Dubai brings together international and local industry leaders to explore the theme 'After the Technological Sublime'. Under the direction of Art Dubai Digital's curator Gonzalo Herrero Delicado, the summit discusses how art and technology address critical environmental, social, cultural, and political challenges. Art Dubai Collector Talks offers a platform for collectors while Art Dubai Modern Talks explores the cultural affinities and solidarities between West Asia, North Africa and Latin America. Art Dubai's Collector and Modern Talks are presented in partnership with Dubai Collection, the city's first institutional collection of Modern and Contemporary art. Further talks includes a new Conversations with Artists series and a new series of intimate conversations, presented by HUNA, delves into the lives and practices of leading cultural voices in the UAE. Art Dubai is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is held in partnership with A.R.M. Holding and is sponsored by Swiss wealth manager Julius Baer; the exclusive Watch and Jewellery partner is Piaget. Lifestyle developer HUNA is a partner of Art Dubai. The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is the strategic partner of Art Dubai and Art Dubai Digital and Madinat Jumeirah is the home of Art Dubai.
Gulf Today
01-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Shine of jewellery in shrine of education: AUS, L'ÉCOLE ally
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer As part of its commitment to global outreach and fostering transformative partnerships, American University of Sharjah (AUS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with L'ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, the globally renowned institution whose mission is to introduce the public to jewellery culture. The strategic partnership aims to bridge academia and the jewellery arts, offering AUS students and faculty access to industry expertise and hands-on learning experiences across L'ÉCOLE's three pillars: the history of jewellery, the world of gemstones and the savoir faire of jewellery-making techniques. The collaboration enables AUS students to have the opportunity to attend a variety of L'ÉCOLE Middle East's specialised courses and gain practical insights by participating in courses, workshops, talks, exhibitions and networking events. AUS faculty also will benefit from professional development and knowledge exchange through opportunities that emerge from L'ÉCOLE Middle East's global network and branches. The partnership has an academic cooperation aspect since it enables joint research projects, guest lectures and mentorship programmes. The agenda will also foster industry-academia engagement through co-hosted events. L'ÉCOLE Middle East hopes to engage with AUS students and faculty on present and future initiatives, to ensure a continuous exchange of knowledge and expertise that enriches both the academic and professional development of the AUS community. Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Tod Laursen, AUS Chancellor said: 'This agreement with L'ÉCOLE Middle East aligns with our strategic vision of providing students with global learning experiences, while ensuring our faculty remain at the forefront of industry knowledge and innovation. 'Partnerships like this reinforce AUS' position as a hub where academic excellence intersects with industry leadership, empowering our students and faculty to shape the future of creative and cultural industries.' Alessandro Maffi, President of Van Cleef & Arpels Middle East and India, said: 'The alliance of two esteemed institutions is a testament to Van Cleef & Arpels' values of transmission, providing access of the jewellery culture to the widest possible audience.' Sophie Claudel, Director of L'ÉCOLE Middle East, said that 'as 2025 is the UAE Year of Community, embracing this educational exchange exemplifies our commitment to fostering and engaging with different communities in higher education and research, to spread educational excellence and cultural collaboration. By bridging the gap between the academic world and the jewellery culture, we aim to inspire and empower the next generation of creatives, providing them with unparalleled access to knowledge and expertise in jewellery craftsmanship, art history and gemology.' AUS is known for its strategic partnerships and global collaborations. The university works closely with industry leaders, private and governmental entities and academic institutions, to create opportunities that add value to its academic environment and support student and faculty development. The partnerships elevate the university's position as a leading institution that connects education with industry, empowering its community to contribute to regional and global progress. AUS was founded in 1997 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikh Sultan articulated his vision of a distinctive institution against the backdrop of Islamic history and in the context of the aspirations and needs of contemporary society in the UAE and the Gulf region. Grounded in principles of meritocracy and with a strong reputation for academic excellence, AUS has come to represent excellence in teaching and research; it is accredited internationally and recognised by employers globally for developing graduates equipped with the knowledge, skills and drive to lead in the new millennium. AUS puts value on learners who are driven not only by academic success, but also on those who embrace its dynamic campus life that embodies ideals of openness, tolerance and respect. The combination of academic excellence and community spirit ensures the uni is filled with world-class faculty and students, who become innovators, thinkers, contributors and leaders of today and tomorrow. Founded in Paris in 2012 with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels, L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts is an initiation school, open to everyone, with no special prerequisites. L'ÉCOLE targets absolute beginners as well as enlightened amateurs, veteran collectors and those with a curiosity for the world of jewellery. In line with its worldwide locations, L'ÉCOLE established its Middle Eastern campus in Dubai at d3 in 2024. The other 4 permanent locations are in Paris (Place Vendôme and Grands Boulevards), Hong Kong and Shanghai. Its courses, indicated above, are taught by art historians, gemologists, jewellers, artisans, jewellery historians, lapidaries, and Japanese lacquer and grand feu enamel experts. The classes are all practice-based and students are encouraged to experiment with innovations, skills and tools, guided by their lecturers. L'ÉCOLE also offers activities such as exhibitions, books publishing, videos, podcasts, as well as in-person and online talks. Creative workshops have also been created for children and teens. All proceeds from L'ÉCOLE Middle East's public courses and talks are donated to Dubai Cares to support youth education programmes - a fulfilment of its commitment to social responsibility and youth empowerment. Van Cleef & Arpels is a French luxury jewellery company founded in 1896 by Dutch diamond-cutter Alfred Van Cleef and his father-in-law Salomon Arpels, in Paris.
