Latest news with #SafaPeshimam
Gulf Today
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Art is Life by Hayat Arts opens at Cross Borders Art Gallery, Dubai
Dubai witnesses one more celebration of art and expression by Hayat Arts as the art promotion body, in collaboration with Cross Borders Art Gallery, has launched its group exhibition, Art is Life (July 5 — 19). Curated and led by Safa Peshimam, Co-founder of Hayat Arts, the event projects a powerful connection between creativity, culture, and community. The exhibition serves as a bold testament to the enduring relationship between human emotion and artistic expression. Walls are adorned with evocative brushstrokes, compelling textures and remarkable forms, each piece echoing the truth that art is not merely decoration or ornamentation, but is the very fabric and spirit of life. On inaugural evening, the gallery was filled with a mix of artists, collectors, media and VIPs, who were brought together through their shared commitment to art and culture. Distinguished guests included Yaqoob Al Ali, Sultana Kazim, Ahmed Al Awadhi (Rukni), Nada Al Barazi, Atul Panase, Mohammed Ali, Anjani Prakash Laitu, and Reema Alwawi, whose presence underlined the significance of the occasion. The evening commenced with the announcement of winners from MUSE 2025, Hayat Arts' global online art competition. Jury member Nada Al Barazi's contributions were particularly acknowledged, for her thoughtful curation of winners from over 30 impactful entries. Composition by M. Jacob Honest Raj. Winners of MUSE 2025 were third place (Abstract) Khushboo Mishra; (Nature) Andleeb Khan; second place (Abstract) Fatima Ahmed; (Nature) Nandana Suresh; (Pen Art) Radha Bhatia; (Portrait) Daria Adveena; first place jointly awarded by Yaqoob Al Ali, Nada Al Barazi and Sultana Kazim (Abstract) Silvia; (Nature) Yamuna Menon; (Pen Art) Jaimee Reyes; (Architecture) Edcel Cabalan; (Portrait) Avigyan; (Sculpture) Ratna Pattik and (Photography) Yashi Khatanhar. 'The true essence of Art is Life emerges in the works of the participating artists — they are visionaries who have infused their hearts and stories into every piece,' said Safa Peshimam. Artists include Asma Mehmood, Asma Nusrin, Avigyan Bhattacharya, Edcel Cabalan, Haya Khan, Irudhayanathan Thangaraj, Jaimee Reyes, M. Jacob Honest Raj, Maitha Bin Shahdoor, Nandana Suresh, Nazim Ambalath, Nazmin Rasheed, Radhika Pujari, Rooma Eejaz, Safa Hajjaji, Safa Hashim, Safa Peshimam, Sarah Peshimam, Saliha Hanif, Sania Yousaf, Ulyana Okava and Yamuna Menon. Criss-crossing lines in Nazim Ambalath's work. Asma Nusrin is an architect and artist. Her artworks are marked by a poetic and concept-driven style. Through her creations, she aims to produce pieces that are bold in their message and visually compelling. Thangaraj is a visual artist recognised for his work across portraiture, still life, and abstract styles. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts (Painting) and having completed a teacher training course at Pondicherry University, India, he combines a strong academic foundation with expressive creativity. Now based in the UAE, his artwork has been exhibited in both solo and group exhibitions at international levels. Currently, he serves as an art teacher at The Indian International School – DSO, Dubai, where he continues to inspire young artists while actively engaging with the contemporary art scene. Jacob was born and raised in a small coastal village in South India. He spent his early years beachcombing and assisting his father with his modest seashell business. With a background in graphic design and a thriving career in Dubai, he has seamlessly carried his roots into the heart of a fast-paced urban life. He creates seashell art that mirrors the beauty and complexity of human life, each piece being a delicate fusion of memory, nature, and emotion. Known as an Ocean's Artist, he saturates every creation with the soul of the sea. Deep colours of Radhika Pujari's artwork. Nazim was born in 1962 in Ambarnath, Maharashtra, India. With a Fine Arts degree from a prestigious Indian college, he balanced careers in both art and advertising, forging a path that also led him to explore photography, music, and motivational speaking. Now based in Dubai, he continues to manage his business and freelance, using his diverse skills to create inspirational and impactful work. He would like his art to serve as a powerful tool for social change — each canvas carrying messages that challenge norms and sparks dialogue. This is his evolving legacy. Radhika is a self-taught Indian artist whose vibrant canvases reflect a deep passion for storytelling through texture, symbolism, and emotional nuance. With a keen interest in acrylics, mixed media, and mcil, her art attempts to bridge traditional and contemporary forms, celebrating both the richness of identity and the meditative quality of personal reflection. Her recurring motifs include natural elements, divine animals, rural nostalgia, and spiritual tranquility. Guests at the opening night had the opportunity to engage in person with the artists, learning about the personal journeys and emotions behind each creation. The atmosphere was homely; Cross Borders Art Gallery space has a family feel. It is not a cold, commercial place. Hayat Arts Co-founders Sarah Peshimam (left) and Safa Peshimam. But the occasion was not only about art — it was also about connection, the exuberance of artistic voices, the courage to express oneself, and the collective power of the creative community. 'Art is Life is more than an exhibition — it is a movement,' said Sarah Peshimam, Co-founder of Hayat Arts. 'It is a call to remember that even amidst uncertainty, beauty endures and will realise itself. It underscores that storytelling is sacred and that every brushstroke, every frame and every vision, matters hugely.' As the evening passed into night, the popular opinion was that the exhibition was not simply an art showcase or a platform for artistic gathering, but was the collective heartbeat of the UAE's vibrant artist community.
Gulf Today
29-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Hayat Arts hosts show honouring Ramadan, marks first anniversary
In a celebration of the Holy Month of Ramadan, arts promotion body Hayat Arts, in collaboration with Reem Art Gallery, hosted the IMAN 2nd Edition Group Art Exhibition. It brought together a diverse community of artists, cultural enthusiasts and art supporters. The show was hosted by Safa Peshimam, co-founder of Hayat Arts. Held in honour of the spiritual values of faith, unity, generosity and peace, the IMAN exhibition showcased a collection of artworks reflecting the spirit of Ramadan, through the universal language of art. The evening commenced with a welcome address from Safa Peshimam; it was followed by acknowledging the presence of dignitaries, who added grace and significance to the event. They included Sultana Kazim; Ahmad Al Awadhi Rukni; and Anjini Prakash Laitu. The highlight of the evening was the felicitation of the artists, whose work captured the emotional and spiritual beauty of the Holy Month. They included Aida Kalaie; Avigyan Bhattacharya; Banashree Sengupta; Behnaz Zohouri; Dalia Samaa; Dr. Ana Stjelja; Edcel Cabalan; Georgina Burguete; Jaimee Reyes; Rooma Eejaz; Subhani Shaik; Yashi Khatanhar; Sarah Peshimam; and Safa Peshimam. Each artwork offered was a personal interpretation of spirituality, reflection and connection to the divine, aligning with the spirit of Ramadan. 'May this exhibition be a celebration of art, culture and compassion, and may it serve as a reminder of the light we can all share with the world,' said Safa Peshimam, during her closing remarks. A model displays a dress. The evening concluded with an art tour. 'The IMAN 2nd Edition Group Art Exhibition stands as a testament to Hayat Arts' commitment to fostering creativity, inclusivity and community through meaningful artistic experiences,' said Sarah Peshimam, co-founder of Hayat Arts. At another event, Hayat Arts marked its 1-Year Anniversary with a bouquet of art, fashion and community initiatives. Titled The One, the programme was held at Cross Borders Art Gallery. 'The One is not merely a celebratory occasion, but a testament to the remarkable journey that Hayat Arts has travelled during such a short span,' said Safa Peshimam. 'This electrifying evening, filled with passion, inspiration, and an overwhelming spirit of artistic collaboration, stands as an undeniable statement of the power of art and its ability to unite diverse communities.' Amidst the presence of prominent dignitaries, renowned artists, fashion designers and a supportive audience of art lovers, The One was noted for its impeccable organisation, high-calibre presentation and the large number of attendees, who had gathered under one roof to celebrate artistic excellence. Ahmad Al Awadhi Rukni with his work. Appreciation was extended to Fawad for providing gallery space and to Rayan, for his kind assistance. Artists and art supporters included Yaqoob Al Ali; Sultana Kazim; Hiba; Claudia Pinto; Nada Al Barazi; Tessy Koshy; Ahmad Al Awadhi Rukni; Atul Panase; Abeer Abdullah; Sumayra; Mohammed Ali; Anjini Prakash Laitu; Mai Nassr; and Dr. Mariam Shaikh. The night unfolded with a fashion showcase, the Hayat Arts Fashion Show, which blended artistic expression with haute couture. Amanda Kuruvita's collection was marked for its elegance, creativity and storytelling, through kaftan fashion. THV Couture then took the runway, presenting designs in traditional wear. To underscore that art has always been about conversation and a dialogue that transcends boundaries, Hayat Arts organised a panel discussion to complement the art and fashion show. Led by Musab Shaikh, editor of a luxury art and creative magazine, and an artist, art enthusiast and poet, the discussion featured industry luminaries Claudia Pinto, Atul Panase, Nada Al Barazi, and Abeer Abdullah; they spoke about the rapid ascent of Hayat Arts in the UAE's art world. Their insights on inclusivity, art-meets-fashion collaborations, and the platform's transformational impact on the industry, initiated pop-up dialogues on the sidelines. Mai Nassr with her composition. Atul Panase with his watercolour work. The launch of the first Hayat Arts Coffee Table Magazine then took the stage. The volume is a visually rich publication that encapsulates the voyage of Hayat Arts, touching on art thoughts. It also honours art professionals who contribute to the art ecology of the Emirates. Featured artists in the inaugural edition were recognised for their work, which spans diverse themes and techniques. They include Aakanksha Kshatriya; Edcel Cabalan; Faezeh Mohammed; Fatima Ahmed; Jaimee Reyes; Neda Godrazi; Radha Bhatia; and Waaris Hasan. 'Artists have always been the soul of Hayat Arts, and the evening is a celebration of their talent, resilience, and boundless creativity,' said Safa Peshimam. From painters and sculptors to digital artists and calligraphy masters, the room was filled with individuals whose art has made notable contributions to the art scene. Honourable guests led the way in recognising the gifted individuals. The energy in the room was electric and the applause that filled the space, acknowledged each artist's drive and hard work. MUST MUST: Safa Peshimam (left) and Sarah Peshimam. A surprise element of the evening was the launch of 'Behind the Fashionable Drapes' volume authored by Parvez Ahmed. It is an insightful literary work celebrating fashion, art, and storytelling. The Allegiance Award was bestowed on Edcel Cabalan — a dedicated artist, and an integral part of Hayat Arts since its inception. Special recognition was given to DXB 24 LIVE – Media Partner; Harshavardhan Ashok – Photography Partner; and Aafrin Fatema and Viktoriia Platner – Makeup artists. Partners unable to be present, including Clayed by Rasha (Gifting Partner), SDLuxury Magazine (Magazine Partner), UAE Stories (Media Partner), and The Times of UAE (Media Partner), were also remembered. The night culminated in an immersive art trek where guests were taken on a tour through the creations of 25 artists, hailing from around the world.
