Latest news with #WorldArtDubai2025
Hi Dubai
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
World Art Dubai 2026 Dates Announced as 2025 Show Honors 16 Prize Winners
World Art Dubai 2025 (WAD) wrapped up its final day on Sunday, April 20, at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) with an awards ceremony honoring artists and galleries in 16 categories. The prize ceremony marked the end of a successful 11th edition, which brought together 400+ artists, 120+ galleries, and 10,000+ artworks from 65 countries across Hall 1 and Zabeel Halls 1-3 of DWTC. The closing day saw a lively turnout of families and art lovers enjoying a packed agenda of workshops, including urban sketching and pottery at the WAD Studio, and bag tufting at the Textile Hub, a new feature that brought together 14 textile artists from nine countries. Three pop-up performance zones around the four halls created focal points of live music and art, including the sculpting of a life-sized face and head by Artezaar artist Jude Obozuwa. The entertainment programme closed with the audience donning headphones for a 'silent' show by European synth-pop duo, close to Monday. Closing the evening was a ceremony of awards across 16 categories, which included a Future Artist Award for primary and secondary pupils who imagined a creative vision of the world 50 years from now. The schools were gifted cash and workshops worth AED 1,000 by StuDIYo Lab. The Artist in Residence Awards saw two international artists win a residency at Rove Hotels and Radisson Red Dubai Silicon Oasis, during which they'll produce artworks inspired by their stay. This edition of WAD also marked the inaugural ANAX Art Award, introduced by the show's official property sponsor, ANAX Developments, to honour excellence in Emirati art. The award celebrates the growing cultural identity of the UAE and the intersection of artistic innovation with luxury design. Hend Rashed [CO1] was named the winner and will create a piece of art for an ANAX Property. Kanwar Singh, CEO of ANAX Developments, commented: ANAX Developments is honoured to present the ANAX Art Award at World Art Dubai, celebrating Dubai's rich cultural heritage and showcasing exceptional Emirati talent. This initiative bridges the worlds of art and luxury real estate, highlighting the deep connection between culture and design. In alignment with World Art Dubai's vision, the award reflects ANAX's dedication to boundless creativity and innovation. By supporting local artists, we are not only shaping our brand's cultural identity but also strengthening our connection with Dubai's community. This endeavour transcends art and design; it aims to tell a story that embodies the aspirations of the UAE. Sixteen categories were presented to outstanding talent across the show, with four key titles already announced during Friday night's VIP celebration. These were: ● Best Artist: Dhuha Al Khdhairi ● Best Emerging Artist: CubixArt ● Best Gallery: AN Inc. ● Best Artwork: Mualaqat Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Asma Al Sharif, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, said: For over a decade, World Art Dubai has championed both emerging and established voices across the globe. We're proud of the platform it continues to provide and are excited for its return in 2026 with even more creative energy and global participation. Looking ahead, organizers confirmed that World Art Dubai will return from Wednesday, April 29, to Sunday, May 3, 2026. With fresh names, inspiring artworks, and expanded features in the pipeline, the countdown to the 12th edition begins now. World Art Dubai 2025 is brought to you with support from legal sponsor Knightsbridge Group and official property sponsor ANAX Developments. Dates: April 17–20, 2025, at Dubai World Trade Centre
Gulf Today
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
From Betul to Dubai: Sarla Tated's inspirational life in art and service
DUBAI: The grand halls of the Dubai World Trade Center sparkled and radiated with creativity and cultural brilliance during World Art Dubai 2025 (Apr. 17 – 20). One of the region's prestigious and most attended art exhibitions, among over 10,000 artworks and over 400 artists representing 60 plus countries, was Sarla Tated from India. She is a 69-year-old artist and humanitarian hailing from Betul, Madhya Pradesh. Her participation in the art fair was not only a proud moment for her – she has overcome health issues which might have laid low less strong individuals - but also for the Indian art community. Her life in art and service has been a voyage rooted not only in artistry, but also selfless social service. Sarla Tated's artistic journey began more than 60 years ago in the small town of Betul in Central India. Her early inclination towards art developed into a lifelong passion, which she nurtured through years of practice, learning, and perseverance. A horse bursts out of its harness. Besides her skill with the brush, her artworks narrate stories, blending vivid imagination and sincere emotion. She has mastered the use of oil and acrylic mediums, and crafts both abstract forms and realistic compositions. Among her most admired pieces are those depicting horses — full of energy, grace, and thundering motion — as well as works inspired by European techniques and motifs. Her artworks are not confined to galleries. They live in places where emotion and remembrance are deeply embedded. One of her paintings hangs in a cancer hospital established by late Indian movie star Sunil Dutt, in memory of his wife Nargis Dutt, who died of cancer. The hospital serves not just as a medical institution, but also as a space of hope, where Sarla's artworks comfort, inspire and empower. Another of her paintings is displayed in the residence of Arjun Singh, late Indian Minister of Human Resource Development. These placements highlight the respect and admiration her work commands, not only in artistic circles, but also among national leaders and institutions. Sarla Tated holds MA and LLB degrees: the humanities and law combination reflects her intellectual preparation and diverse interests. Her academic background has enhanced her ability to understand the world through a broader social angle and focused artistic lens. A peacock displays its colours. Beyond art, Sarla has devoted a significant part of her life to social work. For the past 27 years, she has been an active member of Mahavir International, a renowned socio-charitable organisation. In her current role as Zone Chairperson and Trustee, she leads various initiatives focused on healthcare, education, and women's welfare. Her service includes organising free medical camps, distributing essential resources to the underprivileged, and empowering women in rural areas through skill-based programmes. She believes that education and creativity should go hand-in-hand to shape a better society. Her paintings mirror this belief, since they often touch on themes of strength, resilience, and humanity. She has exhibited her work in numerous platforms in India and internationally. 'Each exhibition is a chapter in her ever-evolving story — a story of perseverance, passion, and purpose,' says her daughter Richa Jain, who is also an artist. 'From small town showcases to global galleries, her journey is a living testament to the idea that true talent transcends boundaries.' Richa says her mother's presence at World Art Dubai 2025 was not only a personal milestone, but also a symbol of how Indian artists — especially senior women artists — are gaining recognition on international stages. At World Art Dubai, Sarla's paintings pulsed with vibrant realism and cultural soul. Viewers were drawn to their unapologetic realism, their texture and the firmness of the brushstrokes. Equine black and white. Sarla Tated's art and life journey reminds us that genuine art is not just what is seen on canvas — it is also how the artist has chosen to live, give, and uplift others through his or her talent. Katie Carey has this to say about the role of artists in society ( 'Every artist,' she says, 'plays a different and necessary part in contributing to the overall health, development, and well-being of our society. Creative thinkers and makers provide their communities with joy, interaction, and inspiration, but they also give thoughtful critique to our political, economic, and social systems — pushing communities to engage thoughtfully and make steps toward social progress.' 'An artist's role is almost that of an Alchemist — capable of transforming a few humble materials into objects which are imbued with spiritual and aesthetic value and then possibly also material value,' adds Aleta Michaletos. 'My role is to offer through my art a message of hope to society, my community and the world at large.' Sarla Tated is an Indian artist. Sarla Tated's event at World Art Dubai was honoured by the presence of Yaqoob Al Ali, Executive Director & Private Advisor to the Office of Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum; Al Ali also graciously accepted the invitation to be Chief Guest. Also present were key dignitaries like Asma Al Janahi, leading UAE Government official and Bijender Singh, Head of Chancery & Consul (Protocol, Welfare & Culture), Consulate General of India, Dubai. Their presence was an acknowledgement of the commitment of artists like Sarla Tated, whose work bridges generations, geography, genres, art and service. World Art Dubai is an eclectic melting pot of artistic styles. It offers a blend of contemporary, modern, and traditional art, from emerging artists, pop-art icons and fashion art disrupters, to experimental expressionists and fine art and photography practitioners.
Gulf News
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Art beyond boundaries: Zayed University students reflect on movement, memory and light at World Art Dubai 2025
Three young Emirati women explore personal and cultural narratives through art. Last updated: Dubai: At World Art Dubai 2025, the spirit of discovery is alive in every brushstroke, shadow, and beam of light. Among the diverse global voices taking center-stage this year are three rising Emirati artists from Zayed University—each offering a deeply personal lens into themes of identity, intuition, memory, and cultural storytelling. In an exclusive interview with Gulf News, we speak with Shamsa Al Ashram Al Falasi, Reem Jaber Al Khoori, and Reem Alraeesi, who share the inspirations behind their showcased works—ranging from intuitive abstraction and childhood memory to architectural storytelling. Through photography, painting, and laser-cut design, these young creatives are not only shaping the future of Emirati art but also inviting us into their worlds, one detail at a time. Shamsa Al Ashram Al Falasi is a multidisciplinary artist based in Dubai. Her work moves between the intuitive and the intentional, using acrylic and technical pens to explore the language of movement, stillness, and unbecoming. Rooted in practices of introspection and embodied dance, Al Falasi's art becomes a kind of translation—where gesture becomes form, and form becomes a bridge between the physical and the spiritual. Q: What inspired the work you're showcasing at World Art Dubai this year? A: 'Sol' reflects a personal journey expressed through intuitive dance. In this movement, I embrace playfulness and spontaneity, allowing myself to explore freely. I began to wonder—what would it feel like to be the sun? How would I move? Guided by those questions, I channeled that energy into the piece, grounding each gesture with intentional strokes of black acrylic—translating motion into mark-making on paper. 'Source Code' is inspired by the structure of circuits and the language of code. I express this concept through asemic writing—marks that suggest meaning without relying on conventional language. I don't fully understand the drawing in a literal sense, but I can feel it—like a circuit pulsing with information, transmitting something just beyond words. Q: How does your art reflect your journey as an artist or your connection to the UAE? A: My art reflects my authenticity—an act of seeing through my own eyes and stepping into the unknown. I create intuitively, allowing each piece to unfold as it will, and in doing so, I come to know myself more deeply. The process is sacred and spiritual, a space where I feel like a vessel for something greater moving through me. It's not about reaching a specific outcome, but about the journey itself. That's where the pleasure lies—in the in-between, where I feel both lost and found. Q: What themes or messages do you hope visitors take away from your pieces? A: This piece encourages you to look twice—what you notice at first might shift the second time around. It's about the subtle things that reveal themselves when you're truly present. At its core, the work explores a return to source—a quiet state of pure consciousness. It's an experience of peeling back the layers and sensing what exists beyond thought, beyond form. Q. Can you walk us through your creative process—from blank canvas to finished piece? A: My creative process is full of chaotic energy—that's how I like it. It often begins with the right playlist and a cup of coffee. Before I start, I move my body to music to get into the flow. I prefer to work on the floor, sitting close to the ground—it helps me feel more connected, more present. I rarely plan what I'm going to create. I just grab my paint and let the first stroke land wherever it wants to. From there, I follow the movement, surprising myself as I go. I don't like to force anything. If the canvas feels like it needs space, I step back. I observe, or let my attention drift and just exist for a while. Then I return—each time seeing something new. Sometimes I know when a piece is finished. Other times, it feels like it can never really be finished—only left, just as it is. Reem Jaber Mohammad Al Khoori, 22, is an emerging Emirati artist based in Dubai. She is currently a senior at Zayed University, majoring in Visual Arts at the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises. Since childhood, Al Khoori has used art as a way to express her emotions. Her artistic journey began in third grade when she started taking after-school art classes—an experience that inspired her to pursue a career as an artist. Her work often explores themes of identity, memory, and childhood. Al Khoori is particularly drawn to film photography, digital photography, and printmaking. Her current goal is to graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts and pursue a career in photography. Al Khoori's lifetime goal is to inspire people through her artwork—especially through the lens of photography. Q: What inspired the work you're showcasing at World Art Dubai this year? A: The inspiration behind 'My Second Home' comes from my grandparents' house and the concept of the everyday. This black-and-white photography series explores memory and personal history through familiar objects. I focused on shadows and reflections to evoke emotion and meaning. The photo on display was taken in my mother's room at my grandparents' house—a space full of warmth and comfort. Just looking at the chair brings back flashbacks of good memories. Q: How does your art reflect your journey as an artist or your connection to the UAE? A: Childhood, memory, and emotion are recurring themes in my work. As an artist, I'm deeply influenced by my surroundings and personal experiences. These elements ground my practice and help me connect to my roots here in the UAE. Q: What themes or messages do you hope visitors take away from your pieces? A: I want my art to tell a story—something that's visually engaging but also emotionally resonant. I hope viewers feel a sense of connection, even if their memories are different. Art has always given me a voice and a way to express my emotions creatively. I hope to inspire others to do the same. Q: Can you walk us through your creative process—from blank canvas to finished piece? A: My process begins with research. Once I settle on a theme, I choose a medium and look for reference images that inspire the composition. I create a mock-up to visualize the final outcome. From there, I begin creating the actual work—making sure each piece is meaningful to me and, hopefully, inspiring to others. Q: Are there any materials or tools you've recently discovered that have changed the way you work? A: In 2023, I rediscovered film photography and learned how to develop film in the darkroom. It quickly became a passion of mine. I've loved photography since childhood, but this analog process reignited my excitement and inspired me to create hybrid series combining film and digital. I also discovered printmaking that same year—specifically drypoint printing—and it's become another technique I really enjoy exploring. Reem Alraeesi, 18, is pursuing Bachelor of Architecture Zayed University, currently in the first year. She is passionate about exploring light, materiality, and cultural motifs through architectural storytelling. Q: What inspired the work you're showcasing at World Art Dubai this year? A: My piece, Light of the Dawn, is inspired by the soft, atmospheric quality of natural light as it filters through mountainous landscapes. I was drawn to the poetic interplay between light, shadow, and form, and how this can be expressed architecturally using transparent materials, gold accents, and cultural motifs. Q: How does your art reflect your journey as an artist or your connection to the UAE? A: As an Emirati architecture student, I'm deeply connected to both tradition and innovation. My work reflects this duality—merging digital precision and fabrication techniques with ornamentation and symbolic storytelling rooted in culture. It represents my journey of learning to express identity through design. Q: What themes or messages do you hope visitors take away from your pieces? A: I hope viewers feel a sense of serenity and curiosity—drawn into the balance between structure and softness, light and material. Light of the Dawn explores how architecture can become a vessel for cultural narrative, emotion, and connection, even on a miniature scale. Q: Can you walk us through your creative process — from blank canvas to finished piece? A: The process began with sketching a mountain chalet elevation and experimenting with how light could interact with it. I used Rhino for digital modeling, designed interlocking elements inspired by cloud forms, and laser-cut acrylic with gold detailing. The assembly process became tactile and precise—mirroring how concept and craft come together in architecture. I would like to thank my professor, Nahed Chakouf, for believing in my creative ideas and encouraging me to continue exploring them. Her support gave me the confidence to express myself freely through this work. Q: Are there any materials or tools you've recently discovered that have changed the way you work? A: Laser cutting and transparent acrylics opened up new possibilities for me—allowing me to explore light behavior and layering in a way that drawing alone couldn't. These tools helped me bridge digital design and physical expression with greater sensitivity and precision.
What's On
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
World Art Dubai kicks off today; here's everything you need to know
All things art this weekend at World Art Dubai… The region's largest contemporary art fair is back for another exciting edition. The 11th edition of World Art Dubai is here – you can't miss it, and we're going to tell you all the reasons why. The holy grail of art exhibitions will run from April 17 to 20, 2025. This year, brought to you in collaboration with Dubai Culture at the, World Art Dubai 2025 is all about empowering local and international creative prowess, bringing together over 400 artists and galleries from more than 65 countries. Expect to find entertainment, learning, and of course, affordable art for all. WAD will present more than 400 exhibitors – artists and galleries – from every genre of artistic expression, and thousands of visitors – collectors, industry leaders, and new creative opportunities, who will witness the variety – presenting a diverse array of artworks, from sculpture and watercolours to digital art and fashion art pieces. It's essentially the best platform for regional up-and-coming artists to find the spotlight and reach a global audience. While the number of exhibitors grow every year, with new participants adding to the portfolio, the repeat roster of exhibitors keeps growing as well, a symbol of how strong of a community WAD is. New in town… New pavilions will be making a splash at the exhibition this year, coming from Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Australia, Estonia, and the Philippines to join existing pavilions like Turkey and the UAE. Each will bring a different flavour of art, with Zimbabwe's vibrant modern art, Mongolia's nomadic culture, Australia's bold murals, the Philippines Southeast Asian artists' talent and cultural heritage, and Mexico's mirror sculptures, giving visitors a chance to explore a wider spectrum of art, while also fostering that cross-cultural spirit. Going more international than ever, attracting a wider audience of collectors, designers, and industry professionals. Dubai Culture… As partners, Dubai Culture are bringing an inspiring programme of art as well, featuring live demonstrations, interactive workshops, panel discussions, and youth art initiatives. Visitors can engage in calligraphy and printmaking workshops, watch Emirati artists create live, and explore a special showcase blending traditional crafts with contemporary innovation. Activations you can't miss… The Textile Hub is a new dedicated space celebrating the craftsmanship and storytelling power of textiles, featuring live demonstrations, workshops, and interactive exhibits that engage the community through hands-on experiences that enrich the UAE's art scene. For the first time, large-scale installations will transform Dubai's urban landscape with Public Art Initiative with One Central, ensuring that the fair's artistic influence extends beyond its footprint at DWTC, and democratising access to art. ensuring that the fair's artistic influence extends beyond its footprint at DWTC, and democratising access to art. The Artist in Residence Programme returns to promote Dubai as an art incubator hub, offering international exhibitors the chance to create and showcase their work here, providing them with studio space, resources, and exposure to a global audience, and elevating the UAE's artistic profile returns to promote Dubai as an art incubator hub, offering international exhibitors the chance to create and showcase their work here, providing them with studio space, resources, and exposure to a global audience, and elevating the UAE's artistic profile This year, China is the fair's Country of Honour for 2025, with a dedicated pavilion of traditional and contemporary Chinese art and live cultural performances to promote international dialogue within the UAE art scene World Art Dubai Tickets are available to purchase on Platinum List and the WAD website, starting from Dhs20. World Art Dubai, Zabeel Halls 1, 2, 3, World Trade Centre, Dubai, Apr 17 to 20, Dhs20, @worldartdubai Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Hi Dubai
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
The Countdown Is Over: World Art Dubai 2025 Opens Tomorrow at the Dubai World Trade Centre
The wait is over - World Art Dubai 2025 (WAD) opens its doors tomorrow (April 17) at the Dubai World Trade Centre and runs until Sunday (April 20). With 400+ artists, 10,000+ artworks, and participation from over 65+ countries, the popular retail art fair is back and bigger than ever. Whether you're an art lover, collector, curator, or simply craving inspiration, WAD 2025 is your ticket to a global gallery like no other. This four-day fair boasts 12 world pavilions, 54 live performances of music and art, 10 talks from industry experts, and with more than 10,000 artworks on display, from classic oil paintings to cutting-edge digital pieces, every aisle offers something to discover. Dedicated to fostering a global exchange of ideas, the 11th edition of the show welcomes everyone from industry professionals to families intrigued by art, and every type of visitor in between. Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre, remarks: This year's edition of World Art Dubai brings together exciting new features and returning favourites. From new pavilions for international artists and hands-on experiences for visitors to large-scale public installations and roaming entertainment, we've curated an unforgettable experience for you. We're calling on the media, art lovers, and the culturally curious to join us tomorrow. This is your moment to be part of something truly special. What to Expect at WAD 2025: ● New Pavilions: Explore art from 65 countries, including new for this edition, pavilions from Mongolia, Estonia, Zimbabwe, and Australia; and China, this year's Country of Honour. ● Emirati Favourites: The Emirati Pavilion also debuts, to celebrate its rich local heritage, featuring 50 pioneering Emirati artists including Mohammed Al Astad (Al Astad Art Gallery), Rashid Al Mulla, Abdulrahim Salim, Dr. Najat Makki, and many more. ● The Textile Hub: This vibrant hub by yarn specialists, Handmayk, will promote textile art in various mediums with 14 artists from nine countries. Immerse yourself in fun workshops, from tufting, weaving, embroidery, or innovative fabric manipulation. ● Dubai Culture's Creative Showcase: From calligraphy and pottery to youth art workshops and live performances, the Dubai Culture stand brings a powerful programme aimed at nurturing and celebrating the emirate's artistic talent. ● The Art Mentorship Programme: Returning for a second year with a 100% increase in mentees, Emirati artists are provided with a unique opportunity to collaborate with renowned mentors Rashid Al Mulla, Dr. Najat Makki, and Abdulraheem Salim. With anticipation building and tickets selling fast, World Art Dubai 2025 is set to deliver one of the UAE's most exciting cultural events of the year. Don't miss your chance to experience the world's art - all in one place. WAD 2025 is brought to you with support from our legal sponsor, Knightsbridge Group, and the official property sponsor, ANAX Developments. For a full list of exhibitors and to purchase tickets, please click here. Save the Date: April 17–20, 2025, at Dubai World Trade Centre April 17–20, 2025, at Dubai World Trade Centre Follow: @worldartdubai (Instagram) | WAD2024 (Facebook) | @WorldArtDubai (Twitter) News Source: Golinmena
