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    Ambika Hinduja Macker on curating a multi-sensory odyssey in Dubai

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    Talk us through your background.
    For as long as I can remember, my imagination has shaped and guided me through life. As a child, I would lose myself in intricate daydreams, weaving together stories, colours, and emotions into entire worlds within my mind. At the start of my professional career, this creative instinct led me to filmmaking, where I learnt how to translate these visions into visual narratives. Over time, my artistic journey evolved beyond cinematic storytelling into the realm of art and design, where I found more tangible means to imbue the world with wonder through the transformation of space itself. Across these mediums, my work is united by my belief in inventive and uplifting self-expression to enrich the world around us. It’s why I named my firm Impeccable Imagination, grounding my work at the transformative intersection of human experience and the natural world.
    How did the idea for “The Sublime Nature of Being” come about?
    “The Sublime Nature of Being” stems from my fascination with the Sublime, that overwhelming sense of wonder that transcends words and logic, pulling us into a moment of pure awe and connection. The immersive art experience is my attempt to offer a tangible glimpse of this intangible feeling. Through carefully curated elements – art, sound, scent, and science – I’ve sought to create an environment where audiences can experience the majesty and harmony of nature. It’s a sanctuary designed to elevate the senses and spark an emotional resonance that lingers long after the moment has passed.

    How does the show explore the theme of transcendence beyond the material realm?
    By its very nature, the Sublime is an indescribable experience. Yet, it is this eternally elusive quality that makes the pursuit of sharing it so meaningful. Each featured artist has glimpsed the Sublime and is compelled to reveal what they can of their personal experience through their unique artistry. In their endeavours, we feel their spirit and the humbling purity of the cosmos. In this way, “The Sublime Nature of Being” captures the deeply personal yet universal longing for transcendent connection.

    “The core of my design philosophy is: Discovering beauty in simplicity”

    Talk us through the process of curating an immersive, multi-sensory experience.
    My curatorial process is deeply woven into the fabric of my life. It’s become an innate part of how I engage with the world, always seeking out works that captivate the senses, evoke wonder, and resonate with the fluid, ethereal beauty of nature. The artists featured in “The Sublime Nature of Being” were chosen from the ever-growing portfolio I’ve built through years of exploration. Their works are windows into their souls, reflecting our shared passion for the pursuit of peace and harmony only found in the natural world. Through careful curation, each artwork then synthesises into a dynamic conversation. Amidst the sculptures, installations, and other works of art, a multi-sensory dance of sound and scent gently guides audiences closer to the heart of nature’s healing powers. The space itself hums, inviting them to feel rather than simply observe “The Sublime Nature of Being.”
    Can you share some standout pieces and the inspiration behind them?
    And what emotions or responses did visitors take away from this experience? The natural world thrives on interconnectedness, an intricate web of profound and imperceptibly woven layers that continue to confound and inspire all who behold them. “The Sublime Nature of Being” was curated with this principle at its heart, ensuring that every featured element, whether an individual artwork, installation, or sensory component, retained its distinct identity while contributing to the grander, holistic journey of the immersive art experience. Conceptually, it is an organic symphony, shaped by the convergence of diverse materials, mediums, and artistic visions, as well as the unique perspective of each viewer. Audiences were encouraged to attune to their internal compass as they explored our sublime grounds, guiding themselves on an intuitive journey where the theme of elemental interdependence emerged naturally through the harmony of the exhibition as a living, breathing whole. I was so gratified to hear them share how moved they felt by the whole experience. They were humbled, uplifted, and inspired.
    How do you see this exhibition evolving or influencing future immersive art experiences?
    Since its first iteration in 2022, “The Sublime Nature of Being” has strived to create experiences where art, nature, and human perception converge in a way that transcends the chaos of daily existence. Communing with the Sublime requires slowing down, listening deeply, and allowing yourself the space to exhale. In that spirit, the next evolution of this immersive experience will reveal itself in time; however, I can say that its ultimate trajectory is indelibly linked to my personal, evolving journey. This latest version of “The Sublime Nature of Being” introduced elements of technology and wellness, as I am increasingly invested in exploring the intersection of innovation and well-being in my own life. As time marches on, I strive to remain open to the unexpected, buoyed by the belief that with pure intention, each step forward will lead to fresh insights from the cosmos.
    Can you talk about the significance of hosting this exhibition at ICD Brookfield Place?
    ICD Brookfield Place is an extraordinary venue, in sync with the vision of “The Sublime Nature of Being.” It’s a hubof innovation within the DIFC, a gathering place for change-makers within a building that is open to everyone. The indoor Summer Garden, where audiences assembled for our immersive experience, offered an incredible canvas for cultivating an indoor sanctuary of the natural world. I deeply appreciate ICD Brookfield Place’s ongoing support for innovative arts, culture, and sustainability. “The Sublime Nature of Being” feels at home here.

    How has the UAE played a pivotal role in championing you as an artist?
    I am grateful and honoured to have had H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of DubaiCulture and Arts Authority, and H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Tolerance and Co-existence, believe in my work and inaugurate “The Sublime Nature of Being” 2025 and 2022, respectively. The UAE has cultivated an environment where innovation thrives, encouraging creative visionaries to push boundaries by offering platforms for unique, ambitious artistic expression. As a proud resident of Dubai, I believe this country is truly defined by its dynamic energy, where bold concepts are welcomed and celebrated. It is a privilege to be part of this thriving creative ecosystem.
    This is The Design Issue – tell us more about your core design principles.
    The core of my design philosophy is: Discovering beauty in simplicity. Through Impeccable Imagination, my boutique art and design firm based in Dubai and Mumbai, I strive to create multi-sensory experiences, immersive spaces, and ethereal sculptures that seamlessly integrate nature, art, design, and now science while exuding a sense of serenity, balance, wellness, and timeless elegance. My work is deeply inspired by the rhythms, elements, and healing power of the natural world, which I translate into harmonious, contemporary creations. Sustainability is a key pillar, ensuring that the work contributes meaningfully to the world around us.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      How Art Dubai plays a pivotal role in transforming the region’s art scene

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      Benedetta Ghione, Executive Director at Art Dubai, on how Art Dubai creates high-impact art.
      Can you elaborate on the initiative that is Art Dubai?
      Art Dubai is the most significant global art gathering in the Middle East, and for the 2025 edition, the fair will spotlight around 120 galleries from over 40 countries across our four distinct gallery sections including Contemporary, Digital, Modern and Bawwaba. From performances, installations and experimental commissions from the likes of Mohammed Kazem, Héctor Zamora and Ania Soliman to talks as part of the Global Art Forum and the Digital Art Summit, there’s so much to see and experience during the fair from April 18 to April 2025 and preview days on 16 and 17 April. Plus, we support the arts and culture community year-round with many initiatives including the A.R.M Holding Children’s Programme and our professional development programme Campus Art Dubai, where we support aspiring art professionals.
      How has Art Dubai evolved since it first began?
      From our beginnings nearly 20 years ago, we have evolved into more than a week-long art fair. Art Dubai is now a major meeting point for the global art community of artists, collectors and institutions. As an incubator for a new generation of artists, we embrace an institutional responsibility to lead in innovation and thought leadership with arts and culture. Since we launched, we remain committed to giving a platform to artists from lesser represented geographies of the world, and approximately 76 percent of this year’s programme is drawn from MENA / South Asia.
      Can you expand on the key highlights from this year’s programme?
      Art Dubai is always evolving, and 2025 marks an evolution of the fair. First up, we’re launching a new programme with Alserkal Avenue, kicking off with renowned Mexican artist Héctor Zamora. Known for his bold, site-specific works, he’s bringing to Art Dubai a powerful performance exploring transformation and liberation; the performances at the fair will be complemented by a site-specific installation at Alserkal Avenue. We are also continuing to place strong emphasis on digital art and the impact of new technologies on creative practice.
      In the Digital Summit, themed ‘After the Technological Sublime’, under the direction of Art Dubai Digital 2025 curator Gonzalo Herrero Delicado, we will unpack how AI and digital art are pushing creative boundaries. We’re expecting one of the most dynamic editions yet, with bigger ideas, deeper conversations and even more ways to experience Art Dubai. Our Modern section offers something quite different than anywhere else in the world and this year sees its expansion to Latin American for the first time. Venezuelan artist Darío Pérez Flores’ (Mark Hachem) work will reflect common concerns and empathies between Latin America and West Asia and North Africa.

      “Art Dubai has established itself as an important institutional platform and a catalyst for Dubai’s cultural economy”
      ‘The New New Normal’ is a thought-provoking theme for this year’s Global Art Forum. What key discussions and ideas will it explore?
      This year the Global Art Forum will examine how constant change reshapes our world, making everyday life feel as unusual and unpredictable as science fiction. Throughout its nearly 20 years, the Global Art Forum has always been ahead of its time and is a hub for cultural dialogue and innovation. This year, it’s commissioned by Shumon Basar and curated by Y7 – the UK-based post-disciplinary duo Hannah Cobb and Declan Colquitt – so expect sharp insights and big ideas from some of today’s leading thinkers, technologists, artists and forecasters.
      In an era of rapid digital transformation, how does Art Dubai ensure that technological innovation is balanced with artistic integrity?
      From early digital art pioneers to new emerging names, Art Dubai Digital has shown the evolution in this art form over the years. We are seeing huge growth in digital art with the artists expanding our very understanding and definition of contemporary art and culture. You will see pieces examining how artists and creative practitioners are working with advanced technologies particularly AI, virtual reality and augmented reality, interrogating the key environmental, socialand political challenges of our time.
      How does Art Dubai play a pivotal role in the UAE as an incubator for creative talent?
      Art Dubai is a catalyst and anchor point for the rapid growth of the UAE and the wider region’s art scene and creative economy which has evolved into a meeting point for international art collectors and the creative community. The development of Dubai’s cultural scene, the dynamism of the city and the rich communities of artists and creatives that call Dubai home, is reflected in the eclectic line-up at this year’s fair. We have 23 Dubai galleries and some inspiring local artists including Sara Al Haddad, Sara Ahli and Faris AbdullaAlshafar at Aisha Alabbar; and Hassan Sharif and Mohammed Kazem at Gallery Isabelle.
      Outside of the fair, the Dubai Collection, an initiative of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and managed by Art Dubai, is the first institutional art collection for the emirate of Dubai and is an initiative that further enhances Dubai’s artistic influence and reach. Containing over 1000 pieces of work, the Collection includes artwork from private collections based in Dubai and the wider region. Whilst maintaining focus on the Middle East, the Dubai Collection is an international collection with no geographical restrictions, and artists from more than 40 countries are currently represented.
      How will this year’s summit change the way we think about art and technology?
      From early digital art pioneers to new emerging names, Art Dubai Digital has shown the evolution in this art form over the years. When we launched this new gallery section four years ago, Art Dubai was the first and only major international fair with a dedicated digital section. This year’s Art Dubai Digital Summit will offer thought-provoking conversations on ecological activism in media art, the hidden biases in artificial intelligence, and what the future holds for museums in an increasingly digital world. Through public talks, lectures and breakout sessions, museum directors, curators, artists and tech innovators will share insights on where we’re headed and what’s at stake.
      This year we have several digital installations and hybrid works – phygital or works that are digital but in contemporary sections – showing how artists are integrating digital elements in traditional art pieces and changing how we think of the two mediums. For example, Egyptian/Polish/American artist Ania Soliman and her work Kahrabaa, takes its title from the Arabic for ‘electricity’. As a large-scale, site-specific installation, it traces complex interconnections between technology, nature, and memory and presents five-metre-high canvases that blend technological and organic motifs captured in a series of performative acts involving artificial and real plants being thrown onto the canvases. Pioneering kinetic sculptor BREAKFAST will debut a large-scale interactive installation, Carbon Wake, and this first-of-its-kind kinetic artwork will take centre stage at the main entrance of the Digital gallery section.

      Alfred Basbous, Le mysterieux, Ed.8, 1991, Bronze, 46.5 x 21 x 16 cm, Courtesy of Alfred Basbous Foundation
      How do you see blockchain, AI, and immersive technology influencing the future of Art Dubai Digital?
      Curator Gonzalo’s theme for the 2025 Art Dubai Digital section ‘After the Technological Sublime’, brings together artists and creatives who are using digital technologies to address the challenges that humanity and the planet are facing today. Through their pieces, the artists raise critical questions and demonstrate the role digital technology has today and in the future. This year we have focused on artists active in artificial intelligence, virtual, and augmented reality, and other technological advances to interrogate some of the key environmental, social, and political challenges of our time.
      How is Art Dubai shaping the region’s role in the global art conversation?
      Art Dubai remains the most significant global art gathering in the Middle East, and our regional and international reach providesartists and galleries a global platform to connect with international audiences, fostering dialogue and new opportunities on a global scale. This year, we have 67 cities represented from across 39 countries. Over the years, Art Dubai has established itself as an important institutional platform and a catalyst for Dubai’s cultural economy, playing a key role in shaping its artistic landscape.
      This is The Design Issue – tell us more about art that has design appeal?
      The presentations for this year will encompass a diverse variety of mediums – from textile-based art, marble and resin sculptures, to glass wall pieces. French artist Joana Vasconcelos, whose textile sculptures are part of an ongoing series wrapping animals in handmade cotton crochet and five needle lace, is inspired by the ceramic’s artwork of Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro (1846 – 1905), one of the most renowned Portuguese artists of the 19th century. Thomas Brambilla Gallery is bringing American sculptor, Bryan Hunt, and his series of wall pieces to this year’s edition of Art Dubai.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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      The best things to do in the UAE this April

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      Life

      by Alice Holtham-Pargin
      5 hours ago

      Your editor-approved guide to the coolest events across the emirates this month…
      It’s April in the UAE, which means a beach pop-up foodies will love, some major music events, a timeless musical and some renowned art exhibitions. Here are 10 brilliant new things to do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in April 2025.
      Until April 13: Beach Canteen

      e& Beach Canteen lands at Nessnass Beach in Dubai from March 27 until April 13. This Instagrammable seaside pop-up is a foodies haven, featuring street food favourites and renowned international brands. Open daily from 4pm to 12am, the free-to-attend event will see TikTok sensation Brooki arrive in Dubai for the first time, as well as London’s viral churros brand, The Knot. Local brands including ChaCha Matcha and Humm Crumbs will also add to the culinary line-up. Catering to all tastes, this community event also promises non-stop live performances at the e& stage, fireworks on the first night of Eid, plus arcade games and a family pavilion with soft play and arts and crafts.
      @beachcanteenofficial
      April 5: Dubai World Cup

      Don your most fabulous fashion fits and get ready for a day at the races as Dubai World Cup returns to Meydan on Saturday April 5. Yes, the nine-race card – the final race day of the season – might be the main event, this equine extravaganza is as much about fashion as it is sports. There are a variety of packages on offer, with access to the vibrant Apron Views the most popular option for AED350, as well as several hospitality packages, including a brunch package in the Bubble Lounge for AED849.
      dubairacingclub.com
      April 7: Dine at the hands of culinary masters at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

      Three star culinary talents are teaming up for a six hands dinner at the iconic Burj Al Arab on November 7. For one night only, One Michelin Star Al Muntaha will welcome Row on 45’s Chef Jason Atherton and Tresind Studio’s Chef Himanshu Saini to join Chef Saverio Sbaragli for an extraordinary evening of culinary stardom. Set 200 metres above sea level, Al Muntaha provides a refined backdrop for the nine-course tasting menu, where each chef will present three signature dishes that showcase their talents. It’s AED1,600 or AED2,800 with optional wine pairing.
      jumeirah.com
      April 10 to 20: Les Miserables at Etihad Arena

      Multi-award-winning musical Les Miserables will head to Yas Island’s Etihad Arena for a 10-date run from April 10. The Arena Spectacular features a cast and orchestra of over 65 people, who will present Victor Hugo’s enthralling tale of broken dreams and unrequited love in this timeless showcase. Tickets start from AED130.
      etihadarena.ae
      April 12: Enjoy a night out Ibiza style as Ants takes over Ushuaia Dubai Harbour Experience

      Since October, Ushuaia Dubai Harbour Experience has been bringing a taste of Ibiza to Dubai Harbour with headline sets from Calvin Haris, Adriatique and Black Coffee. And on April 12 the party continues as the globally renowned electronic music brand Ants returns to Dubai for the first time since 2018. Bringing with it a huge headline line-up of Marco Carola, Andrea Oliva and Calussa, it’s set to be a big night of cutting-edge house and techno with some seriously sensational visuals. Tickets start from AED200.
      platinumlist.net
      April 13 to 20: Get creatively inspired at the return of Alserkal Art Week

      Alserkal Art Week returns to our favourite creative hub in Dubai for 10-days of exhibitions, talks and installations this April. The whole district will come alive under the theme A Wild Stitch. Highlights include Vanishing Points, a major exhibition by Imran Qureshi at Concrete; a new public art commission curated by Fatoş Üstek under Between a Beach and Slope, designed to challenge the notion of belonging; and 15 new gallery exhibitions.
      alserkal.online
      April 14 to 16: Check out a legion of fashion talent at Abu Dhabi Modest Fashion Week

      Discover celebrated designers and mingle with influential figures in the global modest fashion space at The St Regis Saadiyat Island during the 10th edition of Modest Fashion Week. Featuring a line-up of over 30 designers from more than 15 countries, styles will cover everything from modest wear essentials to dazzling evening wear from designers including Saudi-born Leen, the Australian label Ashaalia, and made-in-the-UAE Rabail Riaz, known for its handmade accessories. It’s invitation only, but you can get on the guest list here.
      modestfashionweeks.co
      April 18 to 20: Sing-along at a music festival in Abu Dhabi

      Abu Dhabi’s three-day music festival Club Social returns from April 18 to 20, bringing together some huge A-Listers for a weekend of music, art and dancing at Etihad Park. On Friday April 18, rockers Snow Patrol will bring hits like Chasing Cars and Just Say Yes to the UAE capital, performing alongside the guys behind She Moves In Her Own Way, The Kooks. On Saturday, we’ll be singing and dancing along to the addictive tunes of Usher, and then on Sunday, Raye and London Grammar close the show. Tickets start from AED295.
      ticketmaster.ae
      April 18 to 20: Discover works from over 120 global galleries at Art Dubai

      The 2025 edition of Art Dubai will bring together regional art aficionados for three days from April 18 to 20 at Madinat Jumeirah. A beacon of celebration of art in all its forms from around the Middle East, Central and South Asia and Africa, this year’s edition is themed around 20th Century modern masters who have had a lasting impact on global culture. This year, there will be more than 120 galleries from over 40 countries, plus talks, events and live performances. Tickets start from AED100.
      @artdubai
      April 26: Round out the month at a new music festival headlined by Ed Sheeran

      OFFLIMITS is the name of Abu Dhabi’s exciting new one-day music festival, bringing some of the biggest names in pop music to Etihad Park. Created by Theory Eleven, one of the biggest pop stars on the planet – Ed Sheeran – will be Thinking Out Loud as he performs a two-hour set of his most iconic songs in the UAE capital. Also on the bill, Stop and Stare hitmakers One Republic; the rockers behind I Predict A Riot, Kaiser Chiefs; and 1990s dance music favourites, Faithless. Tickets start from AED495.
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      Art Dubai 2024: When, where and everything else to know

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      Life by Ruman Baig 10 mins ago As Dubai continues to solidify its position as a vibrant cultural hub, anticipation mounts for the upcoming 17th edition of Art Dubai. Set against the stunning backdrop of Madinat Jumeirah, this prestigious event promises an immersive experience for art enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s delve into what makes Art Dubai 2024 a must-attend affair. Dates and Venue The biggest art spectacle is scheduled to captivate audiences from March 1st to 3rd, with exclusive previews on February 28th and 29th. Nestled within the opulent surroundings of Madinat Jumeirah, this iconic location sets the stage for a convergence of creativity and innovation. Diverse Presentations More than 100 contemporary, modern, and digital presentations will grace the event, representing over 60 cities and 40 countries. Notably, 21 presentations by exhibitors based in Dubai underscore the city’s burgeoning art scene. Special Highlights Art Dubai Digital returns for its third edition, showcasing groundbreaking digital art. Meanwhile, Bawwaba, meaning ‘gateway’ in Arabic, offers a curated series of solo artist presentations exploring the theme of healing. Additionally, Art Dubai Modern spotlights leading artists from the region who engaged in cultural exchanges with the Soviet Union post-1960. International perspective This year’s theme broadens the scope of the ‘Global South,’ celebrating diverse narratives and shared histories from communities worldwide. From Delhi to Guatemala City, it embraces diasporic and migrant histories, reflecting Dubai’s multicultural tapestry. Engaging Dialogues The Global Art Forum 17 will tackle pressing issues such as climate change and extinction. Esteemed speakers from various disciplines will explore solutions and initiatives over two insightful days of discussion. Experiential Offerings In addition to captivating artworks, guests can explore immersive experiences such as Piaget’s “The House of Gold” exhibition. This showcase offers a glimpse into high-end jewellery, watches, and newly commissioned artworks, enriching the cultural tapestry of Art Dubai. Art Dubai 2024 promises to be a celebration of creativity, diversity, and innovation. With its diverse array of presentations, thought-provoking discussions, and immersive experiences, this cultural extravaganza is not to be missed. Join us as we embark on a journey through the captivating realm of contemporary art in the heart of Dubai. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram: @artdubai  More

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      International Women’s Day 2023: Meet the 10 women redefining the region’s creative scene

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      Lifestyle

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      To mark the occasion of International Women’s Day, Emirates Woman spotlights on the incredible women across the region redefining their respective industries and challenging the status quo.
      Scroll through to discover the 10 next-gen faces to watch and names to know.
      Fatma Husam, Entreprenuer

      Fatma Husam is a 28-year-old Emirati entrepreneur and influencer with more than half a million Instagram following. Proving she’s more than just a pretty face, Husam is also the founder of Kamin, a luxe abaya label loved by many for its sophisticated silhouettes and contemporary touches. On top of that, she is currently busy building a creative community space called MNBAIN, launching soon at DIFC.
      Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche, Co-founders of The Open Crate

      Nora Mansour Samawi and Amina Debbiche are pioneering the future of art collection management with its first-of-its-kind platform, The Open Crate, that allows curators and collectors to digitally store and keep an inventory of physical assets. Through this, Cultural Engineers Samawi and Debbiche aim to document and preserve the cultural legacy by focusing on the Middle East and Africa.
      Rabah Saeid, Founder and Creative Director of Styled Habitat

      Dubai-based Rabah Saeid founded Styled Habitat in 2016, an award-winning interior architectural studio that boasts a portfolio of exclusive VIP clients from art collectors to entrepreneurs. With each project, Saeid puts a sophisticated touch and thoughtful approach to design to many residential, hospitality and commercial spaces in the UAE.
      Sarah Alagroobi, Founder of The Letters Project

      Sarah Alagroobi is the founder of The Letters Project, an online platform that foregrounds the anthropological and sociocultural climate of the Arab region through anonymous letters. The Emirati multi-disciplinary artist, designer and educator puts forward her knowledge and insights on Khaleeji culture and sparks conversations on notions of Emirati stereotypes within both Middle Eastern and Western contexts through her practice and social media – specifically on TikTok with her growing number of following of 21.9K.
      “I hope that my beliefs in advocating for cultural shifts are going to contribute to changes that will speak to the people, for the people, by the people.” Alagroobi tells Emirates Woman.
      Emaan Abbass, Founder of Ketish

      Emaan Abbass is a Dubai-based Egyptian-descent feminine health advocate and founder of Ketish, UAE’s first feminine wellness brand. Launched in 2021 and backed by Huda and Mona Kattan, it provides highly effective and multi-beneficial wellness formulas that are empowering and luxurious in every way.
      By entering the business of health and beauty, Abbass aims to create a safe space and empower women to gain a deeper understanding of topics we normally shy away from – all things body, arousal, desire, and wellness.
      Hessa Al Suwaidi, Designer and Women’s Well-being Advocate

      Emirati textile printed designer and women’s well-being advocate Hessa Al Suwaidi has worked with some of the biggest names in the fashion and art industries. Last year, Al Suwaidi was featured on Prada’s Ramadan and Eid campaigns called “Parallel Harmonies” alongside mountaineer Raha Moharrak and actor Rakan Bin Abdel Wahid. Notably, she has also done a collaboration highlighting traditional Emirati weaving with Bentley Motors for Dubai Design Week.
      Through her projects and works, the young creative expresses her cultural identity and pushes forth her regional roots and inspires women of her to follow their dreams.
      Lina Malaika, Filmmaker and Co-Founder of Clay

      A natural creative, (thanks to years of film production experience that runs in the family) Lina Malaika is an established filmmaker and creative consultant from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Malaika has worked on feature projects for publications in collaboration with luxury and contemporary brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chopard to name a few.
      More recently, she has co-founded Clay with designer Farah Hammad – a modeling agency that champions fresh talent by pushing for visibility to a new generation of faces to boost local careers.
      Maya Chantout, Creative Director

      Syrian creative director Maya Chantout is a revitalizing breath of fresh air.
      Chantout boasts of an impressive line up of design stints at Hermes, Chloe and Celine, as well as being distinguished by LVMH for her graduation collection. Currently she works as an art director and image consultant for fashion brands such as Mirae, Casablanca and Miu Miu where her distinctive bold energy, eclectic spirit and extravagant style have an evident influence. Her unique aesthetic reflects a collage of the two culture she’s been immersed in – from her childhood in Syria and her adult life in Paris.
      “I try my best to encourage people around me to respect their uniqueness and be true to themselves.” Chantout shares in Emirates Woman’s The Confidence Issue.
      Hala Khayat, Regional Director of Art Dubai

      In 2020, Hala Khayat joined Art Dubai as Regional Director where her extensive experience in the Middle Eastern market – specializing in Arab, Iranian and Turkish art – allows her to develop strategies for local and regional collectors’ long-term engagement, one of the driving factors for the continued remarkable success of Art Dubai.
      Khayat is also an advocate for Syria’s art community, which continues to play an integral role by championing young Syrian artists.
      Butheina Hamed Kazim, Founder of Cinema Akil

      Butheina Hamed Kazim is an Emirati founder of Cinema Akil, the Gulf’s first independent arthouse cinema in the GCC region.
      Without a doubt, Kazim has significantly contributed to the UAE’s arts and culture scene,  amplifying current sociocultural and political issues in the region through film festivals and program series. Her love for film has led her to many milestone moments including “Producing the short documentary Letters to Palestine, winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival in 2010” she tells Emirates Woman.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram More

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      An exclusive interview with Studio Lenca

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      Emirates Man

      by Dan Robinson
      8 seconds ago

      Founded on the process of personal memories and underpinned by social activism and different forms of Praxi.
      Studio Lenca paintings tell an autobiographical story that navigates borders and identities. Most recently, the studio has started building momentum with the art scene and collectors in the Middle East. Having already showcased in cities such as Seoul, London, and Edinburgh.
      We speak to Jose Campos of Studio Lenca ahead of his next upcoming exhibition at Foundry Gallery, Downtown Dubai.

      You have lived in many places; can you tell us about your early life?

      I was born in El Salvador, and like 300,000 people had to flee the country during its violent civil war in the 1980s. I traveled by land illegally to the US with my mother. When we eventually reached California, we found ourselves in a hostile environment trying to survive without the legal right to work or live there. My mum worked as a cleaner, and I was lucky enough to be admitted to a free public Arts school where I specialized in Dance. This completely opened up my world, and I could see where the arts could take me.
      I moved to London in my early twenties, which was a transformative experience. I moved to study for a master’s at London Contemporary Dance School. It was incredible to be amidst such a vibrant community of artists at that time. This encouraged me to paint and work across a range of art forms. I went on to study for a second master’s at Goldsmiths and worked as an art teacher until recently.
      How has this shaped you as an artist?
      My last teaching role was working with teens who had escaped conflict and traveled to the UK alone from places like Syria and Afghanistan. This was a truly transformative experience. I could see myself in them. Hearing their stories and seeing the resilience and strength they possessed still motivates me. At the age of 16, they had experienced a whole lifetime of trauma. They made beautiful paintings in my studio, and we discussed our shared experiences of being from a home that wouldn’t let us stay. I want my work to challenge the discourse around migration and amplify the voices of displaced people. These young people still motivate me.
      What inspires you to create and when did you realize this was an outlet you want to explore?
      Making artwork is something that I need to do. Sometimes I’ll see a colour, watch a film or hear a song and it will give me an idea for a painting. I needed to rush to the studio and get started at that moment! I can’t ever remember feeling any different!
      Jose Campos, Studio Lenca – Photo credit: Marc Hibbert
      Can you tell us about your latest collection ‘The Dreamers’?
      The Dreamers is a new series of work I produced for Foundry Downtown. The exhibition presents a new experimental series of paintings that explore my lived experience of displacement. ‘The Dreamers’ is a colloquial term given to a policy from the Obama administration that allowed children arriving in the US illegally the right to stay. Donald Trump then canceled this policy. I wanted to explore universal themes of displacement and a sense of surreal disorientation when you feel stateless.
      What has inspired you to showcase your collection in the UAE?
      I’ve spent a lot of time in UAE recently as I have many friends there. It’s such an exciting place as it feels very realistically diverse. During a recent residency, I explored the souqs of Bur Dubai and Deira. Through observations, a visual language of displacement and migration resonated with me. Suitcase stalls, visa agencies, and ticket offices jostled alongside home comfort food and barbershops. I lived in a neighborhood called ‘La Mission in San Francisco, where my mother and I would find our community. It feels similar to parts of Dubai. I find these environments very poignant- people are creating their own spaces, and there’s a sense of beauty and resilience, which I find fascinating.
      Many of the materials and visual symbols within the work are collected from these environments.
      How do you feel the art world differs in this region?
      The UAE offers so many possibilities for artists. The art world here is really finding its feet. There’s a whole ecosystem of creatives emerging. One thing I enjoy in the UAE is the sense of criticality. People are academically engaging in my artwork here. I enjoy the difficult conversations that are being held around colonialism and identity afforded in a place with such a global outlook. Institutions such as Jameel Arts Centre and NYU Abu Dhabi have fostered this.
      As a creative, what would you say the biggest challenges are you’ve had to overcome?
      Every painting for me is a huge challenge. I have to grapple or fight with the canvas until I’m happy to release it to the world. I have the responsibility of my story, my heritage, and my country on my shoulders. I always want to make sure I’m communicating that in an honest way. My work is about connecting with people and telling stories. It’s important that I do that with integrity and clarity.

      Which is the most memorable piece of art you have created so far?
      It was incredible to visit my recent solo exhibition at Tang Contemporary in Seoul. I had never seen so many of my works displayed together in such a beautiful space.
      My mother visited the show, and it was such a special moment for her to see my work in such a high-profile environment after everything we’ve been through together. It was emotional and something I will never forget.
      The UAE encourages and cultivates an environment in which to thrive in business – how have you experienced this as an artist?
      I love the optimism in the UAE, and everything seems possible. As an artist, it’s exciting to be in an environment where everyone strives for excellence. It’s a place that encourages everyone to be successful. It’s also impossible to feel creatively blocked here with such a heady combination of culture and energy.
      What’s next for Studio Lenca?
      The next few months are going to be exciting! After my solo exhibition at Foundry in Dubai, I have solo shows in London, Berlin, and Beirut. I also have a residency in Miami and will be showing as part of the Untitled Art Fair with an exciting project at Art Basel – that’s all I can say so far!
      The exhibition opens 12th September at Foundry Gallery, Dubai.For more information visit Studio Lenca
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      Images: Supplied More