DUBAI 4 March 2018: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, praised the progress in the the cultural scene in the UAE made possible through art projects and events that blend themes drawn from Emirati heritage with modern artistic perspectives.
His Highness’ comments came during a visit to Dubai Canvas, the public art festival organised by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO).
The event provides a platform for global artists and some of the most promising young artists in the UAE to exhibit their work.
Sheikh Mohammed expressed his appreciation for aspiring young UAE artists and their work that he said enriches the country’s cultural scene. “Creativity fuels the cultural development of civilisations. It helps to build bridges of communication beyond the spoken word,” said Sheikh Mohammed.
Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed at the Dubai Canvas venue by the Director General of GDMO, Mona Ghanem Al Marri. His Highness viewed various artworks on display and listened to a briefing on the project by Al Marri, who highlighted the participation of aspiring new artists from the UAE alongside artists from across the globe.
The fourth edition of Dubai Canvas, which runs until 7 March 2018 at La Mer, Jumeirah 1 in Dubai, is organised by Brand Dubai in partnership with Meraas.
Sheikh Mohammed expressed his admiration for the work of the Emirati artists as he listened to their views on the opportunity to interact with more than 30 professional street artists from across the world.
In her briefing on the Dubai Canvas art festival, HE Mona Al Marri said: “Since its launch in 2015, Dubai Canvas has attracted top artists from around the world. It has also provided an exceptional opportunity for local talent to learn from established international street artists and hone their skills.”
Artists participating in the 2018 Dubai Canvas posed for a group photo with HH Sheikh Mohammed and the Brand Dubai team.