The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, in cooperation with Dubai Municipality, has announced the implementation of three artistic murals inspired by the nature, values, history and heritage of the emirate. These murals are part of the inaugural Dubai Calligraphy Biennale held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. The biennale, which runs until October 31, features a total of 19 distinctive art exhibitions, over 150 enriching workshops and over 25 engaging talks, across over 35 diverse venues in Dubai.
The murals curated by Lebanese artist Ahmad Makary are spread across three public parks in Dubai: Umm Suqeim Park, Nad Al Sheba Park and Abu Hail Park. They also mark a new chapter in Dubai Culture’s efforts to implement Dubai Public Art strategy which aims to turn the emirate into a globally accessible open art gallery, providing unique artistic experiences, enriching visual culture, fostering innovation and promoting the culture and art of the emirate. landscape, while supporting Dubai’s creative economy. The implementation of these murals is also part of the Authority’s commitments to a creative ecosystem that supports talent and motivates them to present their work to community members.
Argentinian Yubran Gosne (also known as Sanctum), based in the United Arab Emirates, presents his mural titled ‘The Tide’, which consists of a quadriptych of wall surfaces located at the entrance to the bustling Umm Suqeim Park. Inspired by the movement of the sea and its energy, the asemic calligraphy climbs the surfaces on an explosive background of greens, blues and turquoises, emulating spirits that seek to merge with the flow of water, in an immense harmony similar to a trance; The large white strokes represent the foam of water touching the sand and the endless link between water and soil.
UAE-based Algerian artist Ahmed Amine Aitouche (also known as Sneak Hotep) painted the mural ‘Amalgamation’ in Nad Al Sheba Park, which consists of three angular wall surfaces, visible from an angle as a work of art singular, while still having their separate identities, all united by the artist’s strokes and colors. Sneak Hotep’s intention is to illustrate how Dubai serves as a model of balance between tradition and modernity, freedom and discipline. He believes that the city’s diverse and multicultural approach is fundamental to its urban and social development. This merger symbolizes the long-lasting fusion and coexistence of Dubai residents throughout its history.
Sneak Hotep also participated with another mural titled ‘Epitome’ (Mithal) in Abu Hail Park. In this work he passionately seeks perfection in every stroke, circle and concept. ‘Epitome’ serves as a silent message to people who strive to improve themselves daily. It reflects the journey of humanity as individuals, citizens, members of a community and a nation, where exemplary qualities are the precious gems that continually shape a better future.
Curator Ahmad Makary commented: “I am very proud of the results that Sanctum and Sneak achieved and the emotions they managed to evoke through their art. The pieces and the way they are arranged blend perfectly with the locations, providing “A new feeling and perspective for the public viewer. “Urban beautification is a concept that has always interested me and I would like to deeply thank Dubai Culture for believing in the project, its prospects and its future possibilities.”
Sanctum said: “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to realize and share my vision publicly in Dubai with the support of Dubai Culture and its inaugural Dubai Calligraphy Biennale, Dubai Municipality and project curator Ahmad Makary. I hope that my art finds takes on a new resonance when displayed against the iconic backdrop of the Burj Al Arab and becomes part of the fabric of the city.”
Sneak Hotep said: “Personally, I have been very impressed by the cultural symbiosis that I have been able to feel in Dubai since I landed; It made me question the opportunities to learn about other countries and cultures without crossing any borders or even leaving the neighborhood; It feels like having access to the whole world just by walking down its narrow street. “I am happy to evolve as an Algerian artist in Dubai, exploring the cultural richness of the city.”
The inaugural edition of the Dubai Calligraphy Biennale is supported by Al Rostamani Group (main supporter) and Sandooq Al Watan (supporter) and is held in partnership with a variety of entities from the local cultural scene, including: Dubai Design District (d3), Cultural and Scientific Association, Mohammed bin Rashid Library, Expo City Dubai, DIFC Gate Avenue, Museum of the Future, Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, Juma Al-Majid Centre, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism , Dubai Media Office, Dubai Municipality, Alserkal Avenue, Art Dubai, Women’s Museum, Tashkeel, Art Jameel, Mattar Bin Lahej Gallery, Boccara Gallery, Foundry, Khawla Art Gallery, Firetti Gallery, Efie Gallery, BEDU, Gallery AWC, Hobb Bookstore, Opera Gallery, Mondoir Art Gallery, thejamjar, Medaf, Mirzam, Kalimat, Slay Café, Frame Café, 3IXAM, Huawei and Level Shoes.
