Culture Summit Abu Dhabi 2023: Exploring Culture's Impact On Time And Memory

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi commenced today in the UAE's capital, marking its sixth edition with a rich programme that includes keynote speeches, creative talks, panel discussions, and cultural performances. This year's theme, ‘A Matter of Time’, attracted participants from over 90 countries. The Summit's opening day delved into the significance of culture in shaping collective memories and presented an alternative view to the linear concept of time.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), in his opening remarks, highlighted the Summit's role as a platform for reflection and action. "Culture Summit is a venue where issues are not only discussed but where tangible solutions for global communities are sought. Through culture, we aim to foster understanding, respect, acceptance, and preservation among diverse cultures," Al Mubarak stated.

Al Mubarak also expressed pride in hosting such a diverse gathering, emphasizing the Summit's inclusive nature. The event saw the participation of Adonis, a world-renowned poet and philosopher, who delivered the first keynote speech. Adonis explored the relationship between humans and time, critiquing the modern era's technological dependency.

Emirati celebrity singer Hussain Al Jassmi and Egyptian Talk Show host Mona Al Shazly engaged in a creative conversation about the role of time in an artist's journey and the UAE's supportive environment for creative talents. Al Jassmi shared his personal experiences of support from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and highlighted the UAE's multicultural harmony.

Nobel Prize Literature laureate Wole Soyinka and Professor Manthia Diawara discussed African culture, identity issues, and the impact of slavery and looting on continental ideologies. Another session titled ‘First people's knowledge on living in the everywhen’ offered insights into non-linear perceptions of time through the work of artists from First People’s communities.

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi is set to run until 5th March and is organized by DCT Abu Dhabi in partnership with global organizations such as UNESCO, Economist Impact, Design Museum, Google, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, and the Recording Academy. The event also collaborates with several other partners including Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, Arab World Institute, Berklee Abu Dhabi, Club de Madrid, Cultural Foundation, IFACCA, Image Nation Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, NYUAD and World Cities Culture Forum.

With inputs from WAM