Abu Dhabi Hosts Culture Summit 2023: A Global Dialogue On Time And Memory

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi commenced today in the UAE's capital, showcasing an impressive array of keynote speeches, creative talks, panel discussions, and cultural performances. This year's sixth edition gathers participants from 90 countries, focusing on the theme ‘A Matter of Time’. The Summit's opening day delved into the significance of culture in forging collective memories and presented alternatives to the traditional linear perception of time.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), welcomed attendees with a message that underscored this year's theme as an invitation for reflection and pause. He emphasized the Summit's role in fostering global understanding through culture, stating, "Culture will allow us to understand each other, respect each other, accept and preserve each other’s culture."

Al Mubarak also highlighted the honor of hosting such a diverse gathering, pointing out the unique opportunity for voices from various sectors to be heard. The Summit was graced by Adonis, a world-renowned poet and philosopher, who delivered the first keynote speech. Adonis explored the intricate relationship between humans and time, critiquing the modern era's technological dependency.

Emirati celebrity singer Hussain Al Jassmi engaged in a creative conversation with Egyptian Talk Show host Mona Al Shazly. They discussed the impact of time on an artist's journey and the UAE's role in supporting creative talents. Al Jassmi shared his personal experiences of support within the UAE, highlighting the nation's commitment to cultural diversity and harmony.

Nobel Prize Literature winner Wole Soyinka and Manthia Diawara from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts engaged in a dialogue about African culture, identity, and the continent's historical challenges. Another session titled ‘First people's knowledge on living in the everywhen’ offered insights into non-linear conceptions of time through the work of artists from First People’s communities.

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi is set to continue until 5th March. It is organized by DCT Abu Dhabi in partnership with several global organizations such as UNESCO, Economist Impact, Design Museum, Google, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, and the Recording Academy. The event also features collaborations with 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 among others.

With inputs from WAM