Abu Dhabi Hosts Culture Summit, Explores Time's Impact On Collective Memories

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi commenced today in the UAE's capital, showcasing an impressive array of keynote speeches, creative discussions, panel debates, and cultural performances. This year's sixth edition, themed ‘A Matter of Time’, has attracted participants from over 90 countries. The event, spanning three days, delves into the significance of culture in shaping collective memories and explores non-linear perceptions of time.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), in his opening remarks, highlighted the theme 'A Matter of Time' as an opportunity for reflection and discussion. He emphasized the summit's role in fostering global understanding and harmony through cultural exchange. "Culture Summit is more than just words - issues will be discussed and tangible solutions will be found for global communities," Al Mubarak stated, underscoring the importance of cultural preservation and respect.

Adonis, a globally celebrated poet and philosopher, delivered the summit's first keynote speech. He discussed the intricate relationship between humans and time, critiquing the modern era's technological dependency. Adonis argued that while technology has advanced, it should not dominate our creative potential or our connection with nature.

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 credited the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as a pivotal supporter of creativity in the UAE.

Nobel Prize Literature laureate Wole Soyinka and Professor Manthia Diawara from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts conversed about African culture, identity, and the continent's diverse ideologies shaped by historical events such as slavery and artefact looting.

A session titled ‘First people's knowledge on living in the everywhen’ offered an alternative view on time, challenging Western linear concepts. Artists Erena Baker-Arapere, Sarah Hudson, Daniel Boyd, and Nicholas Galanin shared insights from First People’s communities, presenting time as a continuum connected through collective memories.

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi is set to conclude on 5th March. It is organized by DCT Abu Dhabi with support from global partners such as UNESCO, Economist Impact, Design Museum, Google, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, and the Recording Academy. The event also collaborates with various other partners including Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and Louvre Abu Dhabi among others, bringing together expertise across culture, arts, media, and technology.

With inputs from WAM