Latifa Bint Mohammed Highlights Cultural Significance At Dubai Sculpture Symposium Closing Ceremony
H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, attended the closing ceremony of the first Dubai Sculpture Symposium. This event was part of the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033. Held in Al Shindagha Historic District, it aimed to highlight sculpture's role in enhancing Dubai’s visual identity and integrating art into public life.
The symposium provided a platform for artists from diverse cultures to connect and share experiences with local talent. This initiative supports the cultural and creative industries, reinforcing Dubai's status as a global hub for creativity. H.H. Sheikha Latifa noted that under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's leadership, Dubai has become a thriving centre for distinguished talent.
Sheikha Latifa stated, "The Dubai Sculpture Symposium reflects the emirate’s ambitious vision of transforming itself into an open and accessible art gallery, showcasing inspiring works that capture the city’s vibrant cultural spirit and unique identity." She emphasised that art serves as a universal language fostering communication between societies.
Sculpture is seen as a profound visual art form capable of embodying beauty and conveying creative ideas with lasting impact. It highlights Dubai’s uniqueness, cultural heritage, and opportunities. Beyond artistic value, sculpture transforms public spaces into iconic landmarks where artists and audiences engage dynamically.
The symposium aligns with Dubai’s Public Art Strategy, promoting innovation and cultural tourism. "Through events like this, Dubai continues to demonstrate the potential of its art sector, enhancing its global presence," Sheikha Latifa added. The event established a foundation for UAE sculptors to share diverse works inspiring future generations.
Sheikha Latifa highlighted the symposium's role in advancing cultural dialogue and empowering talents to unleash creativity. During the event, she met 15 sculptors from the UAE and international community, praising their exceptional work quality. Curated by Jordanian artist Kamal Al Zoubi and Omani artist Dr Ali Al Jabri, it showcased remarkable themes.
Diverse Artistic Contributions
Emirati artist Dr Mohammed Yousif presented ‘Shells,’ depicting Dubai’s beauty. Azza Al Qubaisi’s ‘Dubai Heart’ highlighted rapid development in the UAE. Syrian artist Aktham Abdul Hamid’s ‘Cultural Accumulation’ reflected humanity’s journey from history to AI. Chinese artist Liu Yang captured Dubai's night skies in ‘Starry Sky in Dubai.’
Tunisian artist Mohamed Bouaziz explored interconnectedness in ‘Our Land,’ while Italian artist Stefano Sabetta drew inspiration from coral reefs in ‘Flowing Coral.’ Ukrainian artist Lyudmyla Mysko combined physical structure with spatial dynamics in her series ‘Magnetic Designer.’ Spanish artist José Millán symbolised human relationships in ‘Harmonic Connections.’
Cultural Depth Through Art
Egyptian artist Said Badr depicted a metaphorical link between past and future in ‘City Gate.’ Tunisian artist Mohamed Sahnoun used Omani marble to reflect Arab-Islamic identity in ‘Moon,’ adding cultural depth to the symposium. The event was organised by Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children with various partners including Al Shindagha Museum.
The collaboration involved entities like Sikka Platform, Dubai Municipality, Police, Ambulance services, Civil Defence, Customs, and International Centre for Culinary Arts Dubai. These partnerships contributed to making the symposium a success by providing support across different areas essential for hosting such an event.
With inputs from WAM


