Latifa Bint Mohammed Celebrates Recipients Of The 2024 Arab Great Minds Awards In Architecture And Art
H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, recently met with Jordanian architect Sahel Al Hayari and Iraqi artist Dia Al-Azzawi. Both were honoured with the 2024 Great Arab Minds Awards in their respective fields. The meeting occurred during the award ceremony initiated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
The Great Arab Minds Awards celebrate Arab leaders across six categories: natural sciences, engineering and technology, medicine, architecture and design, economics, and literature and arts. This initiative aims to highlight outstanding Arab talents who serve as role models for younger generations while promoting innovative ideas that enhance the region's global standing in knowledge, science, and culture.
During the meeting, H.H. Sheikha Latifa praised Sahel Al Hayari and Dia Al-Azzawi for their remarkable achievements. Their work has significantly impacted their fields by blending cultural heritage with modern innovation. She noted that their contributions have enriched the Arab creative landscape by showcasing unique talents and vast potential within the region.
Sahel Al Hayari is renowned for his architectural designs that balance authenticity with innovation. His projects like the ‘Jordanian Archaeological Museum’ reflect a philosophy that merges traditional crafts with contemporary styles. This approach has redefined the architectural identity of the region.
Dia Al-Azzawi is a pioneer in contemporary Arab art known for his ‘linear compositions’. This visual language combines abstraction with cultural symbolism. His diverse work spans painting, sculpture, and graphic arts, exploring profound human themes that enhance the artistic narrative of the region.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa emphasised that these awards are a significant platform to honour exceptional ideas and achievements of Arab geniuses. They celebrate unique contributions advancing innovation and creativity in various fields. The awards reflect Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's visionary thinking and commitment to recognising influential Arab intellectuals shaping a brighter future.
She stated, "Investing in people lies at the heart of development and forms the bedrock of thriving societies. The Great Arab Minds Awards exemplify this vision by recognising individuals enriching our cultural identity." These awards underscore Dubai’s dedication to nurturing talent while celebrating intellectual achievements shaping diverse fields.
Cultural Impact
The meeting highlighted design, literature, and arts as foundational pillars of the creative economy. These sectors are key drivers in advancing cultural industries. H.H. Sheikha Latifa commended Sahel Al Hayari’s groundbreaking work for its transformative impact on architecture through innovative approaches rediscovering regional heritage uniquely.
Dia Al-Azzawi’s contributions were also acknowledged for reshaping artistic identity through his distinctive visual language merging abstraction with symbolism. His work has significantly enhanced regional artistic narratives by exploring profound human themes across various mediums.
The event was attended by notable figures from culture, arts, and design sectors including Mohammed Al Murr; Hala Badri; Benedetta Ghione; Isobel Abulhoul; Ahlam Bolooki; Professor Hashim Sarkis; Dr Najat Makki; Faisal Abdulqader; Faouzi Khlifi among others.
This gathering underscored Dubai’s commitment to fostering creativity while celebrating remarkable intellectual achievements shaping diverse fields within the region’s vibrant cultural landscape.
With inputs from WAM
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