Sheikha Latifa Inaugurates Narratives Of Belonging Exhibition Featuring Emirati Artists

The 'Narratives of Belonging’ exhibition, inaugurated by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, celebrates Emirati artists. It showcases their creativity through various art forms and highlights their unique experiences. This event, held at Al Safa Art & Design Library until 18th October, features 23 artists whose works enrich the regional creative scene and contribute to the Emirati art movement.

Sheikha Latifa explored the exhibition, appreciating artworks that go beyond traditional concepts with expressive interpretations of innovation. She interacted with artists, praising their innovative visions and exceptional work quality. She emphasised that the convergence of Emirati artists' inspirations significantly enriches the local cultural landscape and fosters a sustainable artistic environment in Dubai.

Sheikha Latifa stated that 'Narratives of Belonging’ is an innovative platform embodying Dubai's creative spirit and commitment to supporting local talent. "The exhibition showcases the strength of Emirati art deeply rooted in a rich history of intellectual, cultural, and civilisational heritage; it also highlights the creative diversity that fosters meaningful cultural dialogue and encourages the exchange of experiences, inspiring artists to connect and collaborate," she said.

The exhibition provides spaces for artists to express ideas on themes like belonging, storytelling, cultural heritage, and identity exploration. It features renowned Emirati artists such as Dr. Najat Makki, Nujoom Al Ghanem, Mohammed Al Mansoori, and the late Hassan Sharif. Their works contribute to a vibrant local artistic repertoire that shares human creativity globally.

Roudha Al Mazrouei documents Siji residents' lives in Fujairah, highlighting nomadic lifestyles. Salmah Al Mansoori’s piece captures Ghayathi’s essence through painting as self-expression. Mai Al Rumaithi’s paintings evoke childhood warmth and familiarity. Aisha Al Hammadi’s 'Echo of Memory’ connects emotionally to maritime heritage at Zayed Port's dhow harbour.

Maryam Bin Bishr portrays how vibrant 'freej’ spaces have become rigid over time. Maryam Al Zaabi’s abstract work inspired by 'Mertashaa’ reflects societal pressures on women through powerful narratives. Dr Afra Atiq presents a poem capturing her grandmother’s pearl diving experiences, while Sheikha Alyazia Al Nahyan explores landscapes as vessels of cultural memory.

Diverse Artistic Expressions

Alia Lootah’s series examines form-shadow interplay in 'Shadows at Play.’ Eman Al Hashemi contemplates time passage in 'Waiting Series: Sockets.’ Sara Al Haddad weaves loss and belonging themes into yarn creations. Shamsa Al Omaira highlights date seed symbolism; Juma Al Haj uses tally systems for emotional expression in paintings.

Sheikha Al Ketbi’s immersive installation combines film with interactive elements reflecting personal narratives in 'Book.’ Hussain Sharif’s 'Intersections’ focuses on his connection to evolving traditional spaces. The exhibition also features Faris Al Shafar’s 'Lonely Alleyway Ballad,’ Mohammed Al Alawi’s Kumzari people exploration, plus works by Hessa Al Marzouqi and Shama Al Hamed.

This exhibition not only celebrates individual creativity but also strengthens Dubai's position as a hub for artistic expression by fostering collaboration among artists from diverse backgrounds.

With inputs from WAM