Sheikha Khawla: First Arab Artist On Spain's University Of Navarra Museum Board

The University of Navarra Museum in Spain recently made a significant announcement regarding its Board of Directors. Sheikha Khawla bint Ahmed Khalifa Al Suwaidi, the Founder of the Khawla Art and Cultural Foundation and wife of H.H. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, has been appointed as a board member. This marks a notable first within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, as Sheikha Khawla is the first Arab artist to achieve such a position at the university. Her foundation is also recognized as a collaborator with the esteemed university.

In her new role, Sheikha Khawla has actively participated in a series of events at the museum, part of a cultural outreach programme designed to engage the Spanish public. Her contributions included readings of poetic works and the exhibition of seven of her latest art pieces. Additionally, she led a workshop on Arabic calligraphy, showcasing the University of Navarra's dedication to incorporating essential aspects of Arab culture into its programming. The aim was to introduce European and, more specifically, Spanish cultural figures to the richness of Arab culture and the intricate art of Arabic calligraphy.

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Sheikha Khawla views her appointment as a significant acknowledgment and an opportunity to represent Arab culture and art on an international platform. This inclusion among a group of esteemed artists, intellectuals, and researchers on the museum’s board underscores the university's commitment to cultural diversity. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of cross-cultural dialogue in enhancing cultural exchange and promoting art that goes beyond traditional boundaries.

Art serves as a universal language, according to Sheikha Khawla, playing an essential role in building understanding, tolerance, and connections between civilizations. Her involvement in the University of Navarra Museum's board not only represents a personal achievement but also signifies a broader movement towards fostering global cultural exchanges through art.

With inputs from WAM