When the Sikka Art and Design Festival takes place in Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood from March 15 to 24, the alleyways will be converted into an open art gallery. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and member of the Dubai Council, is the patron of the festival’s tenth edition.
The festival’s current edition will be held under the theme ‘Celebrating Art, Celebrating Growth,’ with a new visual identity inspired by a Sidr tree at Al Fahidi, according to the authorities.
“This year’s edition, which celebrates the Festival’s tenth anniversary, is being hosted under its new umbrella, the Sikka Art and Design Platform, which aims to encourage rising creative talent’s professional advancement,” it stated.
The ‘Back to Roots House’ by UAE-based Jewelers, which offers a self-guided journey through time, art, and jewelry, as well as murals by talented UAE and GCC-based artists such as Saggaf Alhashemi, Gary Yong, Perry El-Ashmawi, and Bahrain-based artist Huvil, will be among the many design exhibitions and creative installations at the Sikka Art and Design Festival. The Festival will also feature innovative works produced by a collection of artists, mainly Lebanese, at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.
The festival is a highlight of Dubai Art Season (DAS), an annual artistic celebration hosted by Dubai Culture in February and March to honor the emirate’s burgeoning creative and cultural scene. The Dubai Art Season brings together a variety of creative activities and events in public spaces, including art projects, interactive initiatives, workshops, exhibitions, debate sessions, and performing arts.
The city’s arts sector has experienced a burst of creativity, fueled by the emirate’s extensive investment and support for cultural growth. The city has converted itself into a global art and culture destination because of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The Sikka Art and Design Festival aspires to develop an integrated ecosystem that supports budding creatives and gives a platform for them to begin their road to become professional artists as part of its new orientation. The artworks on display this year were chosen to tell fascinating stories about the festival’s ten-year journey.
“Through the Sikka Art and Design Festival, we want to provide local and regional artists with unique possibilities to present their artworks to a wide local and international audience in Dubai, under the supervision of specialists,” said Hala Badri, director-general of Dubai Culture. This is in line with our aim to engage, inspire, and support potential individuals to succeed, thereby strengthening Dubai’s position as a worldwide leader and a global capital for the creative world.