Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the launch of the inaugural Dubai Sculpture Symposium 2024, a landmark event aimed at highlighting the significance of sculpture in enhancing Dubai’s visual identity. The symposium aligns with the emirate’s Public Art Strategy, which seeks to transform Dubai into an open-air art museum accessible to all, while reinforcing its status as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.

Taking place until 22 December at the Al ShindaghaHistoric District, this symposium reflects Dubai Culture’s efforts to create a vibrant, creative environment that empowers and supports local talent in the field of sculpture. It also cultivates connections between local and international artists, enabling them to exchange knowledge and experiences on diverse sculptural techniques. By doing so, the symposium raises awareness of public art and highlights the role of handcrafted sculptures in enriching cultural and creative industries.

The Dubai Sculpture Symposium 2024, an initiative that supports the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, will bring together 15 distinguished sculptors from the UAE, the Gulf region, and across the world. Renowned artists such as Emirati sculptor Azza Al Qubaisi, Syrian artist Aktham Abdul Hamid, Bulgarian artist Georgi Minchev, and Chinese artist Liu Yang will participate, showcasing their creativity, exceptional craftsmanship, and unique approaches to the art of sculpture.

The symposium will feature live sculpting showcases alongside insightful seminars and panel discussions. On 7 December, the sessions will explore “The Evolution of Public Art: Sculptures in Urban Spaces” and “Sculpture as Cultural Storytelling.” On 14 December, the discussions will focus on “Sculpting for the Environment: Sustainability in Public Art” and “Interactive Sculpture: Engaging Communities Through Art.” On 21 December, the agenda will highlight “Mastering Monumental Sculptures: Challenges and Techniques” and “Public Sculpture and Youth Engagement: Inspiring the Next Generation of Artists.”

Dr Saeed bin Mubarak Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted Dubai’s position as a thriving centre for creativity across all art forms, emphasising its longstanding role in building cultural and artistic bridges by hosting a range of exhibitions and events that enrich the local art scene saying,“The Dubai Sculpture Symposium is a unique event that underscores the importance of sculpture as a tangible expression of human creativity, reflecting the authenticity and innovation of communities. By bringing together distinguished sculptors known for their mastery and creativity, the event provides a platform for exchanging expertise and presenting sculptures that radiate beauty and inspiration. This initiative also motivates local talent to contribute to the growth of the cultural and creative industries, which aligns seamlessly with Dubai Culture’s sectoral responsibilities and priorities.”

The symposium, which will be closed to children for safety reasons, will also honour outstanding artists in recognition of their contributions to advancing artistic and creative fields, celebrating their role in nurturing societal innovation.

The symposium is being organised by Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children in partnership with Al Shindagha Museum—the UAE’s largest heritage museum, Sikka Platform, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Ambulance, Dubai Civil Defence, Dubai Customs,and the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA Dubai).