Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the launch of the inaugural Dubai Sculpture Symposium 2024, a ground-breaking event aimed at highlighting the significance of sculpture in enhancing Dubai’s visual identity. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the Public Art Strategy, further solidifying Dubai’s position as a global cultural hub, a cradle of creativity, and a gathering place for talent.

The symposium, an initiative that supports the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, is set to take place from 4 to 22 December at the Al Shindagha Historic District, features an exciting agenda of sculptural showcases, alongside a series of seminars, panel discussions, and interactive sessions that encourage knowledge sharing between participants and the audience. On 7 December, the programme includes two sessions titled “The Evolution of Public Art: Sculptures in Urban Spaces” and “Sculpture as Cultural Storytelling”. On 14 December, attendees can join sessions on “Sculpting for the Environment: Sustainability in Public Art” and “Interactive Sculpture: Engaging Communities Through Art” while on 21 December, the focus will shift to “Mastering Monumental Sculptures: Challenges and Techniques” and “Public Sculpture and Youth Engagement.”

The symposium, which will be closed to children to ensure their safety, will also feature a special ceremony honouring exceptional artists for their remarkable contributions to advancing artistic and creative fields, as well as cultivating innovation within society.

More than 15 sculptors from the UAE, the Gulf region, and across the globe will participate in the inaugural symposium. Renowned artists include Emirati sculptor Azza Al Qubaisi, Syrian artist Aktham Abdul Hamid, Bulgarian artist Georgi Minchev, and Chinese artist Liu Yang, among others. Participants have been selected based on their creativity, craftsmanship, and ability to embody the art of sculpture.