In the vibrant realm of Emirati visual arts, the Gulf Capital – ADMAF Visual Arts Award 2023 shines as a beacon of recognition and support for emerging talent. Celebrating its 10th edition, this prestigious award, presented annually by Gulf Capital in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), stands as a testament to the commitment of nurturing Emirati artists and undergraduates in the visual arts. This article explores the essence of this award, its journey, and the remarkable winner, Sarra’a Abdulaziz Alshehhi.
Unveiling the Visual Arts Award
A Platform for Creative Minds
Launched in 2013, the Visual Arts Award is a platform for exceptionally talented Emirati artists aged 18 to 35. It provides a canvas for these creative minds to express themselves through various forms of visual arts. This initiative not only celebrates artistry but also nurtures it.
A Prize of Excellence
The winner of the Visual Arts Award is bestowed with a prize of 10,000 AED, a symbolic gesture of recognition for their exceptional talent and dedication. Moreover, the award also offers equivalent opportunities for development, opening doors to a promising future in the world of visual arts.
Fostering Creativity Among the Youth
A Vision of Empowerment
The core objective of the Visual Arts Award is to foster talent and creativity among the younger generation of artists in the UAE. It aligns perfectly with the country’s vision of empowering its youth, especially in arts and culture.
Her Excellency’s Commitment
Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, the Founder and Artistic Director of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, underscores the award’s commitment to nurturing Emirati artists and art students. She emphasizes the importance of fostering skills in visual and fine arts and how it contributes to the growth of cultural industries and innovative thinking.
Celebrating Excellence
The recent recognition of Sarra’a Abdulaziz Al Shehhi, a graduate of New York University Abu Dhabi, for her film ‘A Small Dream,’ exemplifies the award’s commitment to celebrating excellence. Her achievements align with the country’s vision of empowering women and amplifying their voices.
The Force Behind the Award
Gulf Capital’s Commitment
Dr. Karim El Solh, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Capital, highlights Gulf Capital’s and ADMAF’s partnership in supporting young and creative individuals, including visual artists and filmmakers. This partnership reinforces the importance of elevating the artistic taste of the Emirati community.
Empowering the Creative Economy
The Visual Arts Award isn’t just about recognizing talent; it’s about establishing sustainability and empowering the creative economy. Dr. Karim El Solh’s words underscore the profound impact of this award.
Sarra’a Abdulaziz Alshehhi: The Standout Winner
An Accomplished Filmmaker and Writer
Sarra’a Abdulaziz Alshehhi, the standout winner of the Gulf Capital – ADMAF Visual Arts Award 2023, is an accomplished Emirati filmmaker and writer. Her recent themes, revolving around social and women’s issues, have garnered international acclaim.
An MFA from NYU-Tisch School of the Arts
Sarra’a holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in writing and directing from NYU-Tisch School of the Arts (2019). Her educational background reflects her commitment to honing her craft.
Impactful Films
Sarra’a’s portfolio includes impactful films such as “Open Wound” (2015), “Burning Colors” (2016), and the award-winning “A Small Dream” (2022). These films have been screened at festivals and cultural events worldwide, showcasing her storytelling prowess.
Beyond Filmmaking
Sarra’a’s influence extends beyond filmmaking. She has contributed as an art director in several films and as a writer in TV writing rooms. Her diverse contributions highlight her versatility.
Enriching the Local Film Community
Sarra’a’s dedication to supporting and enriching the local film community is evident through her curating a Film Lab at the Sikka Art Fair in 2023. This initiative reinforces her commitment to nurturing artistic talent in the UAE.
Exploring the Winning Work
“A Small Dream”: A Poignant Narrative
“A Small Dream,” the winning work of Sarra’a Abdulaziz Alshehhi, tells the poignant story of Maitha. Maitha dreams of a seemingly simple act – swimming in the sea she frequents. However, her journey is filled with obstacles as she strives to find a delicate balance between fulfilling her dream and navigating challenging encounters in public.
A Testament to Storytelling Prowess
Sarra’a’s “A Small Dream” is a testament to her storytelling prowess. Through the lens of visual arts, she addresses relevant societal issues, creating a powerful narrative that resonates with audiences.
Celebrating Excellence in Emirati Visual Arts
Recognizing Sarra’a Abdulaziz Alshehhi
The Gulf Capital – ADMAF Visual Arts Award 2023 celebrates Sarra’a Abdulaziz Alshehhi as a leading force in the Emirati creative landscape. Her outstanding contributions reflect the depth of talent in the UAE’s visual arts scene.
A Commitment to Nurturing Talent
Beyond recognizing Sarra’a, this award reaffirms the commitment of Gulf Capital and ADMAF to nurturing artistic talent and fostering innovation in the UAE. It serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists.
Conclusion
The Gulf Capital – ADMAF Visual Arts Award 2023 celebrates excellence in Emirati visual arts and acts as a catalyst for the growth of artistic talent in the UAE. Sarra’a Abdulaziz Alshehhi’s remarkable journey exemplifies the impact of this award, showcasing how it nurtures creativity and empowers artists to address important societal issues through the medium of visual arts. As we celebrate Sarra’a’s achievements, we also applaud the commitment of Gulf Capital and ADMAF to shaping a vibrant and innovative cultural landscape in the UAE.
