New Signature Young Artist Award exhibition

An exhibition of the works of a selection of artists taking part in the Shaikha Manal ‘New Signature Young Artist Award' was today inaugurated by Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Member of the Board and Managing Director in-charge of the Dubai Art and Cultural Authority.

The exhibition features 38 artworks by talented young Emirati and expatriate artists.

An initiative launched under the patronage of Shaikha Manal Bint Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Women's Establishment and the wife of Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Presidential Affairs, the ‘New Signature Young Artist Award' is aimed at supporting and recognising talented young artists.

Speaking on DIFC's sponsorship of the event, Marwan Bin Byat, Director of Art and Culture, DIFC said, “DIFC's support for the ‘New Signature Young Artist Award' 2008 exhibition reflects our belief in the role of art in our society.

The young artists showcasing their work in the exhibition represent the future of regional and global art. It is also part of our commitment to integrate art into the social and cultural life of the business community in the Dubai International Financial Centre.''

The judges of the “New Signature'' art contest include prominent figures from the world of art, art experts and educators from recognized global institutions.

Renowned regional and international figures such as Dr. Kimberly Lund from the US, Patricia Milns from the UK, Nazneen Shafi from India, Jassim Alawadhi and Dr. Najat Makki from the United Arab Emirates are part of the panel.

The exhibition that will take place at the lobby of the Dubai International Financial Centre will be open until 18 April from 10 am to 9 pm. During this period, judges will select three winners for both the fine arts and photography categories.

The winners will receive cash prizes worth Dh30,000. In addition to the main awards, there will also be a Peoples Choice award and a new Special Jury Award.