The inaugural Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts Awards organised by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has received overwhelming submissions. Dubai Culture is currently evaluating the entries for the winners who will be honoured on March 18, 2010.
The Emirate’s dedicated authority for culture, heritage and the arts had invited submissions for the awards announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to honour regional and international patrons of the arts, who have made financial contributions towards strengthening Dubai’s arts scene.
The strong response to the first ever recognition of its sort in the Arab world highlights the support extended by patrons to cultural and artistic initiatives as well as events in Dubai or a Dubai-related initiative.
Submissions have been received from an array of industries including the government sector, banking, telecommunications, hospitality, retailers, cultural institutions, and real estate companies, among others.
The submissions represent patronages by governmental and private sectors as well as individuals for initiatives and events held between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2009. The Awards are being conferred in four categories: ‘Distinguished Patrons of the Arts,’ ‘Patrons of the Arts,’ ‘Supporters of the Arts,’ and ‘Friends of the Arts’.
Saeed Al Nabouda, Chief Projects Officer, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, said that the strong response to the first-ever Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts Awards reiterates the unparalleled moral and financial support that backs the growth of the arts sector in Dubai.
“The support of these patrons has played an instrumental role in enriching and evolving the cultural scene. This further highlights Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture and the arts.â€
Mishaal Al Gergawi, Projects & Events Manager of Dubai Culture, said that art patronage plays a significant role in shaping the cultural dynamics of the city. “Dubai Culture has taken the lead in establishing Dubai’s premier position in content creation. The enthusiastic patronage for the sector leads to greater international exposure for Dubai’s creative talent.â€
He added: “Dubai has already made significant development in the art forms of literature, visual arts, performing arts and film. The Award will be a stepping stone for the art patrons to become active partners in Dubai’s ambition to drive the nurturing of local talent.â€
The awards will be presented during Art Dubai, the leading contemporary art fair in the region, held annually in Dubai.
