Egyptian artists were deeply involved in spearheading, capturing, and influencing the January 2011 uprising. Today a new generation of Egyptian activist artists carry the mantle of social justice and human rights. At times, their work takes a humorous angle, in the form of cartoons and political satire printed in newspapers, perhaps targeting a niche audience. Read more »
Archives for 2014
The renaissance of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s cultural projects have been a boon to the country and the wider region. They have spurred much-needed reforms that will hopefully be expanded and even replicated in the region. These projects — being built as much of the region’s heritage is lost — are also offering optimism to many in the Middle East that our future can also be full of life, colour and hope. Read more »
Dubai’s influence goes beyond just commerce
Over the past few decades Dubai has turned itself from a little known town to a global metropolis, hosting one of the world’s best airlines, biggest airports and most diverse populations. Dubai has become much larger than a city, it is now an idea. Read more »
Why Qatar’s intervention won’t help end the Gaza crisis
Weeks of brutal Israeli strikes on the heavily-populated Gaza strip have seen a number of political actors come forward to present a cease-fire plan. The deadlock, however, seems to be between Egypt and Qatar — both of whom have considerable leverage over Hamas, the Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated group that has ruled Gaza since 2007. The truth is that due to political bias on each side, neither country is fit to be an exclusive mediator in this situation. Read more »
Sky Over The East – In Conversation with Sultan Sooud Al Qassimi and Matthew Sansom
In an informative and upbeat discussion preceding the opening of the largest exhibition of modern Arab art in the UAE, Sultan Sooud Al Qassimi looked back on his adventures in art collecting. In addition to gaining a personal insight into the exhibition and the works presented, the audience learnt about the role of a collector, the story behind the Barjeel Art Foundation, the experiences of its founder, and his vision for the future. Read more »
Showdown in the Gulf
Over the past week, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the UAE took the unprecedented step of collectively withdrawing their ambassadors from Qatar, citing the latter’s disregard for their security. The following day, Egypt also announced a similar step. Observers viewed this as a message to Qatar to cease its support for the Muslim Brotherhood. Qatar issued […]