Magzoid Magazine - Luxury Magazine in the Creative Space | March 2024 |

SIKKA ART AND DESIGN FESTIVAL
ILLUMINATES AL SHINDAGHA
HISTORIC NEIGHBOURHOOD
Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood is currently radiating with the spirit of innovation and artistic flair as it
plays host to the 12th edition of the Sikka Art and Design Festival. Under the esteemed patronage of Her Highness
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority
and Member of the Dubai Council, this festival serves as a beacon for creativity, showcasing the talents of over
500 artists from the UAE, GCC, and around the world. Running until March 3, the festival stands as a testament
to Dubai’s cultural aspirations, aiming to establish itself as a global hub for creativity and talent.
UAE
Themed ‘New Creativity, Same Path’,
this year’s edition of the festival
boasts eight captivating murals,
each bearing the distinct mark of its
creator’s vision and reflecting the essence of
Dubai’s rich heritage and traditions. Among
the notable murals is ‘The Door to Pearls’ by
Emirati artist Duha Alhallami, symbolizing a
gateway to the appreciation of the country’s
cultural roots. Similarly, ‘Joy Step’ by Emirati
artists Maryam Rashid Alkaitoob and Manal
Bin Obood captures moments of joy and
happiness, inviting viewers to revel in life’s
simple pleasures.
Syrian artist Noor Bahjat raises awareness
about marine life with her mural ‘Fragile
World’, while Emirati artist Nawal Arjumand’s
‘Bloom into Spring’ invites festival visitors to
participate in a paint-by-numbers activity inspired
by the upcoming spring camp at Al
Jalila Cultural Centre for Children.
Other standout murals include ‘Taster’ by
Algerian artist Set, ‘Between the Lines’ by
Egyptian artist Rabab Tantawi and British
artist Fink 22, and ‘Beyond the Horizon’ by
British artist Myne and Yours, each offering a
unique perspective on themes of communication,
hope, and personal growth.
In addition to the murals, the festival
showcases 10 outdoor installations that celebrate
the historical significance of Dubai
Creek and its role in the emirate’s commercial
heritage. Emirati artist Alzaina Lootah’s
‘Shera’a’ captures the dynamic trade spirit of
Dubai Creek, while Abdalla Almulla’s ‘Hues
of Trade’ vividly portrays the bustling mercantile
life along the Creek’s shores.
Among the outdoor installations, ‘Sheryan
Al Hayat’ by Dr. Afra Atiq offers an immersive
experience inspired by poetry, while ‘The
Sea of Floating Dreams’ by Chinese artist
Gary Yong and Malaysian artist Enforce One
raises awareness about the importance of
preserving coral reefs.
From innovative architectural concepts
to vibrant landscape designs, the Sikka Art
and Design Festival transforms Al Shindagha
Historic Neighbourhood into a dynamic
canvas, inviting visitors to explore the intersection
of art, culture, and heritage. With
its diverse array of artistic expressions, the
festival reaffirms Dubai’s commitment to fostering
creativity and nurturing the talents of
its vibrant cultural community.
www.magzoid.com March 2024
45