News DeskAbu Dhabi, UAE – The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), in collaboration with the UAE Embassy to the Republic of Korea, proudly launched the third edition of the ‘Art @ Embassies’ initiative, a key cultural diplomacy effort designed to showcase Emirati culture and foster creative exchanges. The event, held on 2 September 2024 at the UAE Embassy in Seoul, featured an insightful panel discussion with renowned Emirati artist Mohammed Kazem and Gahee Park, curator at the Seoul Museum of Art.
During the discussion, Kazem, who is currently in residence at the SeMA Nanji Residency, shared his artistic journey, inspirations, and perspectives on the evolving Emirati art scene. The event also highlighted the broader cultural landscape of the UAE, reflecting on the nation’s role as a hub for creativity and artistic expression.
Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF, emphasized the significance of this initiative in promoting cross-cultural exchange and artistic dialogue. “Under the honorary patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, we are proud to present the third edition of the ‘Art @ Embassies’ initiative,” she said. “This program celebrates the UAE’s contributions to the global arts and creative industries, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for creative talent.”
Kanoo also noted the importance of this event in strengthening cultural diplomacy between the UAE and South Korea, particularly in light of the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ADMAF and the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The MoU, signed in May in Abu Dhabi, aims to foster partnerships and exchanges in culture, arts, and education, furthering mutual understanding and respect between the two cities.
UAE Ambassador to South Korea, Abdulla Saif Ali Slayem AlNuaimi, lauded the UAE’s longstanding commitment to the arts, emphasizing that creativity is vital to the nation’s strategic vision for long-term prosperity. He expressed gratitude for the continued support of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose patronage has been instrumental in the success of this initiative over the years.
Mohammed Kazem, a pioneering figure in the UAE’s contemporary art scene, has been at the forefront of conceptual and interdisciplinary art for nearly four decades. Known for his innovative use of GPS coordinates and explorations of themes like identity and movement, Kazem has exhibited his work both domestically and internationally, including at prestigious venues such as the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Venice Biennale.
The ‘Art @ Embassies’ initiative marks a significant step in deepening the cultural ties between the UAE and South Korea, creating new opportunities for artistic collaboration and international cooperation. Through this initiative, ADMAF continues to support its vision of nurturing the arts, culture, and education for the benefit of society and the advancement of Abu Dhabi’s cultural aspirations.
