Launched in October by The Diplomacy Lab, the UAE Africa Connect at Abu Dhabi Art initiative engages with artists and galleries participating in the art fair who come to or represent Africa.
UAE Africa Connect was present in the community and social space to share information on the platform and to develop and raise awareness of upcoming activations and opportunities.
Dyala Nusseibeh, Director of Abu Dhabi Art, said, “The UAE Africa Connect initiative at Abu Dhabi Art was significant, highlighting the possibilities for greater cultural collaboration between the Gulf and Sub-Saharan Africa. alongside their exhibition space brought together two prominent galleries, Kó Gallery from Nigeria and Afriart Gallery from Uganda, alongside All Africa festival founder Nina Olatoke and moderated by curator Munira Al Sayegh.
“The ensuing discussion across the panel and the critical topics raised set the stage for future cooperation that we all look forward to.”
Farshied Jabarkhyl, Head of the Diplomacy Lab, said: “The UAE is uniquely positioned to establish this platform, as it places tremendous importance on the power of cultural collaboration, and specifically what can be achieved through to cultural diplomacy. With a particular focus on the arts, these platforms can create powerful and impactful channels for cooperation and growth between countries.”
The work of UAE Africa Connect will be carried out through initiatives in the form of sessions of intercultural dialogue, research, empowerment, investment and youth engagement, all with the aim of highlighting and reinforce the rich cultural histories of these nations and the positive impact of working with the creative economy.