[ISEA2014] Introduction: Joshua Watts (Site Curator) – AL FAHIDI HISTORICAL NEIGHBORHOOD

Introductory Statement

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority was launched in March 2008 as a key initiative of the Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Under the leadership of His Excellency Abdul Rahman Al Owais, Chairman; and Her Highness Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dubai Culture has played a crucial role in further establishing Dubai as a vibrant, global Arabian metropolis that shapes culture and the arts in the region.The area of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood was built in 1859 and was famous for signature wind towers creating an iconic skyline for Dubai. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is now a tourist village with a museum, a cultural centre, restaurants and an art gallery.

The Al Fahidi area includes a number of artists in multiple partner venues within the historic district of old Dubai. This location represents the origins of Dubai settlement as a trading hub welcoming people from every part of the world. It is with great honor that we present these contemporary works of electronic art within the spaces that helped shape the history and traditions of life in the UAE.

  • Joshua Watts is an artist and educator based in Dubai.  joshuawatts.net