RAS AL KHAIMAH, 3rd February, 2024 (WAM) -- Ras Al Khaimah Art, the year-long cultural initiative nurturing existing and emerging talent, has officially opened the 12th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival, presented by Aldar.
H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, opened this year’s festival, showcasing the talent of more than 100 local and international artists from over 35 different nationalities under the theme of “In Motion”.
The theme is inspired by the idea of the constant evolution of our diverse world and invites visitors to reimagine the possibilities for the next decade.
During the event, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr highlighted the significance of this preeminent cultural event, which reflects Ras Al Khaimah’s rich history, culture and heritage, and asserts the emirate’s commitment to nurturing inspiring talent and investing in the creative industries.
“Culture and the arts are a common language between nations and peoples, carrying a noble message that enriches communication and reinforces the values of harmony and tolerance. They are an integral part of building communities and a key pillar of our sustainable development,” Sheikh Saud said.
Alongside Sheikh Saud, high-profile dignitaries from several countries attended the event to celebrate incredible talent from creatives around the world.
In attendance were Nicolas Niemtchinow, Ambassador of the French Republic to the UAE; Martina A. Strong, Ambassador of the United States to the UAE; Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the UAE; Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the UAE; Byung-Jun Moon, Consul-General of the Republic of Korea in Dubai and the Northern Regions; and Meghan Gregonis, Consul-General of the United States in Dubai.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Natasha Ridge, founding Executive Director of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, said, “The Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival is a key highlight in our year-round programming, acting as an integral moment for showcasing and nurturing emerging creatives and the community. Beyond art, the Festival is also an inspiring and engaging community event with an exciting line-up of exhibitions and events for all ages, inviting visitors to ponder the themes of motion and change and reexamine the ‘new normal’ through a creative lens.”
Presented by Aldar, this year’s Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival will feature all the award-winning artworks, in addition to a diverse series of cultural programming and creative experiences designed to engage the community. From art and film screenings to heritage talks, art workshops and musical performances, each weekend will be centred around special themes with dedicated activities: Pet Friendly Weekend, 9-11 February; Family & Community Weekend, 16-18 February; and Cultural Weekend, 23-25 February.
Speaking about the Festival, Faisal Falaknaz, Group Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer at Aldar, commented, “We are delighted to partner with Ras Al Khaimah Art, a festival that will showcase the vibrant and diverse artistic talents that flourish across the UAE. This collaboration is more than a partnership for Aldar, it's a testament to our belief in the power of art to connect communities, and we are excited to work with a selection of the participants to bring their art pieces into the lives of the people who reside, work, and visit the places we develop and manage in Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.”
New for the Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival is The Souq – Unveiling Human Echoes, a contemporary art exhibition and market featuring artists and craftspeople from around the world. Also new for the 12th edition is the installation of a “Gratitude Wall”, curated in partnership with Sukooni, an innovative mental health startup. Visitors will be invited to reflect on what they are grateful for, transforming these reflections into a collective art piece, providing a tangible and creative outlet for expressing and acknowledging the often-overlooked aspects of mental well-being.
Visitors can also enjoy a range of gastronomic experiences including cultural heritage dining experience Antica Australis and Grill Artistry from Chef Jeferson Finger, the maestro behind Barbacoa Churrascaria. Boasting high-profile fans, from the Saudi Royal Family to F1 legend Sebastian Vettel and Guns N’ Roses’ lead guitarist Slash, Barbacoa Churrascaria will offer visitors the chance to experience the highest quality cuts.
The 12th edition of Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival is presented by Aldar, supported by Stevin Rock, RAK Ports, RAK Porcelain, MonViso, RAK Hospitality Holdings’ RAKGAS, VOX Cinemas, The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, Nikon and RAK Transport Authority, as well as Cultural Partners from The US Mission to the UAE, Marinko Sudac Foundation, Department of Antiquities and Museums, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany and Goethe-Institut Golf Region-Abu Dhabi.
Full details and timings for Ras Al Khaimah Art 2024 Festival can be found at the following link: https://www.rakart.ae/2024-festival.