Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
The 18th edition of DIFC Art Nights (Nov. 7 – 15), also saw the celebration of creativity and cultural exchange under the theme Art Connects Women (ACW), led by ZeeArts Gallery. Adding prestige to the event, the inaugural was graced by distinguished guests, including Dr. Saeed Kharbash, CEO of Dubai Culture and Saleh Al Akrabi, CEO of CREO DIFC. ACW featured the works of 24 female artists from around the globe. They showcased their diverse perspectives and highlighted their contributions to the global art ecology. Held at Gate Village in the heart of Dubai’s financial district, the occasion transformed the venue into a hub of art, drawing artists, collectors and the public together, to celebrate creativity and inclusivity.
An annual initiative now in its 8th edition, ACW is organised under the patronage of UNESCO and has grown into a global platform for women artists. Launched in 2017 with only 20 artists representing 20 countries, the initiative has evolved into a movement welcoming over 600 art makers from across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Oceania, in 2024. ACW not only celebrates art, but also champions gender equality in the creative industry, which historically has been male-dominated. “By educating, empowering, and engaging female artists, ZeeArts aims to bridge the gender gap and foster a more inclusive art ecosystem,” says Zaahirah Muthy, Founder, ZeeArts and curator of the programme.
Emphasising the transformative power of art, she said that “art is a catalyst for change, offering an inclusive and unifying language in a divided world. It transcends boundaries and has tangible impacts on social, economic, and environmental well-being. Art Connects Women is our commitment to celebrating diversity and creating a platform for female artists to shine.” Participating artists included Aalya Abduleazzaq Alattar; Karine Roche; Jocelyn Lewisham; Labiba Ferhat; Madeleine Kurtsdotter; Neveen Abu Samra; Seren Al Khalaf; Rihab Saidam; Sanaa Kiblawi; Tatiana Yatlo; Zumrud Zeynalli; Majo Portilla; Eng. Suaad Al Shamsi; Gesere; Nayma Yasir; Alia Medhat; Asma Thabet; Abeer Al Edani; Graciela Noemi Ghirardosi; Sibel Yavuz; and Marion King.
Visual artist Karine Roche works with different media including digital, ink, oil, resin, collage of paper and textiles. Her paintings are landscapes which presents particular environments, inviting people to travel in urban and green territories. She is based in the UAE since 2009 and is member of the Emirates Fine Arts Society. Jocelyn Lewisham is an international artist from New Zealand, living in Dubai with her family.
“Much of my art is now inspired by my new homeland and is dominated by local and Arabian themes,” she says. “My style is diverse and my special use of acrylic medium is proving to be popular. I am trying to paint a feeling, using heavy texture and abstract styles to reach for a connection. Most of my works now are a play on the concept of abstraction. They are designed to catch the light and change as the day changes. They are abstract works that evolve and change.” Her technique is called impasto and her paintings are textured and designed to catch the light and advance. She has been successfully exhibiting in Dubai since 2011.
Madeleine Kurtsdotter is a Swedish contemporary artist, based in Dubai since 2015. Known for her experimental work with bold colours, textures and shapes and her passion for exciting contrasts, she mainly finds inspiration from nature, people and travels. Her longer stays in France, USA and the UAE, have also left their mark on her artwork. She mostly works with mixed techniques combining acrylic, oil and natural material. She also finds pleasure in working with aquarelle, collages and illustrations.
Madeleine has studied various art techniques, as well as graphic design and illustration at the reputed Berghs SoC in Sweden and others. She has exhibited her work in art galleries, art shows and public places in Sweden, France, Spain, Belgium, USA and the UAE.
Tatiana Yatlo, is a visual artist from Ukraine. She is known for her oil paintings. Recognised as an Art Ambassador for her homeland by Art Connects Women in 2022 and 2023, she holds a Guinness World Record for participating in the largest art lesson, with 65 nationalities represented. Her love for art began in her early years in Odessa, Ukraine, where her surroundings played a critical role in shaping her creative journey. After relocating to the UAE in 2018, she has devoted herself entirely to art. She is known for her realistic style that harmonises shapes and colours.
Sibel Yavuz is originally from Istanbul, Türkiye. She worked as a banker and auditor, before moving to Dubai in 2011. A qualified Turkish language instructor, painting has been her passion since childhood. “I finally began pursuing it when I gifted myself painting classes,” she says. “I am a self-taught artist, and when I paint, I lose myself in the process. My goal is to create meaningful and unique artworks, focusing on abstract and contemporary styles.” ACW will return for its 8th edition from April 5 – 8, 2025, under the theme Leave a Legacy. Women artists from all continents are invited to take part. Zaahirah Muthy is an artist-activist and curator. Hailing from Mauritius and based in the UAE, her mission is to bring positive changes in society through art. Her works have been exhibited all over the world, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the United States, and Asia.