ISOAG enhances art season with exhibition and legacy book launch

After opening its doors to a spectacular celebration of creativity recently through its annual exhibition in its Dubai spaces, the International Studio of Art & Galleries (ISOAG) formally launched its publication titled Art Impact at the Sharjah International Book Fair. The book depicts the creative journeys of nearly 50 artists who took part in the exhibition.

Hosted at ISOAG’s Al Safa studio, the exhibition drew art lovers, collectors, cultural critics and dignitaries to witness the convergence of enthusiasm, imagination and talent. Artists, patrons and culture professionals from across the UAE and beyond got together, “affirming ISOAG’s position as one of the region’s most dynamic cultural institutions,” said Ruxeena Musthafa, ISOAG Founder and Creative Director.

Artists at ISOAG show.

She is at the helm of ISOAG artistic endeavours, along with Managing Director Najah Musthafa. Their shared vision shapes ISOAG as a hub of purposeful art making.

According to the duo, art without purpose is futile. With a keen eye on publicising and promoting art in the larger community, they take great pains to draw in families to familiarise them with the social glue of art.

Their leadership has cultivated an ecosystem that celebrates both established and emerging talent – children to adult art makers - ensuring that art is a living dialogue and organic link between traditional culture and futuristic change. The exhibition pulsed with creative energy, as over 50 artists presented their works across mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. Each piece spoke of a story of proud resilience, sharp imagination, sound vision and the irrepressible human spirit that seeks beauty.

Front and back covers of Art Impact.

It showcased an extraordinary range of artistic expression from around the world. Each artist contributed a distinct voice, style and world view. Together, the artworks formed a vivid constellation of contemporary artistic creativity. “It defines ISOAG’s creative community,” said Najah Musthafa. The Art Impact book, which had a soft launch during the event, is a chronicle of the collective spirit. Printed as a premium edition, it features artists’ works alongside their bios, presenting the creative process with a view to inspire those who would like fresh ideas and also draw in those who are as yet outside the art circle.

The volume is being distributed across galleries, collector circles, cultural institutions and design studios throughout the UAE. The book’s soft launch was graced by the presence of well-known Emirati artists Khalil Abdulwahid and Faisal Abdul Qader, whose presence underscored the cultural significance of the occasion. In their address, they praised the gallery’s role in nurturing creativity and strengthening the UAE’s global reputation as a centre of artistic excellence.

Their acknowledgment of the artists’ dedication and ISOAG’s contribution to shaping cultural identity, was well received by the audience. It was a moment that encapsulated the spirit of collective unity and mutual respect that characterises the ISOAG family.

Najah Musthafa, ISOAG Managing Director.

Artists featured in the Art Impact volume are Adrian Thomas, Ahmad Nizam Othman, Alex Rodrigues, Amna Ali, Anita Balaji, Anjini Prakash Laitu, Anu Bafna, Azka, Batoul Gharaibeh, Behnaz Zohouri, Christine Aithana Miranda, Cristina Gabriela Buzatu, Erum Durrani, Farah Alblooshi, Inga Butkute, Isabelle Alves Da Silva Neves, Jameela Bin Salman, Jayanath K, John Ravi, Karan Kumar, Karima Al Shomely, Katherene Anand, Lariss, Maha Albassam, Mahabbeh Mowakket, Malavika Ramdas, Mandana Taheri, Maryam Albastaki, Mayimounah Fawzi Karati, Mirna Hatoum, Najah Musthafa, Niveen Unas, Olga Sova, Olivier Schuppisser, Pisol Boonsiripunth, Prasanth Chandran, Ruby Quirante-Narag, Rusham Deepak, Ruxeena Musthafa, Sagar Rokaha, Salama Al Mazrouei, Shafeek Zubair, Sheba Mariam Philip, Shilpa Srinivas, Shri N and Sunanda Docherty.

“Each name represents not just an artist, but a journey of discipline, discovery, and devotion,” said Ruxeena Musthafa. “Together, they have created a showcase that transcends medium and geography. It reflects ISOAG’s inclusive ethos and its mission to let every creative voice be heard.” She is an award winning artist, educator and cultural leader and the recipient of the UAE’s Cultural Golden Visa and India’s Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the country’s highest award in the field of cinema. The Phalke Award is presented annually by the Government of India to individuals for their outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.

An abstract artist, Ruxeena has exhibited her works worldwide, from World Art Dubai to the New York Art Expo. She is also a poet, songwriter and special needs art educator who has hosted 30 episodes of Art2Heart, a Dubai based TV series.

Ruxeena Musthafa helms ISOAG.

Najah Musthafa is an artist and art psychotherapist who wants art as a force for healing and social change. She is also a CEO and Co-Founder of MENATA and is the Clinical Director of Monarch Health Care Centers. She believes that art and creativity can help reshape mental health and strengthen human connections. MENATA is an alliance that unites trauma-responsive care sectors, clinicians, advocates and change-makers across the region.

Founded in 2021, ISOAG, besides being a gallery, opens its doors for independent artists and organisations to present their work. Over seventy per cent of its studio is dedicated to celebrating artistic expression in all its forms. From intimate solo showcases to large collective exhibitions, it offers artists a platform where they can present their works confidentally.

ISOAG also has an Activity Hub, designed as an inclusive art school for all ages. First time learners rub shoulders and brushes with external facilitators here. ISOAG also hosts workshops and seasonal camps for children. “This dynamic blend of education and exploration is the beating heart of ISOAG,” say the Musthafas.