In celebration of the UAE’s dynamic creative landscape, Villa 88 joined forces with heritage brand Jumeirah to present a panel discussion titled Canvas of Her Identity: Emirati Women Shaping Culture Through Art. Designed to showcase the unique talents of Emirati creatives whose individual work is helping to progress the country’s ever-evolving culture.
The panel brought together designer and artist Feryal Al Bastaki, visual artist Alreem Al Mansoori, multidisciplinary artist Wafa Al Falahi, and acclaimed photographer Lamya Gargash. Each woman is a leader in her own right, collectively representing Emirati talent across the art space.
At its core, these artists are using their pieces to serve as a vessel for storytelling. The creatives are each prioritising merging tradition with modern sensibilities with the goal of safeguarding Emirati culture for generations to come.
From Feryal’s innovative approach to design to Lamya’s photographic explorations of cultural memory, each artist illustrates the unique role that women are playing in shaping the UAE’s creative identity.
More than a conversation, the event underscored Villa 88’s commitment to elevating female voices and Jumeirah’s dedication to fostering cultural dialogue within the region. By spotlighting these trailblazing women, the panel not only celebrated their artistry but also inspired the next generation to embrace creativity as a form of empowerment.
In the words of the panellists, ‘art is not only a reflection of who we are, but also an invitation to imagine who we can become’. With events like Canvas of Her Identity, Villa 88 and Jumeirah reaffirm their role as champions of Emirati women, shaping the nation’s cultural future.
