Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award Recognizes Emerging Artists

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai

Artists Sara Farha and Khaled Shalkha have been honored with the 2024 Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award. Their winning project, “Echoes of Nature,” draws inspiration from the UAE’s diverse landscapes, aiming to evoke an appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and the urgent need for environmental conservation.

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, the award is a collaboration between NYU Abu Dhabi and the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF). The initiative seeks to support emerging artists in the UAE, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and contribute to the cultural landscape.

“Echoes of Nature” explores the intricate relationships between humans and the environment. The installation features interactive elements that encourage viewers to engage with the artwork and reflect on their own environmental impact. The project will be developed over the next eight months with mentorship from experts at NYUAD and ADMAF, culminating in a public exhibition.

Huda I. Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF, emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering creativity in the UAE. She highlighted the award’s role in empowering artists to realize their dreams and contribute to important conversations about sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The Christo and Jeanne-Claude Award, established in 2013, has become a significant platform for young artists in the UAE, offering them the opportunity to transition from academic practice to professional artistry. This year’s winners, Farha and Shalkha, were selected for their innovative approach and commitment to addressing environmental issues through art.

The winning project will not only enhance public awareness about the environment but also inspire future generations of artists to engage with critical global challenges. The award continues to honor the legacy of Christo and Jeanne-Claude, renowned for their large-scale environmental art installations, by encouraging creativity and innovation in the UAE’s burgeoning art scene.