Special Correspondent
DUBAI (UAE): Magzoid Emerging Art Icons Awards 2023, a landmark event in the global art and culture calendar, unfolded with grandeur at the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA) in Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. This captivating event served as a meaningful celebration, showcasing exceptional talents across various artistic disciplines. It emphasized the significance of fostering collaborations, sponsorships, residencies, and philanthropic endeavors, all of which contribute to the growth and development of the creative economy in the UAE.
Magzoid is dedicated to cultivating a sustainable and inclusive art ecosystem that cherishes creativity, diversity, and profound social impact, making it an influential pillar within the industry.
“The Emerging Art Icons 2023 platform holds significant importance not only for artists but also for the broader art industry, as it serves to promote and elevate artistic endeavors as an exceptional avenue for discovering emerging talents. The ongoing economic prosperity witnessed in the UAE is playing a crucial role in propelling the creative economy forward. Emerging Art Icons 2023 provides a commendable platform for artists, instilling encouragement within the creative community. By offering galleries, exhibitions, and opportunities to showcase their artwork, this platform affirms appreciation for artists’ creations. Such recognition serves as a profound source of motivation for any individual involved in artistic pursuits,” said Khalil Abdu Wwahid, an Emirati artist also serving as the Director of Fine Arts, Dubai Culture.
The jury panel comprised renowned and highly esteemed individuals who shouldered the significant responsibility of selecting the most deserving artists and institutions for the awards. These distinguished jurors included Sacha Jafri, a visionary artist renowned for his profound impact and humanitarian efforts, Lisa Ray, an award-winning actor & co-founder of the Upside Space, Khalil Abdul Wahid, Emirati artist, Amrita, the first NFT artist in the UAE, Kristel Bechara, the first Middle Eastern NFT artist, Khalid Ali Al Jallaf, Chairman of UAE Calligraphy, Ebraheem Al Samadi, Dubai Bling star and CEO of Forever Rose, Mona Bisawrupa Mohanty, a passionate visual artist, Egor Sharay, cultural analyst and art consultant, Jyo John Mullor, an exceptional digital artist, Idriss B, a prominent Polygonal Sculptor and Tannaz Khaleghian, a visionary championing creativity. Their collective expertise ensured a fair and meticulous selection process that upheld the integrity of the awards.
Consulate Generals from Dubai honored the ceremony with their presence and the list of esteemed attendees extended to include official ministry representatives, investors, art collectors, chairpersons from art & creative bodies, and visionary brands.
The event commenced with a mesmerizing performance by Firdaus Orchestra. The audience was enthralled by the orchestra’s talent and artistry, creating an unforgettable experience that resonated throughout the event. The ceremony displayed a diverse array of artwork, from traditional paintings to more experimental pieces that pushed the boundaries of what art could be.
Emerging Art Icons 2023 was a celebration of art and creativity in all its forms. The awards covered a wide range of categories, recognizing excellence in various areas.
Amongst the Winners of Magzoid Emerging Art Icons 2023 were: Best Emerging Artist – Sancler Graffit, Best Visual Art – Shyjith Onden Cheriyath, Best Art Influencer – Afra Aldhaheri, Best Artistic Achievement – Nada Al Barazi, Best NFT Art – Anna Chekh, Best Traditional Calligraphy Art – Fatema Al Syed Best Public Art – Shahul Hameed, Best Art Instagram Account – Andakulova, Best Artistic Entrepreneur – Patrick Moritz, Best Artist of Determination – Abdulla Lutfi.
The highly awaited title of Best Installation Art, emerging from a highly competitive number of nominees, won by Shabir Mir Kashir a UAE based Pakistani artist .A multi-disciplinary practitioner in the Arts – specializing in Sculpture and Curation. His creative vision secured him the title of Best Installation Art, affirming his status as a promising luminary in the realm of art curation.
“It was an unforgettable evening celebrating the incredible talent and creativity of emerging artists. This event provides a powerful platform for these artists to showcase their work and make a lasting impact in the art world. I am honoured to receive the best installation Artists Award. I am so thankful to ART ICONS 2023 Awards by Magzoid Magazine, Theatre of Digital Art Dubai, All the jurors and organizers. I am overwhelmed by the support I get from Dubai, a city of dreams” said Shabir Mir Kashir
The ceremony was a celebration of the power of art to connect people, inspire change, and create new possibilities. It was a testament to the importance of supporting emerging artists and creative thinkers and to the value of collaboration and innovation in the art field.
