Emerging Art Icons of 2023 recognised by Magzoid magazine in Dubai event

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

Magzoid Emerging Art Icons Awards 2023, presented by Wasaya and powered by Mavala, took place in the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA), Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, on May 15.

Magzoid magazine is a luxury publication in the MENA region. It covers art galleries, events, art exhibitions, art news, interviews leaders, entrepreneurs, industry veterans and artists. Dedicated to cultivating a sustainable and inclusive art ecosystem that cherishes creativity, diversity, and profound social impact, it strives to foster the art ecology of the UAE.The event showcased – and awarded - exceptional talents across various artistic disciplines in the UAE. It emphasised the significance of nurturing collaborations, sponsorships, residencies, and philanthropic endeavours, all of which contribute to the growth and development of the creative economy in the Emirates.

“The Emerging Art Icons 2023 platform holds significant importance not only for artists but also for the broader art industry,” said Khalil Abdulwahid, Emirati artist and Director of Fine Arts, Dubai Culture. “By offering galleries and exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their artwork, this platform affirms appreciation for artists’ creations. Such recognition serves as a profound source of motivation for individuals involved in artistic pursuits,” he added.

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The jury panel comprised renowned individuals, who shouldered the responsibility of selecting the most deserving artists and institutions for the awards. The distinguished jurors included Sacha Jafri, visionary artist well known for the profound impact of his humanitarian efforts; Lisa Ray, award-winning actor and co-founder of Upside Space; Abdulwahid; 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; visual artist Mona Bisawrupa Mohanty; Egor Sharay, cultural analyst and art consultant; Jyo John Mullor, digital artist; Idriss B, prominent Polygonal Sculptor and Tannaz Khaleghian, a visionary championing creativity.

  Moein Al Bastaki shows his magic.

Consulate Generals from Dubai honoured the ceremony with their presence and the list of attendees included official ministry representatives, investors, art collectors, chairpersons of art and creative bodies, and established brands. The event commenced with a mesmerising performance by Firdaus Orchestra; the function displayed a diverse array of artwork, from traditional paintings to experimental pieces that pushed the boundaries of what art can be and do. A diverse group of artists, including Tracie Eaton, Babita Shamji, Joanna Patejuk, Olga, Maggie, Aakansha, Camelia, Daianaaz, Ajit Gadekar, Eiman Al Qubati, Abdulla, Asma, Sara Al-Hail, Waaris, Tatiana Avanesian, Dina Khataan, Khaleghian and Kalopsia Wiz, showcased their talents on surround immersive galleries. Other exhibiting artists included Anaishaan Sidhwa, Diana Bakoush, Hasan Deeb, Priya Yabalyuri, Chris Aboutar, Gunjan Bhatt, Jacey Eikenbary, and Rubab Zahra.

The awards covered a wide range of categories. Winners of Magzoid Emerging Art Icons 2023 were:

Best Emerging Artist – Sancler Graffit; Best Visual Art – Shyjith Onden Cheriyath; Best Installation Art – Kashir Mir; 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; Best Modern Calligraphy Art - Abdulqader Makanas; Best Contemporary Art – Christine El Ojeil; Best Street Art – Ramy Elzaghawy; Best Performance Art – Firdaus Orchestra; Best Up-and-Coming Art Critic – Gaith Abdulla; Best Art Blog – Tessy Koshy; Best Art Institution – NYU Abu Dhabi; Best Digital Art – Pavithra Suresh; Best Youth Art – Diya Advani; Best Emerging Curator – Ellen Nash; Best Emerging Art Gallery – Galloire; Best Artistic Innovation – Orkhan; Best Art Foundation for Emerging Artists – ADMAF; Best Child Art – Treshi Amanda; Best Artistic Social Impact – Mai Elsayed; Best Doodle Art – Hend Almurid and Best Abstract Art – Isa Moisei.

  Sher Oston energises the audience.

“The level of talent and creativity was truly inspiring. It was an honour to be part of such a vibrant and dynamic celebration of art and culture,” said Bechara. “I am truly in awe of the Magzoid Emerging Art Icons 2023 Awards. This event provides a powerful platform for these artists to showcase their work and make a lasting impact in the art world. “I am inspired by the commitment and vision of the organisers in fostering a sustainable and inclusive art ecosystem.

I can’t wait to see how this platform continues to shape the future of art and empower emerging artists to reach new heights,” said Varsha Sureka, guest contributor at Magzoid. Other notable performances included Shine’s Creed, an acclaimed performance group, who delighted the audience with their impressive LED-light show. Sher Oston’s performance brought his unique signature style and energy to the stage. Emirati mentalist and magician Moein Al Bastaki astounded the audience with an incredible feat which defied gravity, as he made a girl levitate in thin air before the audience’s eyes. Illizium concluded the event with a sensational LED drum show, mesmerising the audience with a dynamic performance. “TODA takes immense pride in being the official sponsor of the Emerging Art Icon Ceremony,” said Teogene Alexus, Head of Corporate and Brand Partnerships. “The event truly embodied a magnificent celebration of art and culture, and we were overjoyed to have the opportunity to support this dynamic and inspiring gathering of talented artists and creative visionaries. Our involvement has been instrumental in fostering the growth and development of the UAE’s creative economy, while nurturing a sustainable and inclusive art ecosystem that champions creativity, diversity, and social impact.”