Hayat Arts is a UAE platform for innovative artists: Safa Peshimam

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

Arts promoter Hayat Arts, the platform which holds group and solo exhibitions, is already a veteran in the art field, though established only last December-end. “We are dedicated to showcasing contemporary art in all its forms and providing a space for emerging and established artists to showcase their work,” says Safa Peshimam, award- winning artist and co-founder, who established Hayat Arts along with her sister Sarah Peshimam, a graphic and interior designer. “Our exhibitions feature a wide range of art forms including painting, sculpture, photography and video art and our organisation offers a range of exciting exhibitions and events showcasing the work of the most talented artists.” Safa Peshimam frames her answers to Gulf Today’s questions

How many exhibitions has Hayat Arts hosted? Can you give their details?

Hayat Arts has hosted four exhibitions so far. Bidayatan (The Beginning) was the inaugural group art exhibition featuring 22 artists from various nationalities. It opened in Wyndham at the Deira Creek, Dubai. The exhibition included a competition for the top three artworks, which were awarded to artists Edcel Cabalan, Naura Fathima and Abid Alam, based on jury recommendation. Heena Mamtani was delighted to be chosen Artist of the Month!

The second exhibition was named Whispers of Love and was held in February. It celebrated love, passion, and empathy in Days by Wyndham. Many new artists presented their work there. Iman, the 50-day-long third exhibition celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan, also hosted an art competition, which showcased multiple new and first-time artists. Respective creators of the top three artworks, namely, Amritha Subba, Sarri and Edcel Cabalan, were delighted to be awarded prizes based on the choice of the jury comprising Nada Al Barazi, Ahmed Al Awadhi Rukni and Peter Gressman. SOLO by Safa was the last exhibition of February, organised at a small and private gathering in Radisson Blu Creek Hotel in Deira Dubai. Besides distinguished guests, our artist friends from Afghanistan, Nangialia Bahadery and Reza Rahi, also were present. Legendary Queens was a live painting workshop, held in March, honouring the strength and power of women during the week of International Women’s Day observations.

Who are your supporters?

Hayat Arts has a diverse range of supporters, including artists, art enthusiasts, collectors, curators and the general public, who appreciate contemporary art in all its forms.

How different is an artist and an arts organiser?

I have a Masters in International Business Management with Marketing Honors and graduated from Heriot Watts University Dubai. I have been drawing and sketching since childhood and have been participating as an artist in the UAE art community, since close to three years. Sarah is an Interior Designer who also graduated from Heriot Watts University Dubai. Her art creates landscapes of visually pleasing architectural structures. As art organisers, our role is to curate exhibitions and events that showcase the work of talented artists, both emerging and established. We collaborate with them, manage logistics, arrange installations, create marketing material and social posts, to ensure that the exhibitions we organise are flawless. Both roles are fulfilling in their own ways, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the world of art in different ways.

Dubai-based Safa Peshimam (left) is the co-founder of Hayat Arts. Sarah Peshimam is the co-founder of Hayat Arts.

What are the challenges you have faced?

One of the main challenges has been finding the right balance between showcasing emerging and established artists. Additionally, organising exhibitions and events requires meticulous planning and coordination, which can be challenging - especially when dealing with multiple artists and artworks. Another challenge is creating a sustainable business model that allows us to continue supporting the art community while also covering our costs, to ensure the financial viability of our organisation.

What are the qualities needed for an artist to show with Hayat Arts?

First and foremost, we look for his or her passion and craze for talent. The emotional connection artists have with their work and the drive and passion to express themselves through their art, follows next. We value creativity, originality and a strong artistic vision. Irrespective whether one is an established or an emerging artist, we welcome all who are committed to pushing the boundaries of their art forms, to showcase innovative works. We also appreciate artists who are open to collaboration.

Why do you display the works mainly of emerging artists?

As artists, we understand the need to have the right platform to showcase art, to market and promote to the right audience, especially in the initial stages. By showcasing their work, we aim to provide them with a platform to shine and share their unique perspectives with the world.

How will Hayat Arts impact the arts ecology of the Emirates?

We seek to foster a sense of community among artists, art enthusiasts and encourage dialogue and collaboration with other organisers in the UAE and globally. We are proud to state that we have had multiple artists participating from out of UAE who have especially travelled to Dubai to attend exhibitions organised by Hayat Arts. By attracting international talent, we hope to make the Emirates a hub for artistic creativity.

What is your ambition for Hayat Arts?

It is to create a vibrant and inclusive art community where artists from all backgrounds can thrive and showcase their talent. We want Hayat Arts to be a platform that nurtures creativity, fosters collaboration, and inspires innovation. We hope to promote a deeper appreciation for contemporary art and contribute to the cultural enrichment of society.