Painting embodies spirit of universal brotherhood

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

‘The Journey of Humanity’, the painting by British artist Sacha Jafri which created the Guinness World Record for the largest art canvas in the world, embodies Dubai’s spirit of seeking to bring the world together for the good of humanity, said Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.

Hala Badri visited the Palm’s ballroom at Atlantis, The Palm to view the painting that Sacha completed as part of his ‘Humanity Inspired’ charitable initiative.

She indicated that this visit falls within the framework of Dubai Culture’s keenness to support valuable cultural and creative efforts of all kinds, praising the humanity that is instilled in the painting and the noble goal behind its execution. She emphasised the positive impact that such initiatives play in supplementing and disseminating culture among members of society to motivate and inspire creative people.

She added, “The ‘The Journey of Humanity’ painting, in its creative and human aspects, embodies the spirit of Dubai, which aims to bring the world together in one place, build bridges between cultures, and commit to changes for the good of humanity. Our support for this work at Dubai Culture is in line with our commitment to strengthening the emirate’s position as a leading global centre for all cultural and creative events and activities as well as in line with the goals of the Authority’s ambitious six-year strategic roadmap to support, celebrate and inspire creative talent on their path towards excellence and giving.”

Sacha Jafri is a humanitarian, arts icons and one of the most prominent contemporary artists. ‘The Journey of Humanity,’ which was unveiled in February, aims to achieve positive change in the lives of children who are underprivileged and the most affected by COVID-19 in the poorest regions of the world.

‘The Journey of Humanity’ aims to raise more than Dhs110 million across live auctions over the next 12 months, with the funds to be routed through Dubai Cares to the initiative’s beneficiary partners that include Unicef, Unesco, The Global Gift Foundation and Dubai Cares for their humanitarian initiatives to tackle issues related to children’s digital access to connectivity and learning, as well as healthcare and sanitation. The Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence and the Ministry of Education in the UAE also joined the initiative.