Mohammed Al Sanea’s work titled We,The Boys.

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

Rayan Imad Hakki, General Manager and Exhibition Curator at Khawla Art Gallery (KAG), Dubai Design District, is a native of Saudi Arabia. Raised in Beirut, Lebanon, she holds a BA in Architecture from Academie Libanaise des Beaux-Arts University, Lebanon. A love and appreciation of art and culture led her to pursue further education in Arts and Business at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, along with participating in a masterclass with Christie’s online education. Hakki is currently overseeing KAG’s ‘Summer Collective Exhibition’, inaugurated on July 10. On show till August 31, it is a celebration of contemporary art from the MENA region, showcasing a blend of emerging talent and established artists, spanning miniature paintings, upcycled art, oil and acrylic masterpieces, calligraphy, and charcoal creations. The exhibition also seeks to encourage and educate young and new collectors about MENA art. Rayan Imad Hakki speaks to Gulf Today about why one should support Arab art

How does one benefit from investing in Arab art?

Investing in Arab art isn’t just about financial gain; it’s about preserving and celebrating a rich cultural heritage shaped over centuries, with diverse influences and powerful narratives. When you invest in Arab art, you’re not just buying an art piece; you’re supporting artists, galleries and cultural institutions in the region. You’re helping nurture creativity and innovation, and you’re contributing to a global conversation that transcends politics and stereotypes. The beauty and significance of Arab art can have a profound impact on the world. And yes, there’s certainly financial potential, as the market for Arab art continues to grow and gain recognition worldwide. This is evident in major auction houses where the prices of Arab art have significantly spiked, reaching high levels.

  A work by Reem Al Dhaheri. Right: Rayan Imad Hakki at Khawla Art Gallery.

Do you think a cultural block prevents non-Arabs from investing in Arab art?

Art has an incredible ability to speak directly to our hearts, no matter what our background. Arab art connects with the stories and emotions that artists pour into their work. These artists aren’t just creating beautiful pieces; they’re sharing their culture, history, and dreams. When people, regardless of their nationality or background, take the time to understand these stories and appreciate the depth of Arab art, something magical happens. They start to see beyond any initial hesitations or cultural barriers and begin to trust in the artists and their messages. They see the power of art to make statements, challenge ideas, and inspire change. So, when we consider whether a cultural block might prevent non-Arabs from investing in Arab art, I believe the opposite is true. Art bridges cultural gaps and brings people together. It encourages dialogue and understanding, opens doors to new perspectives and experiences. As more people from different cultures engage with Arab art and recognise its value, they are investing in a shared human experience that transcends boundaries and enriches us all.

Middle Easterners themselves are not educated enough about their culture. If this is so, how do you overcome it?

This is partially true; some Middle Easterners do not know enough about their culture due to drawbacks in the educational curricula and the media’s lack of coverage of cultural events. However, this has been changing drastically in recent years. Like in any other field, Middle Easterners have often looked for inspiration or passions from other regions and overlooked their own culture, following trends, so to speak. But today, we see a great shift where tastemakers, designers and the public, are looking inwards before looking elsewhere. They want to learn about their own artists, appreciate them, get inspired by them, and invest in them. This shift won’t happen overnight. The first step is raising awareness and appreciation among Middle Easterners themselves. It’s about showcasing their talents, understanding their stories, and investing in their potential. We need galleries, art collectors, universities, and schools start doing this. I can say that today we are on the right track, and with persistence and collaboration, Arab art will have a strong presence, and everyone, from the critics to the curious, will be educated about it.

How does Khawla Art Gallery invest in Arab art?

Our investment programme has several layers, from acquiring art pieces to promoting Arab artists and collaborating with international entities to create long-term exchanges that showcase and educate people about Arab art and artists. First and foremost, we emphasise the importance of supporting the new generation of artists. Our primary goal is to promote and encourage young, up-and-coming talent. By providing exhibition space and promotion, we invest in these emerging artists, fostering their growth and helping them gain visibility. We also cherish the works of renowned artists who have already made significant contributions to the world of Arab art. Our collection includes pieces from artists who have shaped and transformed perceptions of Arab art, both regionally and internationally. Additionally, we invest in very young artists and students. This investment is a form of encouragement, helping them continue creating and developing their portfolios.

Won’t collective efforts by Middle East galleries project MENA art more than individual efforts? Is Khawla Art Gallery working towards this?

Definitely! Collaborating with other Middle Eastern entities — whether they are galleries, institutions, museums, universities, schools, or even individuals — is the core of our success in promoting Arab art and talent. We have collaborated with several galleries and institutions from Lebanon, Egypt, and within the UAE. Collective efforts are pivotal; without them, we would not achieve the same results.