The Sikka Art and Design Festival, presented by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, is holding its 13th edition. Running until 9 February 2025, the festival makes the Al Shindagha Historic District of Dubai lively thanks to different exhibitions and performances.
The festival is being held under the patronage of HH Sheikha Latifa Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture. The event provides a platform for artists to display their work across various practices and mediums. It is being held in 19 houses throughout the neighbourhood, as well as in the countryside and along Dubai Creek. The Sikka offers a diverse experience, with something for everyone — from art to music and food.
The Authority has invited all Emirati, UAE-based, and GCC-based artists, creatives, and designers to participate and present their works. Visitors are welcome to explore over 300 pieces across various disciplines, created by more than 500 artists. In addition, performers and culinary artists were encouraged to apply for the 13th edition of the festival, which features workshops and live performances, including music and dance.
A platform for sharing opinions
To foster discussions, the festival also hosts talks on contemporary art. For example, on 1 February, House 196 featured a talk by art expert Sophie She, where the evolving role of grassroots platforms in shaping Dubai’s creative narrative was discussed.
Workshops
For children, there are interactive workshops and creative spaces, such as Little Sikka, where they engage in creative activities. The Children’s Pavilion at Al Shindagha allows kids to explore Emirati heritage, and Dubai Police hosts a workshop featuring bookmark-making and tote bag colouring.
Installations and exhibitions
Art enthusiasts can explore The Urban House and The Design House, where local and international artists are showcasing their works. At Khaleeji House, artists from the GCC have come together for the first time to present their art in a collective exhibition. One of the standout projects, Wind Canvases, is a collaborative effort by six artists who have transformed sailing boats into moving canvases, symbolising the cultural essence of the UAE.
In The Urban House, visitors can experience The Anatomy of Vulnerability, a group exhibition curated by Ahmad Makary in collaboration with Workshop DXB. This installation delves into the complexities of human emotions under the theme of vulnerability. Each room features a distinct installation, portraying various emotional states such as ego, apologies, and more.
Local food
Workshops are also a highlight of the festival, including opportunities to learn latte art, cake decoration, and other creative skills from The Sxill training institution. Food lovers are offered a range of homegrown food concepts, with the Sikka Super Club series offering exclusive meals prepared by chefs with specialities ranging from Middle Eastern to French and Levantine cuisine.
Additionally, you might be interested in visiting Colour Gives Me Life, a group exhibition at Firetti Contemporary.
To stay updated with the latest art news, you can join our Telegram channel.
