Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, has stressed that the artistic scene in the UAE has been enhanced due to the space allocated for innovation and freedom of thought, which led to a universal culture and capacity to produce high-level artistic and cultural work.
He highlighted that art, like other components of culture in the UAE, is being appreciated and encouraged by the leadership and various relevant authorities.
"This represents an acknowledgment of the role of art and its position as a cornerstone for building civilisation and contributing to the development of the UAE community," Sheikh Nahyan added.
He noted that the entire world is appreciating this renaissance in all sectors, which is proven by the exceptional creative contributions to the UAE pavilion at the 57th edition of Venice Biennale that started on Tuesday. The event is organised by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, with the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation as the official commissioner.
The minister stressed that the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development is keen to participate in the Venice Biennale on an annual basis to support art and artists, and presents a better image of the UAE and Arabic culture that appreciate and respect cultures and arts from all over the world.
He noted that this year’s participation has been particularly impressive, with the contribution from an exceptional group of UAE visual artists, in addition to discussions and dialogues programmes held in the UAE with the participation of different institutions in the country to explore the topics of the biennale.
Sheikh Nahyan highlighted that the UAE contributed to the Venice Biennale with artworks that reflect the country’s values, originality and willingness to communicate with others through artistic integration.
He said that arts and culture in the UAE are receiving constant support as part of a well-established vision. He thanked President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his great attention to this field, as well as Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, his brother His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Their Highnesses and Rulers of the Emirates.
Sheikh Nahyan thanked Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, Founder of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation, for the foundation's prominent role in supporting culture and arts in the UAE, and strengthening the link between the foundation and Venice Biennale.
He appreciated the foundation’s contribution to previous editions of the biennale, which supported the prominent position of the UAE on the Arab and international levels. He also extended his gratitude to all the authorities, individuals and groups participating in the nation’s pavilion at the biennale.

Source: WAM