The Calligraphy part of the event, that features artworks of different genres by UAE nationals kicked off Saturday 24th at 7.30pm. Inaugurated by H.E Sultan Saqr Sultan Al Suwaidi, Member of the Federal National Council and attended by Marwan Al Sarkal, CEO of Qanat Al Qasba Development Authority, the exhibition's first day attracted a number of art enthusiasts. Held under the patronage of Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, chairperson for the Supreme Council of Family Affairs and wife of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the exhibition will continue until April 4 at Marya Al Qanat daily from 10 a.m to 10 p.m.

With six talented UAE artists displaying 10 of their best works, the exhibition is designed to serve not only as a platform for projecting local art, but also as a means of getting together the professionals and fresh talent to network with each other.

Mohammed Mandi, a participating artist, is renowned for the glorious Quranic verses he has inscribed in many mosques around the UEA as well as abroad. A member of the Emirates Plastic Arts Association, he held his own first exhibition, 'My Beloved Dubai ', at Al Quoz and Heritage Village, and has participated in all domestic exhibitions held in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah and Dubai including at the Dubai Shopping Festival in 1999.

Mandi has also displayed his works at oversees exhibitions including in India, Paris, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait and Qatar.


Another artist of repute participating at QAQ is Majida Saleem Al Mazim, winner at many calligraphy exhibitions. Having studied the Arabic Calligraphy and ornamentation in Sharjah, she has participated at the Morocco Letters exhibition, Burjuman Centre, Dubai, 2002, and The Youth Talent exhibition at Sharjah University in 2003. Mazim has been placed first at the Arabic Calligraphy competition at the Sharjah Ladies Club in 2003 and has won second prize at the Sultan Bin Al Owais Studies and Creative Competition for the Youth.

Other artists displaying some captivating creations include Fatima Saeed, Ali Ibrahim, Ali Mohammed Murad, and Mohammed Bin Yahya.

Emirati Dimensions kicked off with the 'Painting and Mixed Media' on March 10. Over 35 UAE national artists will display their work at the exhibition, which will also display some unforgettable pictures at the upcoming 'Photography' on April 7, continuing until April 18. The exhibition will close with the 'Digital Art' presentation from April 21 to May 2.