Emaar International Art Symposium (EIAS), the fine arts event organised by Emaar Properties as part of its support of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), lends a distinctive artistic flourish to the festivities, as artists from around the world bring a new perspective of creativity to the city from February 6 to 28, 2008.

Now in its fourth year, EIAS is a prestigious event within the DSF calendar, and has, in previous years, showcased renowned artists and sculptors from around the world.

“The Emaar International Art Symposium defines Dubai’s creative spirit and is truly a global showcase of talent,” said Mr Ahmad Al Matrooshi, UAE Managing Director, Emaar Properties. “Every year, the standard of the artists is inspirational, winning the appreciation and respect of art lovers, and general observers, in the region.”

Carefully chosen artists from an international reach will start arriving in Dubai from February 5. The sculpting competition, to be held next to Jumeirah Beach Park in Jumeirah 2, will run from February 6 to 26, and the painting competition will be held at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club at Arabian Ranches from February 12 to 26.

A five-member jury will evaluate the works and three prize winners will be selected from each category. They will be awarded at the closing gala dinner ceremony to be held on February 28 at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club.

Initiated in 2004, the Emaar International Art Symposium reiterates Emaar’s commitment to corporate social responsibility of generating meaningful contributions to Dubai’s society. The event is specifically aimed at strengthening creative and artistic trends and culture in Dubai. EIAS also underscores the company’s vision in shaping the lives and landscapes of Dubai, by focusing on innovation, creative planning and following best practice initiatives.

Ms Laila Suhail, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Shopping Festival, said: “The Dubai Shopping Festival, now in its 13th edition, offers a refreshing retail and entertainment experience for visitors and residents. The Emaar International Art Symposium provides a fresh perspective to fine arts and adds to the extensive repertoire of events lined-up for this year. The event is a true celebration of the patronage extended by Dubai to arts and culture.”

"Emirates Airline is very proud to be involved in bringing artists of this calibre to Dubai," said Boutros Boutros, Senior Vice President Media Relations, Sponsorships & Events for Emirates, the official airline of the Emaar International Art Symposium. "Internationally recognised brands like Emirates and Emaar have helped put Dubai at the forefront of global consciousness by being innovators in their fields. Today, to the delight of its residents, Dubai is a city that talented artists and sportspeople clamour to visit."

Emaar, a global provider of premier lifestyles and pioneer of innovative community-living concepts, is the prime mover of the Emirate’s real estate and construction sector. “Emaar International Art Symposium is one of the city’s most significant celebrations of art and it is our privilege as a community provider to be associated with bringing creative talent to the city,” added Mr Al Matrooshi.