In a city celebrated for its grandeur and innovation, Dubai has birthed a distinctive trend—art-themed brunches. These gatherings have transcended mere meals; they serve as a platform for creativity, social interaction, and self-expression. Led by visionary artists such as Ekaterina Molostova and Gemma Gallagher, Dubai's art brunches provide a refreshing alternative to conventional brunch experiences, where patrons not only relish gourmet cuisine but also explore their artistic talents.
Ekaterina, a Russian artist renowned for curating popular art brunches in Dubai, relocated to the city four years ago with the aspiration of becoming a full-time artist. Hailing from a small Russian town, Ekaterina's path to artistry was far from conventional. She pursued a degree in electrical engineering but discovered her true calling while teaching art at a community center in the Netherlands. "Art has always been integral to my life," Ekaterina reflects. "But it wasn't until I moved to Dubai and began private art classes that I realized the depth of my desire for a community of kindred spirits." This epiphany inspired her to create art-themed brunches, fostering connections through creativity.
Gemma Gallagher, an Irish artist and the founder of the acclaimed 'Design & Dine' brunches, shares a similar fervor for uniting people through art. Having moved to Dubai in 2014, Gemma's journey into art education commenced after a successful career as a professional artist in London. "Art was my therapy growing up," she muses. "I aimed to impart that same joy and fulfillment to others, particularly adults who may have lost touch with their creative side."
For many, Dubai's brunch culture epitomizes lavish buffets and opulent dining experiences. However, this new wave of artistic brunches is reshaping the landscape, offering spaces for people to connect and express themselves. When Gemma launched Design & Dine in 2015, her goal was to make attending a painting workshop as commonplace as joining a spin class or yoga studio. By 2024, her vision has materialized. "Today, the UAE boasts a vibrant array of painting workshops, each with its unique twist," she notes. These events have surged in popularity due to their ability to blend socializing with self-expression. "The buzz around art-themed brunches has skyrocketed because of the fun, social, and interactive nature of the events. Word spread rapidly across the UAE that you can enjoy a brunch while learning to paint—regardless of prior experience," Gemma adds.
Both Ekaterina and Gemma emphasize that their events are inclusive, welcoming everyone regardless of artistic proficiency. "About 80 per cent of attendees at my brunches are beginners," Ekaterina mentions. "It's immensely gratifying to witness the spark in their eyes when they realize they can create something beautiful. Some even uncover a new hobby and continue painting at home." Gemma concurs, "Many adults disengage from creating art after childhood. Often, they were discouraged in school or believe they lack creativity. I posit that all humans are innately creative, and with the right guidance and environment, we can rekindle that creativity."
For Gemma, the secret to success lies in crafting an environment that is both enjoyable and approachable. "People often arrive at my events doubtful of their abilities, but they depart amazed by their creations," she says. "Many share how therapeutic the painting process was, and I cherish hearing that some have even made new friends." The soothing impact of art is a significant draw for many attendees. Zeenath Javeria, a 29-year-old from India, found that attending Ekaterina's brunches offered her a therapeutic escape. "Those few hours are like therapy for me, a respite from the stress and anxiety of the week," she adds. The social aspect also plays a crucial role, providing a means to meet new people and forge connections, especially for those new to the city.
Art-themed brunches are more than just about creating art; they are about nurturing connections and building a community. Gemma recounts one of her proudest moments when she hosted a corporate event for Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), where 500 people collaborated on a colossal artwork. "Seeing so many people unite and create something as a team was truly remarkable," she says. This social dimension sets art-themed brunches apart from traditional brunches. As Charlie Lockhart, a British expat, puts it, "The opportunity to create something while savoring good food and company made the experience exceptional for me. It's not just about dining—it's about crafting memories."
For Gemma, the challenge has been ensuring that the events remain accessible and welcoming to all. "I aspired to cultivate a new culture of learning to create art in a social setting," she says. "Visiting galleries and art studios can be intimidating for people, so I envisioned the ideal way to make art accessible would be to integrate it into social settings like hotels and restaurants."
Both Ekaterina and Gemma have achieved remarkable success with their art brunches. Gemma, who initiated 'Design & Dine' in 2016 with just 15 guests, now routinely sells out events with over 100 attendees. Her workshops have expanded to include collaborations with global brands like Nike, Adidas, and Givenchy, bridging art with the corporate and luxury sectors. As these brunches continue to gain traction, both Ekaterina and Gemma are optimistic about the future. Gemma's 'Design & Dine' has expanded internationally, with events now held in the UK, Ireland, and even New York. Meanwhile, Ekaterina is focused on introducing new materials and techniques to her events, ranging from textured art to working with clay.
For both artists, the future of art-themed brunches in the UAE is promising. Whether you're a seasoned artist or someone who hasn't touched a paintbrush since childhood, these brunches offer a chance to reconnect with your creative side in a fun atmosphere. As Ekaterina aptly puts it, "Art is the simplest way to escape your routine. Time seems to halt while you're creating."
