KT Photos: Neeraj Murali

From a mother-son duo who crafted a 250kg art piece to a sculptor who waited 15 years to showcase his work, the DIFC Art Nights brought together artists from diverse countries and backgrounds. The 18th edition of this highly anticipated event will run every evening from 5pm to 10pm until November 15, featuring interactive paintings, workshops, panel discussions, and various activities for visitors.

Here are some highlights from the event:

Wooden Marvel
This artwork by Mustafa Hamed and Seema Hamed, a mother-son duo, weighs a staggering 250kgs and took a full year to create. Made from a single piece of mahogany wood shipped from the US, the piece is inspired by their favorite place—Bali.

12 Years of Waiting
For sculptor Abdul Rouf Kotekar, the platform marks the end of a 12-year wait to display his creation. His intricate model of a warship, which took months of meticulous work with his wife, can be dismantled into 110 pieces.

Wings of the Future
In celebration of DIFC's 20th anniversary, Emirati artist Dhuha was tasked with imagining the future of the location. She chose to overlay the iconic Gate Building with wings, symbolizing the future. The painting will become an interactive exhibit where visitors can take Instagram-worthy photos.

Of Womanhood
As part of the annual Art Connects Women initiative, a selection of 23 women’s paintings is on display. Syrian painter Seren Al Khalaf contributed a mixed media painting of a fox and horse, using her art to express her feelings about the war in her homeland.

Steely Sculptures
The sculptures by an artist known only as Zeeko are made from stainless steel, adding a vibrant touch to the exhibition. These unique pieces, priced between Dh10,000 and Dh103,000, are available for purchase.

40 Hands
Forty Iranian women collaborated to create a painting depicting Ramadan in Dubai. The artwork, featuring Persian designs and flowers, combines UAE landmarks with calligraphy and Ramadan lights, taking three days to complete.

Interactive Workshops
In addition to the paintings, visitors can participate in interactive workshops. A Sarood designing session allows participants to decorate traditional Emirati handbags, while pottery workshops offer a chance to get creative at the wheel.

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