Latifa Saeed, an Emirati artist based in Dubai, is garnering international attention for her immersive installations that spotlight UAE culture. Her creations have been exhibited in esteemed locations ranging from Kochi to Venice, captivating both art lovers and critics. Her significant installation, ‘Dust Devils’, inspired by the expansive deserts of the UAE, combines a smoke machine, a hologram, and an electromagnetic device to simulate the sensory experience of natural whirlpools and tornadoes. These installations allow visitors to explore a fully immersive environment crafted with the aid of scientific and engineering expertise.
“Visitors leave with a newfound fascination, understanding, and knowledge about the atmospheric phenomena of the Middle Eastern deserts,” Latifa shared with Khaleej Times in anticipation of Emirati Women’s Day. Reflecting on her artistic path, Latifa mentioned that creative expression was nurtured naturally during her time at Latifa School for Girls in Dubai, where art was a pivotal subject throughout the academic curriculum, sparking her artistic career.
Her recent pieces have been part of the ‘Beyond Emerging Artists’ initiative by Abu Dhabi Art, under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). This year, she exhibited at Kochi’s Durbar Hall Art Gallery in Kerala, India, and at the Biennale Arte 2024 in Venice, Italy, both renowned for attracting leading artists, collectors, curators, and critics. “The Venice Biennale is a globally recognized biennale. Abu Dhabi Art showcased our exhibition on the most significant international cultural platform, which will greatly impact our artistic careers,” she remarked.
Discussing her involvement in the Kochi fair, Latifa noted it as a platform for both emerging and established artists, especially from the Global South. “Kochi is a hub for significant contemporary art in Asia.” At Kochi, her work ‘Notes from Another Shore’, supported by the Rizq Art Initiative, celebrated the UAE-Kerala connection. “This relationship adds new dimensions to the cultural landscapes of both regions,” she stated, emphasizing that participating in the Kochi fair was a “profound experience”.
“It underscores the idea that art is a universal medium that bridges borders and languages, uniting people. I am thankful for the chance to introduce a piece of Emirati culture to the people of Kerala and engage in meaningful conversations with the community. Our works resonated deeply in Kerala.” Latifa emphasized that such global exposure broadens her perspective on her work and situates it within a worldwide context.
“It enhances my understanding of my own nation and culture. This exposure enriches our creativity, boosts our credibility, and motivates us to pursue new ideas and innovations while remaining grounded in the values and traditions that define our identity,” she concluded.
