Latifa Saeed, an Emirati artist based in Dubai, has garnered 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 whirlwinds and tornadoes. These installations have immersed visitors in a world crafted with the aid of scientific and engineering expertise.
“Visitors leave with a sense of 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 came naturally to her during her time at Latifa School for Girls in Dubai. “The school had a robust art curriculum, viewing art as a crucial subject throughout the students' academic journey. I believe this was the spark for my artistic career.”
Her recent pieces have been showcased as 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 her works at Kochi’s Durbar Hall Art Gallery in Kerala, India, and at the Biennale Arte 2024 in Venice, Italy. Both venues are renowned for attracting leading artists, collectors, curators, and critics.
“The Venice Biennale is a globally recognized biennale. Abu Dhabi Art has positioned our exhibition on the most significant international cultural platform, which will greatly impact our artistic careers,” she noted. Discussing her participation in the Kochi fair, she highlighted it as a platform for both emerging and established artists, especially from the Global South. “Kochi is a hub for some of the most significant contemporary art in Asia.”
In Kochi, her work titled ‘Notes from Another Shore’, supported by the Rizq Art Initiative, celebrated the UAE-Kerala relationship. “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 underscored the idea that art transcends borders and languages, serving as a universal medium that unites people. I am thankful for the chance to share a piece of Emirati culture with the people of Kerala and engage in meaningful dialogue with the community. Our works resonated deeply in Kerala.”
Latifa emphasized that such international exposure broadened her perspective on her work, viewing it within a global context. “It enhances my understanding of my own nation and culture. This exposure enriches our creativity, boosts our credibility, and inspires us to explore new ideas and innovations while remaining grounded in the values and traditions that define our identity,” she concluded.
