The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), has now announced the selection committee for the forthcoming edition of SIKKA. The artist-led fair of commissioned work from UAE talent will take place from 15 -25 March, 2012, at the historic Al Bastakiya.

The selection committee is chaired by Dubai Culture, and comprises established Emirati creative influencers including artist Ebtisam Abdulaziz; curator and publisher Rami Farook; architect Khalid Al Najjar; Antonia Carver, Fair Director at Art Dubai; and Salem Belyouha, Projects & Events Director at Dubai Culture.

Salem Belyouha said: “SIKKA’s commissioning programme is focused predominantly on a visual art showcase however we have appointed a cross-disciplinary committee due to the distinct advantages such interaction holds. These include intellectual dynamism that will reflect positively in the curatorial stance; the ability to tackle technical barriers and creative challenges; and a broader perspective offered to participating artists.”

The selection committee will not only evaluate the work to be commissioned and showcased at SIKKA, but also lend their knowledge and expertise to the shortlisted artists through special mentoring and critique development sessions that will take place during the fair.

“All members are deeply rooted in the local community and are committed to reviving and re-shaping the UAE’s cultural scene through their role or practice.” Mr. Belyouha added.

The selection committee will meet to single out the winning proposals from the Call for Submissions. Announcements of participating artists will be made shortly after.