Do we need an international brand to elevate our Art Game? This On/Off The Record will discuss this question featuring:

Antonia Carver, Director of Art Jameel

‍Antonia leads Art Jameel’s teams in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, overseeing its strategy, collections, and arts and learning programmes at Jameel Arts Centre in Dubai, Hayy Jameel in Jeddah, and internationally. A writer and curator, she most recently curated the National Pavilion of Saudi Arabia at the 61st Venice Biennale. Previously, she was Director of Art Dubai (2010–2016), Projects Director at Bidoun, and part of the founding team of the Dubai International Film Festival.

Vilma Jurkute, Independent Researcher, Advisor, and Cultural strategist

‍Vilma has two decades of experience shaping creative communities and cultural ecosystems across New York, Chicago, London, and Dubai. During her 14 years at Alserkal, she helped build its vision and cultural framework, led the $20 million expansion of Alserkal Avenue into a 500,000 sq. ft. cultural destination, developed Alserkal Advisory’s income streams, and supported regional talent through the Alserkal Arts Foundation.

Munira Al Sayegh, Independent Curator and Cultural Instigator 

Munira Al Sayegh is an Abu Dhabi-based curator, author, and founder of Dirwaza Curatorial Lab, a curatorial incubator and cultural advisory. Her work champions grassroots initiatives and the reclamation of Gulf narratives. She has collaborated with Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, curated the Talks Programme at Abu Dhabi Art, and led initiatives for Art Dubai, including its Residents section and the Now series. Her projects span the UAE and internationally, with exhibitions and public art programmes at institutions including 421, NYU Abu Dhabi, the Middle East Institute, Tabari Art Space, and Manar Abu Dhabi.

Moderated by Bader AlSaad

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