Abu dhabi: Emirati artist and sculptor Mattar bin Lahej and internationally renowned artist and sculptor eL Seed will take part in a session titled 'The Power of Art in Storytelling' at the Arab Youth Media Forum, to be held during the Arab Media Summit 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Summit, organised by the Dubai Press Club, is scheduled to occur from 15th to 17th September at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The session aims to underscore the expanding influence of art in storytelling and its role in conveying human experiences, highlighting its capacity to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers and foster connections between communities.
Mattar bin Lahej, an influential Emirati artist, engages in a multidisciplinary practice that encompasses painting, photography, design, and sculpture. He is recognized for integrating Arabic calligraphy into his art, which delves into themes of identity, culture, and the interplay between tradition and modernity. His notable works, such as the 'Power of Words' sculptures at Qasr Al Watan and the calligraphic fa§ade of Dubai's Museum of the Future, exhibit his commitment to using public art as a medium to engage audiences and initiate dialogue.
eL Seed, a globally acclaimed contemporary artist, merges the visual tradition of Arabic calligraphy with the dynamism of urban art across his paintings, sculptures, and installations. His work employs language as a conduit for bridging diverse people, cultures, and histories, exploring themes of identity, cultural memory, unity, coexistence, and human connection. His projects have been showcased in diverse locations, including the pyramids of Giza, the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, and the Korean DMZ, with his works being part of prominent collections like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Louvre Abu Dhabi.