Interviews
In-depth conversations with the artists, curators and collectors shaping the Gulf's creative scene.
FeaturedDesigning for Wellbeing: In Conversation with Derya Aktan
Derya Aktan, founder of Deline Conceptual, explores how interior architecture, neuroscience and wellbeing shape spaces designed to help people live better.
Sylvia Ong on creating paintings that ask us to slow down
Artist Sylvia Ong reflects on her residency at The Arts Club Dubai, exploring how memory, sound and emotion shape her painting practice through her Inscape series.
Dubai artist creates ‘wearable art’ collection inspired by UAE’s spirit of unity
Dubai artist Dina Sami collaborates with New Balance on a wearable art collection inspired by UAE unity, identity and community.
How Nicky Greig curates spaces inspired by African craftsmanship and design
Nicky Greig shares the inspiration behind Collective Africa and how craftsmanship, art and storytelling shape its layered interiors.
Daniel Chakmin on designing Sobremesa as a space for connection
Inside Souk Al Bahar, Sobremesa by Daniel Chakmin is shaped by desert influences, material precision and a focus on shared dining. The space is designed around atmosphere rather than statement, where food, design and experience meet.
Interview: Dina Saadi on Her DKNY Ramadan Collection
Dubai-based artist Dina Saadi discusses her DKNY Ramadan collection, blending murals, nature, and wearable art.
Meet Maryam Al Falasi, one of the UAE’s youngest art patrons
At just 26, Maryam Al Falasi is reshaping the UAE art scene as founder of Iris Projects. Based in Abu Dhabi, her gallery champions emerging GCC artists through mentorship, representation and community-led collecting.
Soul Kitchen: The artful soul of Business Bay
Tucked away in Business Bay, Soul Kitchen is a rare cultural destination where Latin American and Levantine flavours meet contemporary art, design, and stories of migration.
The power of one line: How Hind Khlaifat is redefining Bedouin art
Jordanian artist Hind Khlaifat has become a defining cultural voice in the Middle East through her powerful one-line drawings. From Petra to Abu Dhabi, her work blends heritage, identity, and emotion into a universal visual language.
Jayesh Veralkar on building Vinyl Souk and collaborating with 25hours Hotel One Central
Vinyl Souk welcomes the New Year at 25hours Hotel One Central with vinyl-led DJ sets, community energy, and a grassroots music experience in Dubai.
INTERVIEW: Liv East brings London soul to Dubai’s Ginger Moon
Round up the crew for soulful vibes! Liv East brings her smooth London energy to Ginger Moon at W Dubai Mina Seyahi this Saturday and next.
Exclusive Interview: Youness Siraj Mounir’s bold new Artist Residency at 25hours Hotel One Central
Moroccan-born artist Yun Kusanagi debuts 4019 – Traces, a bold abstract collection created during his artist residency at 25hours Hotel One Central. Inspired by the hotel's rhythm and Dubai’s cultural energy, the series transforms everyday moments into expressive, layered canvases. Catch the exhibition in the hotel lobby from this month.
Interview with Sara Al Mheiri: Exploring Emirati culture Under the Ghaf Tree
In this exclusive interview, Sara Al Mheiri, author of Under the Ghaf Tree, shares her journey of documenting Emirati culture through real stories, art, and lived experience.
Interior designer Saminah Mahmood on creating spaces that feel like home
Interior designer Saminah Mahmood shares her journey from teaching to transforming homes in the UAE, with expert tips and inspiration.
Exhibition by Dubai’s Educator-Artists at Media One Hotel
Located in the heart of Media City, the lobby of Media One Hotel is currently hosting a free and accessible art exhibition in collaboration with the Dubai Art Teachers Network. Open to the public until Wednesday 2 July, the gallery brings together a group of artists who also work as educators across Dubai, offering a rare glimpse into their personal creative practices outside the classroom. The exhibition is curated by Lilian Mackey and Alex Bolshakova, both working artists and experienced art educators. Their aim is simple: to give teacher-artists a platform to share their work with the wider community, and to show that creativity continues well beyond the school setting.
Dunesi: The Dubai fashion brand uniting effortless chic with ethical design
Ninety-two billion tonnes. This is the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills across the globe every year. For Dubai-based Finnish designer Hanne Ripsaluoma, this was enough reason to make sure that her designs were eco-conscious. She was only 15 years old when she designed her first upcycled denim. Today, Hanne successfully runs her clothing brand called Dunesi in Dubai.
Artist Goloba Charles paints a new life in Dubai
Since moving to Dubai in 2018, Charles has steadily built a name for himself through his vibrant, memory-filled works that reflect the landscapes, flowers, and spirit of his childhood in Uganda. With a deep passion for painting and a drive to grow creatively, he has found a unique space where art and fine dining meet.
FUTURA on street art, his Les Benjamins collab, and Abu Dhabi's creative energy.
Leonard Hilton McGurr, better known as FUTURA is a name that needs little introduction in the world of graffiti and contemporary art. Emerging from the streets of 1970s New York, he was one of the first artists to push graffiti beyond lettering and into abstraction—blurring the lines between street and gallery.
Inside Blumi Home: Founder Nomi Talks Culture and the Creative Journey Behind Her Boutique
Nomi, the founder of Blumi, takes us through the journey of her African-inspired boutique in the vibrant Goshi Warehouse Village in Al Quoz 3, Dubai. What began as a space to showcase African craftsmanship has evolved into a dynamic hub for décor, culture, and community.
Inside Takhayyal: eL Seed Talks Imagination, Calligraphy, and Dubai’s Art Scene
An open-air museum on the streets of Dubai? That’s exactly what Dubai Culture and Tashkeel have brought to life with Takhayyal, a striking new public art installation by renowned French-Tunisian calligraphy artist eL Seed.
Exclusive Interview: 90s R&B Icons Damage on Their Upcoming Dubai Performance
With a career spanning over three decades, Damage continues to bring their signature energy to stages worldwide. Ahead of Rahssan J Bromfield, Jade Jones, Andrez Harriott and Noel Simpson’s much-anticipated Dubai performance, Hayley Alexander at Art in the Middle sat down with the group to talk about their musical evolution, their connection with fans, and what it’s like to reflect on a career that has lasted over 30 years.
15 Minutes with Sara Serpilli: Art meets hospitality at Hotel Indigo Downtown Dubai
Blending art management with hospitality is a rare role in the hotel industry, but for Sara Serpilli, it’s a passion she has turned into a career. With extensive experience in contemporary art galleries and auction houses, she has carved out a unique niche — curating exhibitions that enhance the guest experience at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown.
Exclusive Interview with Singer and Songwriter Blake Winters
For jazz lovers, Blake Winters takes the stage at Q’s Bar & Lounge at Palazzo Versace, Dubai. Known for his soulful voice and remarkable versatility, Blake’s journey is one of authenticity, creativity, and passion. Having collaborated with music titans such as Chris Brown and Sam Smith, he has carved out a unique path in music. In this exclusive interview with Art in the Middle, we explore his creative process, influences, and what audiences can expect from a night with him at Q’s Bar & Lounge.