Call for entries to cultural awards

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is inviting submissions for the first Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts Awards 2010.

The award is the first of its kind initiative in the Arab World, announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in March last year. It honours patrons of the arts from the region. Entries are open to individuals and organisations who have made financial or in kind contributions through sustained support to visual arts, performing arts, literature and film during 2007 to 2009.

Mishaal Al Gergawi, Project and Events Manager from the authority said: "Patronage is the catalyst that drives the growth of the arts. Art continues to thrive under the generous support of like-minded people, who understand and appreciate the importance of providing a sounding board for creative individuals to flourish."

Awards will be conferred in four categories: Distinguished Patrons of the Arts, Patrons of the Arts, Supporters of the Arts, and Friends of the Arts. Application forms are available at dubaiculture.ae/paa.

The inaugural awards will be presented in March 2010 at Art Dubai 2010, the city's annual art fair.

Gergawi said the role patrons play in the development of the arts is not only paramount to the development of the cultural scene, but is also a sign of social awareness of an integrated civil society where members of the community support, communicate and react to creative thought. "This is what the city Dubai aims to be and this is why patrons are crucial for us all," he said.

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