Dubai Calligraphy Biennale

Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) presented the inaugural edition of Dubai Calligraphy Biennale (DCB) in October 2023 with the participation of creatives and calligraphers worldwide, with the aim of promoting creative cultural dialogues, keeping calligraphic artwork at the forefront of Arab world output and providing a platform for the best of the discipline. Throughout the biennale, the Authority launched city-wide activities, including 150+ workshops, 25+ talks and 19 exhibitions across 35+ cultural locations, libraries, art galleries, and other partner and stakeholder venues to enable access for different communities and audiences.

To elevate the calligraphy landscape in Dubai, the biennale showcased art from a 8+ languages and cultures. The event was comprised of art and design exhibitions, supplemented with dynamic activations, including public art installations. The programming will also encompass workshops, talks, masterclasses, and panel discussions, encouraging a vibrant and educational atmosphere.

Date: 1 – 31 October 2023

Dubai Calligraphy Biennale: A city-wide event celebrating the harmony, grace, and beauty of calligraphy, that included the 11^th edition of the Dubai International Arabic Calligraphy Exhibition, in addition to aligned exhibitions and components activated during the biennale across several locations, among them are Dubai Culture’s assets, namely Etihad Museum, Al Shindagha Museum, Etihad Museum, Al Safa Art and Design Library, and the Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children.

Focus: The Biennale brought forth exciting developments, including the incorporation of new languages and components. Key highlights of this inaugural event include:

• 19 exhibitions
• Activation of 35+ locations in Dubai.
• Introduction of 8+ new calligraphic languages, enriching cultural diversity and dialogue.
• Support for more than 200 local and international artists.
• Launch of captivating calligraphy-themed public art pieces.