Maraya Centre partnering with Art Jameel to support photographers

Maraya Art Centre has joined up with Art Jameel in support of the 6th 'Art Jameel Photography Award' (AJPA). Acting as Art Jameel's UAE partner, Maraya Art Centre will work continuously over the next few months to extensively promote the award. This endeavour will culminate in the centre hosting a two-week exhibition in February 2016, showcasing the works of the AJPA's winning photographers.

Maraya Art Centre Director, Giuseppe Moscatello, said, "We at Maraya are thrilled to be supporting the 6th 'Art Jameel Photography Award'. At the centre, we believe that partnering with regional initiatives and awards is a vital part of engaging the local and regional community and supporting and developing the next generation of our photographers."

Along with hosting the exhibition and promoting the award, Maraya Art Centre will also offer a series of photography workshops for competition entrants. Dubai based photographer and Children's book author, Alia Al Shamsi will lead the first workshop at the centre in September, which will focus on assisting conceptual development from an idea to a completed project. There will also be a second workshop in October, led by esteemed photographer Reem Saeed.

This partnership between Maraya and Art Jameel is in support of the award's drive to discover talented photographers, support them in the development of their practice and, finally, offer a space for the most exceptional work produced to be exhibited.

Speaking on the importance of the award, Art Jameel Programme Manager, Dalya Mousa, said, "The AJPA provides a wonderful opportunity for photographers of all levels to expand their craft and, if selected, to have their work promoted across the media, both regionally and internationally."

The AJPA, which is now open for submissions from anyone over the age of 18 residing in the Gulf region, will close on 31st October 2015. The award will culminate in a lavish ceremony on 10 December 2015, where the winners will be announced.

Being recognised in these awards will be an important step in the development of any artist's career. Along with practical support, the chance to secure a residency and media exposure, winners will be given a cash prize, with the total amount being offered adding up to SR 80,000.

The theme of this year's competition is 'Transitions' and is encouraging participants to examine and reflect on how today's society is changing.