Dubai artist commissioned to make installations at Etihad Museum

Wissam Shawkat's calligraphic installations are now in place at the Etihad Museum in Dubai. Courtesy Etihad Museum

Five new calligraphic installations are now in place at the Etihad Museum in Dubai. They are by artist Wissam Shawkat, an artist, master calligrapher and graphic designer who has rewritten the opening quotes of the UAE Constitution in bronze. Bringing the Founding Fathers‚ words and devotion to life, and displaying the solid foundations of the nation for all to see, the installation reads:

“We, [the Rulers of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al Qawain, Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah] it is our desire and the desire of the people of our Emirates to establish a union between these Emirates, to promote a better life, more enduring stability and a higher international status for the Emirates and their people.”

The installation reflects the purpose of the museum, which is to enrich the public’s understanding of the 1971 Agreement, tell the story of the birth of the UAE, and preserve and celebrate Emirati heritage. The installations invite visitors to share in the nation’s rich history and also strengthen pride in the Arabic language.

Shawkat is an important artist as he has the ability to cherish and maintain all the traditions and rules of Arabic calligraphy yet bring it into the modern era.