Dubai Event Management Corporation (DEMC), which seeks to position the emirate as a unique cultural hub on the regional and international level, today announced the weekly Souq Al Bastakiya has partnered with thejamjar, an arts organization, to offer an exceptional outdoor art and culture learning experience through weekly knowledge-based workshops.

To be organized concurrently with the activities of the weekly street market from January 2009 as part of Al Bastakiya’s community programme, trained professionals and artists will host the workshops targeting all age groups from six years and above. Set in a courtyard, some categories covering art forms and techniques will be exclusively designated for adults and parents while some sessions will focus on cartoon drawing, clay masks making, and mural art and others.

Mustafa Al Hashimi, Project Director of Al Bastakiya, said: “The workshops are part of Souq Al Bastakiya’s community programme that seeks to enhance the experience of visitors through workshops, performance and knowledge exchange. The partnership with thejamjar reflects our keenness to optimally involve the visitors in art and cultural activities.”

thejamjar offers the unique urban DIY painting studio and art gallery, where individuals and groups can indulge in a unique art experience while creatively expressing themselves with unlimited acrylic paint on canvas, regardless of age, experience or profession.

Hetal Pawani, Director of thejamjar, said: “We are proud to partner with Souq Al Bastakiya as we believe we have a common mandate to offer visitors a comprehensive and hands-on knowledge-filled experience. The workshops will be open for all and will provide fresh insight into the world of art and culture.

“No pre-registration is required for these introductory workshops as seats will be allotted on a first-come first-served basis. We are confident the ambience of the weekly market will encourage visitors to participate in our fun-laced creative programmes in larger numbers.”
Further information on the programme is available at 04-3217114/ 04-3417303 or www.souqalbastakiya.com.

Launched on 20 December, 2008, Souq Al Bastakiya is open every Saturday from 10.00am until sunset featuring more than 50 vendors, musical performances and activities throughout the day. Local culture is well represented with henna stands, Arabic inspired coffee shops and authentic ethnic cuisine, offering residents and tourists a true regional experience. The weekly street market aims to give visitors an opportunity to discover the heritage and richness of old Dubai.

Al Bastakiya aims to emerge as a cultural destination, featuring a specialized arts and cultural centre to host events, festivals and activities.