el Seed Creates A New Vision for Public Art in Dubai

Dubai Culture, in partnership with Tashkeel, has unveiled a landmark public art installation, ‘Takhayyal,’ created by internationally renowned Franco-Tunisian artist eL Seed. This striking site-specific sculpture is the latest addition to the Dubai Public Art initiative to make art accessible to all.

‘Takhayyal,’ which means “imagine” in Arabic, is more than just a sculpture—it is an invitation to explore, dream, and embrace the power of creativity. Inspired by the phrase, “Imagine something you have never done before,” the artwork blends Arabic calligraphy with contemporary aesthetics, reinforcing the connection between heritage, creativity, and community engagement. Through this fusion, eL Seed challenges audiences to rethink artistic expression and its role in shaping cultural identity.

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is dedicated to enriching Dubai’s cultural scene by fostering creativity and preserving heritage. The Authority manages key cultural assets, including museums, heritage sites, and public libraries, while spearheading initiatives that position Dubai as a global center for arts and culture.

Tashkeel, established in 2008 by Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is a leading UAE-based visual arts and design incubator. It provides artists and designers with production facilities, mentorship, and commercial services, supporting creative innovation through residencies, exhibitions, and educational programs.

Dubai’s Cultural Vision

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, emphasised the significance of this installation, stating, “The Public Art Strategy plays a crucial role in shaping Dubai’s artistic identity, fostering a dynamic cultural environment while supporting the creative economy. ‘Takhayyal’ is a vital addition to our public art landscape, reaffirming our commitment to empowering artists, encouraging self-expression, and presenting art that resonates with a diverse audience.”

Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Founder and Executive Director of Tashkeel, highlighted the deeper meaning behind ‘Takhayyal,’ noting, “‘Takhayyal’ is the starting point for every artist’s journey—where imagination knows no boundaries. At Tashkeel, our mission is to explore new creative possibilities and provide artists with the space and resources to bring their visions to life. eL Seed’s journey with us began in 2013, when he first experimented with his now-signature pink hue in our studio. With this installation in Nad Al Sheba, we celebrate the limitless potential of artistic imagination.”

A Full-Circle Moment for eL Seed

For eL Seed, ‘Takhayyal’ represents a personal and artistic milestone. Reflecting on the significance of this installation, he shared, “This piece embodies the spirit of Tashkeel—an invitation to dream, push boundaries, and create beyond the ordinary. When Sheikha Lateefa first invited me for a residency in 2013, she challenged me with the words, ‘Imagine something you have never done before.’ That phrase inspired my first sculpture and led to my debut solo exhibition, ‘Declaration,’ where I introduced my signature pink (219C). Twelve years later, ‘Takhayyal’ marks the completion of that journey, paying tribute to Tashkeel, Sheikha Lateefa’s vision, and the endless power of imagination.”

eL Seed has been a long-time collaborator with Tashkeel, beginning as an artist-in-residence in 2013. Since then, his career has flourished, with his work featured in some of the world’s most iconic locations, including the Arab World Institute in Paris, the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea, and Cairo’s Zabaleen district. His art merges philosophy, storytelling, and Arabic calligraphy to convey universal messages of unity and peace, reinforcing the role of art as a bridge between cultures.

Bringing Public Art to the Forefront

‘Takhayyal’ is a key milestone in Dubai’s efforts to promote cultural dialogue through art. The Dubai Public Art initiative, spearheaded by Dubai Culture, seeks to integrate public art into the city’s urban fabric, making it a vibrant hub for creativity. By commissioning works that engage the public and reflect Dubai’s evolving artistic landscape, the initiative is redefining how art interacts with everyday life.

As Dubai continues to position itself as a global cultural powerhouse, ‘Takhayyal’ stands as a testament to the city’s dedication to fostering artistic innovation and cross-cultural dialogue.