Earlier this month, Art Jameel launched a Dh550,000 grant programme called the Art Jameel Research and Practice Platform to provide micro-funds to artists, writers and curators in the Mena region.

The initiative from the Saudi Arabian foundation, which runs Jameel Art Centre in Dubai, was created for practitioners whose projects have been affected by the cancellation of art exhibitions, art fairs and cultural events amid the coronavirus pandemic.

It’s affirming to see such incredible diversity and quality of projects being produced by individual artists, curators, writers and others, often against all the odds

Antonia Carver

Now, Dubai Culture has announced its support of the platform through a UAE version, aimed at artists, creatives and collectives (of up to five people) living and working in the Emirates. Awarded applicants will receive micro-grants ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 (Dh3,600 to Dh11,000) to help them start or continue work. Up to 20 practitioners will be supported, depending on the submissions.

Globally and regionally, the arts and culture industry continues to be vulnerable in the wake of the pandemic. Dubai Culture’s collaboration with Art Jameel marks the first government-associated grant in the UAE specifically targeted towards artists and cultural practitioners during the Covid-19 crisis.

Read the full article in its original location here.