Antonia Carver

“So, I’m Antonia Carver and I’m Director of Art Jameel, and we’re at the Jameel Arts Center in Dubai at the moment which is our first flagship museum.

In 2015, I had the chance to meet with Fady Jameel and, I was absolutely blown away by this vision he had, for the arts being for everyone, that the arts are for all, and there’s no area of society the arts can’t touch.  But at the same time you can build an institution and an organization that is one of absolute excellence – so to be something that was world class here in the Middle East but touching everyone.

And you know Fady Jameel is also absolutely passionate about the ways in which the arts can reach children and giving children – and I  mean many in this region –  for the first time, access to contemporary art, and contemporary art that reflects where they come from.

So, I joined Art Jameel in 2016, and it was just, an absolute dream job to be in, because not only do I have incredible colleagues and amazing team, and work for this family and alongside the corporate business, but we’re also able to work with this network of artists, curators, youth, incredible audiences.  And just to see the difference that can be made through the arts is absolutely inspiring, day on day.

Well this is obviously an incredible moment, I mean really not only for Abdul Latif Jameel, but for the history of the region as well.  It’s obviously 75 years of business, but also 75 years of philanthropy which is, as you know, an incredible kind of legacy to leave for this region  – and the world really.   So, I’m absolutely thrilled to play a small role and be able to be a part of this incredible movement.”