The Assembly is a yearly talent development programme designed to support young artistic leadership in the UAE. Each year, eight creatives aged 18-24 are selected via a nomination, committee and interview process. The programme includes peer-to-peer information exchange along the development of collaborative projects. It focusses on curatorial practices as a learning exercise, responding to ongoing discourse while accessing Art Jameel’s network and opportunities.

The platform’s multidisciplinary cohort of UAE-based practising artists, researchers, curators and emerging entrepreneurs collaborate through monthly/fortnightly sessions to discuss topics of ongoing relevance; gain knowledge-based skills; visit and unpack exhibitions on view; brainstorm public programmes; and connect with artists, curators and other cultural leaders. At the Jameel, available tools for learning and research include Jameel Library and Art Jameel Collection as well as a robust calendar of events for continuous involvement of youth voices.

The Assembly programme culminates with the Youth Takeover, incubated through the Spring and presented annually in May: this full-fledged exhibition and public programmes project takes over the Jameel with a series of artwork commissions, workshops, talks, tours and roundtable discussions. The participating cohort leads the Youth Takeover, with guidance from Art Jameel curators, in conceptual research, exhibition design, artwork label writing, and the multiple efforts that bring the immersive project to fruition.

The fourth cohort of the Assembly runs from September 2022 to May 2023. The monthly sessions and Youth Takeover take place at Jameel Arts Centre in Jaddaf Waterfront, Dubai.

To learn more about The Assembly contact [email protected]