Day 3 Programme: Creative Careers Days “Form = Function = Form = Function = Form”

CREATIVE CAREERS DAYS FRIDAY PROGRAMME

Join us for the third edition of Creative Careers Days, Form = Function = Form = Function = Form, where you’ll explore diverse design careers and the ways in which the arts intersect with design, architecture, fashion, graphics, interiors and more. Meet industry experts eager to connect with next-generation talent and the curious across 30+ booths representing the UAE’s leading creative institutions and universities.

Get ready for expert career advice, one-on-one sessions to help develop your portfolio, hands-on workshops, engaging talks, and interactive roundtable discussions. Don’t forget to bring your CV, portfolio, and creative mindset!

Creative Careers Days is supported by the Ministry of Culture, UAE.

The event features the participation of:

Ministry of Culture UAE, Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, Sharjah Museums Authority

Abu Dhabi Art, Abu Dhabi Music and Art Foundation, Abdul Latif Jameel, Aiden, American University of Dubai, American University of Sharjah, Bayt Al Mamzar, Dirwaza Curatorial Lab, Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, Emirates Literature Foundation, Fujifilm, Gulf Photo Plus, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, ICD Brookfield, Istituto Marangoni, Ivy Advisory, Louvre Abu Dhabi, M_39, Manarat Al Saadiyat Art Studio, Middlesex University, Möbius Design Studio, National Pavilion – La Biennale di Venezia, New York University, NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery, Sharjah Performing Arts Academy, Tashkeel, The Arts Centre at NYU Abu Dhabi, The Institute for Emerging Art, Zayed University, 421 Arts Campus, 1971 Design Space and many more!

All sessions are free. 

LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS

Lobby
All Day CAREER SURGERY | One-to-One Sessions Led by Jolaine Frizzell (Director, Ivy Advisory)

The “Career Surgery” station offers one-on-one sessions with arts and culture specialists invited by Art Jameel for Creative Careers Days. Visit the station for personalised career advice and receive a tailored guide to your journey through the booths, matching you with industry experts and providing opportunities to check out both at Creative Careers Days and beyond! Open to all: First-come-first-serve   

Lobby  All Day THE INSTITUTE FOR EMERGING ART INSTAGRAM SURGERY| One-to-One Sessions, Led by Morvarid Ranjbar (Marketing & Communications Associate, The Institute for Emerging Art)

“The Institute for Emerging Art’s Instagram Surgery” offers artists the opportunity to meet with one of the Institute’s team members for a personalised, one-on-one session to review your Instagram profile! Receive expert guidance on how you can maximise your artistic presence. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Lobby 10:30am-5:45pm SPEEDY MOCK INTERVIEWSOne-to-One Sessions,

10:30-11:30am
National Pavilion UAE – La Biennale di Venezia (Venice Internships)
11:45-12:45pm
American University of Sharjah (Education)
1:00-2:00pm
Dirwaza Curatorial Lab (Curation)
2:15-3:15pm
421 Arts Campus (Student Internship Program, Exhibition Guide, and Graduate Internship Program)
3:30-4:30pm
Abu Dhabi Music and Art Foundation (Visual Arts Department, Internships)
4:45-5:45pm
Department of Culture and Tourism, MAS Art Studio (Artists, Educators, Teaching Artists)

Experience an opportunity to participate in swift interviews that could lead you to volunteer, intern or work in leading arts organisations based in the UAE. Engage in these rapid-fire conversations with industry experts and gain invaluable practice in showcasing your abilities and skills. These mock interviews are conducted by hiring experts, giving you the chance to practice and build connections within the creative sector. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Jameel Library 10:30am-5:30pm PORTFOLIO REVEIEWS | One-to-One Sessions

10:30-11:30am
Gulf Photo Plus (Photography)
11:30-12:30pm  
1971 – Design Space (Art and Design)
12:30-1:30pm
New York University Abu Dhabi (MFA in Art and Media)
1:30-2:30pm
Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (Applications)
2:30-3:30pm
Dirwaza Curatorial Lab (Art and Design)
3:30-4:30pm
American University of Sharjah (Applications)
4:30-5:30pm
Fujifilm (Photography)

In these one-to-one mentoring sessions located at Jameel Library, students receive feedback from industry experts from leading arts organisations on developing their portfolios for residencies, university programs and professional opportunities. These experts mentor students to hone their skills and offer invaluable critique and guidance. Be sure to bring along your portfolios! Limited Capacity: Register here

Jameel Library 10:30am-5:30pm  CV REVIEWS | One-to-One Sessions

10:30-11:30am
National Pavilion UAE – La Biennale di Venezia (Internships)
11:30-12:30pm
Abu Dhabi Music and Art Foundation (Visual Arts)
12:30-1:30pm
Dirwaza Curatoiral Lab (Curation)
1:30-2:30pm
M_39 (Creatives)
2:30-3:30pm
Bayt Al Mamzar (Creatives)
3:30-4:30pm
American University of Dubai (Education)
4:30-5:30pm
American University of Sharjah (Education)

In these one-to-one mentoring sessions located at Jameel Library, visitors receive feedback from industry experts from leading arts organisations on developing and perfecting their resumes. These invaluable sessions offer the unique opportunity to help get CV noticed through structure and format as well as highlighting key employability skills. Limited Capacity: Register here

TOUR WITH THE EXPERTS
Welcome Desk 10:30am-11:15am & 2:30pm-3:15pm & 4:00pm-4:45pm EXHIBITION WALKING TOUR |Art Jameel Team

10:30-11:15am
Art Jameel Team: Dina Al Khatib (Graphic Designer), Brent Galotera (Senior Manager, Operation and IT), Daniya Jawwad (Collections Research Assistant)
2:30-3:15pm
Art Jameel Team: Murad El Zagal
(Senior Manager, Strategy and Audiences), Naseef Ismail (Logistics and Administration Coordinator), Giacomo Pietro Lamborizio (Exhibitions Manager)
4:00-4:45pm
Art Jameel Team: Zahra Mansoor (Design and Production Coordinator), Abhirami Suresh (Library and Youth Coordinator), Lama Mosallem (Social Media Specialist)

Join our behind-the-scenes walking panel tour of the museum, led by the Art Jameel team. Learn how an exhibition comes together from various perspectives and discover the roles of various contributors involved in exhibition production, from artists and curators to designers including graphics and scenography to AV and tech. This session covers the development of a show from inception to fruition, with insights into design and production. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Welcome Desk 12:00am -12:45pm BEHIND-THE-SCENES COLLECTION TOUR | Hosted by Art Jameel, Led by Rhoda Azizoghly (Registrar)

Join our behind-the-scenes tour of the museum with a twist! This session features Rhoda Azizoghly, Registrar, taking participants backstage to view Art Jameel’s private collection room, focussing on the conservation of artworks. Learn about the specific roles of the institution and in these custom-made tours led by various members of the Art Jameel team. Limited Capacity: First-come-first-serve

CREATE WITH THE EXPERTS 
Art Jameel Booth All Day COLLECTIVE PORTRAIT AT THE ART JAMEEL BOOTH | Drop In Station Hosted by Art Jameel Led by Rashid Almehiri (Artist)

Join a fun and introspective collage activityand  contribute to a collective portrait mural that evolves over the course of the fair. In this interactive experience, you’ll choose words that reflect your dreams or personality, then narrow them down to the five that resonate most. Next, select images that align with those words and design a unique collage. Feel free to take your individual creation home at the end of the fair. Be sure not to miss this engaging participatory art activation! Open to all

Sahaab 10:30am-11:30am

CRAFTING COMPELLING PORTFOLIOS FOR CREATIVE CAREERS | Workshop Hosted by American University of Sharjah, led by Dr. Zinka Bejtic (Professor, Head of Department of Art and Design)

In this hands-on workshop, participants learn how to create a portfolio that reflects artistic vision and effectively showcases skills. Led by industry experts, this session guides students through the key elements of a successful creative portfolio. Participants must bring their portfolios for a personalised feedback session, where they’ll receive constructive advice on enhancing their work and making it stand out in a competitive market. Whether you are a graphic designer, artist, animator, or filmmaker, this workshop helps refine your portfolio and present your best work to potential employers or clients. Limited Capacity: Register here

Sahaab 11:45am-12:45pm

FROM HANDWRITING TO TYPOGRAPHY: THE ANATOMY OF LETTERS | Workshop Hosted by Dubai

Culture and Arts Authority, led by Antoine Najib Abi Aad (Professor, Zayed University) Explore the evolution from handwriting to typography by drawing parallels between the anatomy of type and the human body. Through interactive activities and discussions, participants will learn how their handwriting can inspire type design and understand key typographic concepts like the baseline, x-height, and kerning. Limited Capacity: Register here

Sahaab 1:00pm-2:00 pm

INTRO TO INTERIOR DESIGN WORKSHOP | Workshop  Hosted by Istituto Marangoni, led by Dr. Paolo Caratelli (Interior Design Programme Leader,  Istituto Marangoni)

Discover the fundamentals of interior design, space planning, material science, and environmental design principles. Participate in engaging, hands-on activities designed to explore your creativity and inspire your approach to designing spaces. Limited Capacity: Register here

Sahaab 2:15pm-3:15pm

THINKING DESIGN: A MINI WORKSHOP | Workshop Hosted by American University of Sharjah, led by Naz Naddaf (Graphic Designer and Assistant Professor)

This dynamic hands-on workshop teaches participants how to apply design thinking processes to tackle real-world problems. Participants are presented with a challenge that prompts them to think like designers and engage their empathetic selves, considering the needs and perspectives of those affected by the problem. They then brainstorm creative ideas using a variety of tools and techniques and create quick and tangible representations of concepts to share with the world. Limited Capacity: Register here

Sahaab 3:30pm-4:30pm

ARIDLY ABUNDANT: MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGIES IN DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE | Workshop  Hosted by National Pavilion UAE – La Biennale di Venezia, led by Basil Al Taher (UX Designer)

This workshop is an immersive exploration of the digital technologies used in the Aridly Abundant exhibition, which reimagines arid landscapes as spaces of abundance. Participants delve into the use of 3D scanning and 3D printing technologies to study and replicate the architectural tactics found in the arid environments of the UAE, particularly around the Al Hajar Mountains. The workshop begins with a live demonstration of basic 3D scanning using smartphones and a showcase of more advanced scanning techniques. These techniques were crucial in documenting and translating the stone assemblies exhibited in Aridly Abundant, highlighting sustainable building practices rooted in the region’s cultural and material heritage. Participants also have the opportunity to interact with 3D-printed models of these assemblies, gaining a deeper understanding of how digital tools can bridge traditional practices with contemporary architectural design. Limited Capacity: Register here

Sahaab 4:45pm-5:45pm

MASTERING INTERVIEW SKILLS FOR CREATIVE CAREERS | Workshop Hosted by American University of Sharjah, led by Dr. Zinka Bejtic (Professor, Head of Department of Art and Design)

This workshop is designed to help participants excel in interviews within the creative industry. Learn how to articulate your creative process, communicate your skills confidently, and make a lasting impression on potential employers. The session includes practical exercises and mock interviews, allowing you to practice in a supportive environment and receive feedback from industry professionals. Whether preparing for your first interview or looking to polish your technique, this workshop will equip you with the skills to succeed in interviews for creative roles. Limited Capacity: Register here

MEET WITH THE EXPERTS
Zone 4  10:30am-11:15am & 11:30am-12:15pm WHAT YOUR ORGANISATION LOOKS FOR WHEN HIRING | Roundtable

10:30-11:15am Art Jameel
11:30-12:15pm 1971 – Design Space

Join us for an insightful discussion where organisations delve into the key attributes that make candidates stand out during the hiring process. Find out why adaptability, teamwork, innovation, and a strong work ethic are incredibly valued. Learn from experienced HR professionals about the traits and skills they seek, and gain valuable tips on showcasing these attributes in your applications and interviews. Whether you’re a job seeker or looking to understand what top organisations prioritise, this open discussion provides visitors with the guidance you need to succeed in the competitive, creative job market. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Zone 4 12:30pm-1:15pm THE BUSINESS OF BEING A CREATIVE | Talk Hosted by Gulf Photo Plus Featuring Kathleen Pearl Hoare (Photographer)

A seminar for wannabe freelancers on navigating the logistics of being your own business owner as a creative in the UAE. From finding your niche to building a client base and managing your time effectively, this seminar equips you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the dynamic world of freelancing. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Zone 4 2:30pm-3:15pm BENEFITS OF PURSUING A MFA IN THE UAE | Roundtable Hosted by New York University Abu Dhabi Featuring Karl Kalinkewicz (Head of Graduate Recruitment, New York University Abu Dhabi)

Presented by NYUAD faculty delivering the new MFA programme, this talk introduces its ethos and interdisciplinary approach to contemporary art education. The presentation features the uniqueness of studying at NYUAD and the resources and facilities available to students. Students will gain valuable insights as current MFA students and alumni share their personal journeys, discussing the challenges and successes they’ve encountered throughout their academic and professional experiences. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Zone 4 4:15pm-5:00pm 

BEHIND THE SCENES: NAVIGATING THE ROLES OF COLLECTION MANAGERS AND REGISTRARS | Roundtable  Hosted by Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Featuring Jo-Fan Huang (Senior Conservator, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi) Astred Roche, (Senior Registrar, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi)

Join an engaging roundtable discussion led by esteemed conservator Jo-Fan Huang and expert registrar Astred Roche where both facilitators share their invaluable expertise in the art world. Discover the tools and techniques used in conservation and registration as Jo-Fan and Astred present examples from their day-to-day work. This session highlights the diverse career pathways within the art and museum fields, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of its complexities. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

HEAR FROM THE EXPERTS 
Project Space 11:00am-11:45am

COLLABORATIVE CURATION WITH THE TEAM OF DIRWAZA CURATORIAL LAB | Talk Hosted by Dirwaza Curatorial Lab Featuring Hessa Al Nuaimi, Munira Al Sayegh, Dania Al Tamimi

Learn about curation and dive into the inner world of Dirwaza Curatorial Lab. Through lively conversations with our team members, visitors gain valuable insights into the role of a curator both publicly and privately, explore internship opportunities, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at the lab’s day-to-day operations. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Project Space 12:00pm – 12:45pm

BEYOND QUALIFICATIONS: HOW TO STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD? | Talk Hosted by M_39 Featuring Lisa Ball-Lechgar , Noor Al Fahim, Finn Murray-Jone

Join an inspiring talk hosted by M_39 featuring the M_39 team. Discover firsthand accounts from three creative professionals who paved their career paths through self-driven projects. Learn how these initiatives helped them stand out and take their first steps on the career ladder. Engage in a Q&A session to gain valuable insights and tips on making an impact beyond traditional qualifications. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Project Space 1:00pm – 1:45 pm PLACEMAKING: ART IN THE PUBLIC REALM | Talk Hosted by ICD Brookfield Place Featuring Ill Sam Park (Partner, Foster & Partners), Malak Abu Qaoud (Director, Arts & Event, ICD Brookfield Place)

This engaging discussion will delve into the transformative power of public art in redefining urban spaces. With a focus on community engagement and innovative programming, the talk will explore how thoughtfully designed public spaces can forge stronger communities, spark connections, and elevate the cultural vibrancy of our cities. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Project Space 2:00pm – 3:00pm

ART JAMEEL’S YOUTH ASSEMBLY | Talk Featuring Abhirami Suresh (Library and Youth Coordinator, Art Jameel; Curator of The Assembly), Nabeeha Sajjad (Communications Assistant, Art Jameel; Assembly Peer Curator 24/25)

Discover Art Jameel’s Youth Assembly Programme, a dynamic platform supporting young artistic leadership in the UAE that is dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, and professional growth. In this informative session, the programme curators will explore the unique offerings and experiences provided by the programme, including learning opportunities, exhibition tours, workshops and more. The talk will also delve into the journey and insights of the Assembly curators over the past two cycles. This talk is recommended for emerging creatives and prospective members eager to learn how the Assembly Programme can help them achieve their artistic and professional goals, and the potential to contribute to the UAE’s cultural landscape. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Project Space 2:00pm – 3:00pm

ART JAMEEL’S YOUTH ASSEMBLY | Talk Featuring Abhirami Suresh (Library and Youth Coordinator, Art Jameel; Curator of The Assembly), Nabeeha Sajjad (Communications Assistant, Art Jameel; Assembly Peer Curator 24/25)

Discover Art Jameel’s Youth Assembly Programme, a dynamic platform supporting young artistic leadership in the UAE that is dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, and professional growth. In this informative session, the programme curators will explore the unique offerings and experiences provided by the programme, including learning opportunities, exhibition tours, workshops and more. The talk will also delve into the journey and insights of the Assembly curators over the past two cycles. This talk is recommended for emerging creatives and prospective members eager to learn how the Assembly Programme can help them achieve their artistic and professional goals, and the potential to contribute to the UAE’s cultural landscape. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Project Space 3:15pm – 4:00pm

TALK ON AI & THE FUTURE OF CREATIVE CAREERS | Talk Hosted by AIDEN, Featuring Tannya Jajal (Founder and CEO, AIDEN)

Explore how AI is transforming creative careers in art, music, and design. This talk exposes  how designers, artists, and creators are using AI tools to push boundaries. Discover practical ways to start using AI in your own projects and see inspiring examples of AI-driven creativity. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, designer, or musician, learn how to dive into AI-powered creativity and tackle the big question: Can machines be creative? Key takeaways include how AI is reshaping the creative landscape and how you can get started today. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Project Space 4:15pm – 5:00pm

PRODUCT DESIGN: FROM CONCEPT TO MARKET | Talk Hosted by Tashkeel, Featuring Kevin Badni (Programme Mentor and Dean of College of Arts and Creative Enterprises, Zayed University), Salim Ahmed (Design Projects Supervisor, Tashkeel)

Join the Tanween design programme alumni by Tashkeel, who will reflect on their journey of developing UAE-made high-end limited products. What it takes to conceptualise, design, develop and manufacture bespoke. How to overcome challenges at each stage by developing tools to optimise design efficiency. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

Project Space 5:15pm – 6:00pm

THINGS YOU WILL FIGURE OUT THE HARD WAY… UNLESS | Talk Hosted by Ivy Advisory, Featuring Shama Nair, (Photographer, Writer, and Curator) Rabila Kidwai (Graphic Designer)


The art world can appear quite intimidating and starting out can be a humbling experience. This session is a one-on-one conversation about all the ways to dedicate time and space to making art and pursuing your creative endeavours, even when no one is looking. With a focus on intersection of disciplines, explore how design and writing both inform and support artistic practice. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

 

ENTERTAINMENT 
  Zone 3    Garden All Day

SMILE FOR SUCCESS | Photo Booth  Hosted by Fujifilm Middle East

Enhance your professional presence at Creative Careers Days with a standout LinkedIn portrait courtesy of Fujifilm’s photo booth. Get a free, high-quality business photo and expert tips on creating a compelling LinkedIn profile. A strong online presence is key in today’s job market—make a lasting impression with a portrait that reflects your best self. Perfect for students entering the job market or anyone refreshing their professional image. Be sure not to miss this opportunity! Open to all

 

Adjacent to Art Jameel Shop                              

All Day MUSEUM EXPRESS | Bus Tour Hosted by Sharjah Museums Authority

Sharjah Museums arrive at Jameel Arts Centre via a dedicated touring bus and parked outdoors adjacent to Art Jameel Shop. Join the “Museums Express” bus for an engaging and insightful journey through time and heritage. Explore specially curated exhibition featuring replica objects from Sharjah’s museums. Discover ancient astronomy, delve into history with a model compass, and appreciate a 7,000-year-old pearl necklace as well as artworks by artists Jamil Hammoudi and Dr. Najat Makki that provokes creative thinking and discover history. Open to all

 

Lobby            

Surprise

FLASH MOB: THE SONG OF THE BODY |Performance Hosted by Sharjah Performing Arts Academy Featuring Thalia Valtierra (Dance Tutor, Sharjah Performing Arts Academy), 10 Dancers (TBC)

Life is in constant motion. When movement is not enough, we dance, and when speaking is not enough, we sing. Open to all

Chihuah-uan Garden 5:00pm-6:00pm VOICES OF TOMORROW: POETRY & MUSIC | Open Mic Performance Featuring Dania Al Jabi, Jennah Fakhouri, Eve Levhart, RIRI and Job Shaji

Join us to support and celebrate the future voices of creativity as they share their diverse array of talent. The open mic features both young students taking their first steps into the arts and seasoned performers sharing their craft. Come and share your passion for poetry and music with us! You are welcome to sign up to perform at any point during the event. Open to all: First-come-first-serve

 

Please click here for the Booth Directory and learn more about what’s happening at each booth.

 

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Creative Careers Days
Special events

Creative Careers Days “Form = Function = Form = Function = Form”

October 10, 2024 - October 12, 2024

Jameel Arts Centre, Various