Camel-art figures for DSF

In the lead up to the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) 2004, a number of companies are sponsoring camel paintings to adorn the city, which following the festival will be auctioned and the proceeds given to worthwhile local charities.

Mashreqbank selected Ala'a for their commission, based on a sketch to evoke the symbols of Arabian heritage and to appeal to all the family, one of the DSF motifs.

"The subject of Arabia was inspired by the camel itself, as it is one of the most instantly recognised symbols in the Arab world," says Ala'a Al Lawati, who has had a passion for painting since she was a child.

"As I was designing the camel I had two targets in mind, tourists and children. For tourists, I wanted them to experience our Arabian heritage and to attract children I chose to represent them in bright colours and a non-realistic way."

"On the camel's hump I include a rising sun, the symbol of Mashreqbank, as mashreq means both the East and the sunrise," explains Ala'a.

Ala'a, who studied in the UK and has an honours degree in accounting and finance, has always had an interest in art.

"Recently I attended a number of courses in art and fashion design. I also I joined Dubai International Art Centre and participated in an art exhibition for Friends of Cancer Patients in Sharjah and the member's exhibition at Wafi Centre last November."

"The Art Centre is very active and it was through their newsletter that I learned about the camel painting project, which I was keen to participate in because it is for charity," said Ala'a.

Altogether there are 50 of the fibreglass camels that have been put on display at popular sites throughout DSF. Following the festival the camels will be auctioned, with the proceeds from Mashreqbank's camel being donated to the Rashid Paediatric Centre.

"By supporting both arts and charity, these camels are an inspired way to brighten up the city during DSF and will delight visitors from around the world. We are delighted to be associated with such an initiative. We at Mashreqbank believe that the sun never sets for a noble cause," said Steven Pinto, Head of Retail Banking Group, Mashreqbank.