Mohammed bin Rashid congratulates winner of Great Arab Minds Award in Literature & Arts

emirates7 - His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, extended his congratulations to artist Dia Al-Azzawi for receiving the Great Arab Minds Award in the Literature and Arts category.

In a post on X, Sheikh Mohammed remarked, “We congratulate artist Dia Al-Azzawi from Iraq, winner of the Great Arab Minds Award in the Literature and Arts category. Inspired by the rich heritage of Mesopotamia, his works, featured in some of the world’s most prestigious museums and galleries, address significant Arab humanitarian issues. His art uniquely combines calligraphy, poetry, and tradition with contemporary expression.”

During a video call, Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the Great Arab Minds Higher Committee, informed Al-Azzawi of his win. He praised the artist’s global contributions, which have elevated contemporary Arab art on the international stage. Al Gergawi highlighted that the Great Arab Minds Award aligns with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid's vision of showcasing exceptional Arab talent, inspiring the next generation, and encouraging young Arabs to make meaningful contributions to humanity.

With over 50 years of experience, Dia Al-Azzawi has established himself as a trailblazer in contemporary Arab art. His work celebrates Arab culture and heritage, using innovative techniques to spotlight the region’s history and address its pressing issues. Al-Azzawi’s portfolio includes hundreds of artworks and participation in numerous international exhibitions, creating a bridge between modern art and Arab identity.

Renowned for his creative use of visual art, Arabic calligraphy, and sculpture, Al-Azzawi’s work captures key events and challenges in the Arab world through a contemporary lens that resonates globally. His distinct style integrates Arabic letters and poetry into modern art, merging text and imagery in innovative ways that honor tradition while embracing modernity.

The Great Arab Minds Award, the largest of its kind in the Arab world, recognizes exceptional contributions across six categories: Natural Sciences (Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry), Economics, Medicine, Literature and Arts, Engineering and Technology, and Architecture and Design.