Dubai: The exhaustion of digital presence

This exhibition reflects the duality of the digital age — celebrating the opportunities the internet has provided while also expressing the exhaustion and apprehension that come with a prolonged digital presence

In September, Tashkeel launched a new solo exhibition featuring artworks from UAE-based artist Mouza Al Hamrani. The exhibition explores the intersection between art and technology. Homepage is the Emirati illustrator and multimedia designer’s first solo exhibition and the culmination of her Tashkeel Critical Practice Programme journey.

Last year, Mouza was among the only four UAE-based artists accepted for Tashkeel’s popular Critical Practice Programme. She worked with a mentor to produce a series of artwork showcasing her visionary blend of traditional illustration and cutting-edge digital artistry. Homepage promises to captivate audiences with its bold reinterpretation of digital and cultural narratives, blending past and present in a compelling visual dialogue.

“Tashkeel’s Critical Practice Programme allowed me to explore the complexities of contemporary life and cultural heritage,” Mouza said. “This exhibition reflects the duality of the digital age — celebrating the opportunities the internet has provided while also expressing the exhaustion and apprehension that come with a prolonged digital presence. I aimed to capture this nuanced experience, inviting viewers to reflect on their relationship with the digital world. It’s a portrait of my internet experience in this region during my formative years to the current day.”

The exhibition will accompany two talks and two artist-led tours on 29 September (if you missed that!) and 13 October at the FN Designs Gallery, Alserkal Avenue. The first talk was between Mouza and her mentor, Salem Al Qassimi, while the second will be an open Q&A between Mouza and the audience, moderated by Alia Al Shamsi.

Karam Hoar, Marketing & Communications Manager, Tashkeel, commented, “The Tashkeel Critical Practice Programme nurtures and showcases local talent by offering sustained studio support, critique, and production for practicing contemporary artists living and working in the UAE. Each artist’s year-long program is carefully built around the individual’s focus areas, so the results are always unique and thought-provoking. ‘Homepage’ is a prime example and will inspire artists and the general public. The artwork effectively symbolizes the chaos and imperfections of the digital age, and we believe it will inspire dialogue about our regional digital history and its ongoing influence.”