The first annual Abraaj Capital art prize attracted nearly 100 applications for the three winning spots from artists in every country in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (Menasa) region, it was revealed recently.

Cristiana Perrella and Kutlug Ataman, Carol Solomon and Zoulikha Bouabdellah and Leyla Fakhr and Nazgol Ansarinia were the three recipient curator/artist teams of the first competition of the Abraaj Capital art prize 2009.

Their projects were unveiled during the recent Art Dubai at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, which was held between March 18 and 23.

As Art Dubai is the Middle East’s largest modern and contemporary annual art fair, the unveiling during this event offered the winning artists an unparalleled opportunity to widen their global reputation and network.

The works have since become part of the corporate collection of Abraaj Capital, one of the largest private equity groups in Menasa region.

“Following the overwhelming response to the first-ever Abraaj Capital art prize, it’s clear that we have set a precedent by recognizing the importance of the artist and curator working together in collaboration from the very early stages of a project,” said Savita Apte, chair of the Abraaj Capital art prize.

“Last year we received almost 100 applications representing artists from every country in the Menasa region in collaboration with curators from all over the world, and we’re expecting a significant increase for 2010 as a further testament to the void this prize has filled.”

This art prize creates a unique opportunity for international curators from any country to work with artists from the Menasa region. Unlike other art prizes, the Abraaj Capital art prize is awarded not on the basis of an exhibition, nor on the basis of a work of art that has already been produced, but for a project proposal and its latent potential.

Designed to raise awareness of innovative and experimental work, the Abraaj Capital art prize encourages collaborative relationships for both artists and curators to produce work that is dynamic and cutting edge.

“The Abraaj Capital art prize is an unprecedented opportunity developed to elevate artists from the Menasa region onto a more global stage,” said Frederic Sicre, executive director, Abraaj Capital.

“This prize aims to support the burgeoning creative community for which this region is fast becoming internationally recognised,” he added.

Abraaj Capital pioneered the art prize in partnership with Art Dubai in order to foster and reward artistic development in its core markets.

Artists from the Menasa region have until the end of April to submit applications for the second Abraaj Capital art prize 2010. – TradeArabia News Service