UAE artist gets pride of place in Assilah Festival 2010

Assilah, Morocco - July 19, 2010 (WAM)- Artist Abdulrahman Al Maini has painted one of the most visible murals in Assilah as part of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH) participation in ongoing Assilah Festival 2010 in Morocco.
Al Maini said his work was inspired by the unique village on the ocean "Assilah's mural is a symbol for the city famous for its beautiful long beaches. So I brought my colours from the UAE to paint Assilah's waves," he said. The mural, a striking geometrical mix of colours, takes pride of place on the wall just off the main medina square. Al Maini said his experience in Assilah was hugely rewarding.
"I had a great cultural exchange experience here as I came to know closely a number of international artists. I'm grateful for the people of Assilah too, who encouraged me and came to know my artwork closely. I am also grateful to ADACH for giving me the opportunity to participate in the festival." The mural is just one of a range of events being held throughout the festival including workshops, art exhibitions, lectures and seminars. These will address topics such as the book industry and publishing (especially the Abu Dhabi Book Fair), Kitab, Qalam and the Sheikh Zayed Book Award. There will also be a workshop addressing the current unique market for UAE handicrafts. The festival will run from July 10th to July 27th. ADACH, along with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development and Masdar are representing UAE officially at the Assilah Festival as a guest of honour this year. – Emirates News Agency, WAM