Sunday, Apr 27, 2014
Dubai: A sum of Dh1.3 million was raised through Art4Sight charity exhibition and auction organised by Noor Dubai Charity Foundation yesterday, to fund the treatment, prevention and education on blindness globally.
About 34 local, Arab and international artists donated 39 pieces of their artwork to raise the amount. Participating artists included Najat Makki, Tagalsir Hassan, El Seed and Samir Al Safadi. Shaikha Latifa Bint Maktoum’s artwork ‘Oral Tradition’ was among the unique pieces of artwork at the exhibition. Farhad Moshiri’s ‘Tomorrow is a New Day’ received the highest bid and was sold for $77,000 (Dh277,200).
Commenting on the motivation behind the event, Dr. Manal Taryam, CEO of Noor Dubai Foundation said: “Our programmes in countries of need are not limited to restoration of sight; we also support patients who are unable to afford eye medication and glasses with an aim to prevent further deterioration of their condition. Through this programme we hope to make a positive difference to their lives and the lives of their family members. Providing the gift of sight aids both economic and social development in countries of need.”
She also highlighted that the funds raised through this exhibition will mainly be used for Noor Dubai’s “Trachoma Elimination” programme in Ethiopia as well as for the elderly screening programme in the Northern Emirates. The Noor Dubai Foundation is at present managing an ongoing eye camp in Yemen and will organise another camp in Ethiopia next month.
The exhibition, held at the Dubai Ladies Club, was supported by the Cultural Office of Shaikha Manal Bint Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Tashkeel Studio and inaugurated by Shaikh Mansoor Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The auction was managed by Christie’s International.
Staff Report
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