On April 26, Khawla Arts and Culture welcomed art enthusiasts, collectors, and creative minds for a vibrant day of artistic immersion and conversation on collecting practices. Set against the backdrop of Abu Dhabi’s dynamic cultural scene, the event brought together key figures from the regional art world, offering guests a rare opportunity to engage deeply with both artistic creation and the nuances of art collection.

Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Khawla Arts and Culture stands as a testament to the Foundation’s vision of fostering artistic dialogue and preserving cultural heritage. The premises are thoughtfully designed to lead visitors on an immersive journey through various dimensions of creativity, with a seamless blend of exhibitions, workshops, and intellectual spaces.

The tour began at the ground floor's serene reception area, where guests were greeted by a striking sculptural installation by renowned Emirati artist Azza Al Qubaisi, alongside an elegant jewelry showcase by Sandra Habr, inspired by the beauty of Arabic calligraphy. Adjacent to the reception, the main exhibition hall featured a rotating selection of contemporary and abstract artworks, carefully curated to highlight emerging artistic voices and modern aesthetics.

Moving upstairs, visitors explored the mini calligraphy museum, a celebration of Arabic script and its enduring artistic legacy, as well as a private gallery displaying works by Syrian artist Nizar Sabour. Guests were also treated to a look at the personal art collection of Her Highness Sheikha Khawla bint Ahmed Khalifa Al Suwaidi, whose works reflect a profound engagement with culture, poetry, and artistic expression. A tranquil library on the first floor offered visitors a curated selection of books on art, history, and literature, emphasizing Khawla’s commitment to lifelong learning and cultural exchange.

A signature highlight of Khawla Arts and Culture is its dedication to hands-on artistic engagement, and this was showcased in a dynamic calligraphy workshop led by artist Ahmed Amine. Known for his modern interpretation of classical forms, Amine guided all thirty guests in a lively session under the theme “Simplify.” Participants worked together in a single space, emphasizing community and collective creativity, as they explored new ways to express themselves through the timeless art of calligraphy.

In fact, Khawla Arts and Culture is famous for hosting artist-led workshops and you can join any of the upcoming events. Just find the right one here.  

The day culminated in a rich and insightful panel discussion on "Collecting Practices", featuring leading voices from the region’s cultural landscape:

Moderated in an open and engaging style, the panel offered a deep dive into what it means to build a meaningful art collection today. Speakers emphasized that Abu Dhabi provides an exceptional infrastructure for emerging collectors, citing initiatives such as Abu Dhabi Art and NYUAD’s programs that nurture both knowledge and networks.

The panelists remembered the amazing story of Herbert and Dorothy Vogel, the famed American art collectors, who served as an inspiring reference point during the panel discussion. The Vogels, a modest couple — he a postal worker and she a librarian — built one of the most significant collections of contemporary art in the United States by focusing on passion rather than prestige. Their journey emphasized that collecting is not about wealth but about commitment, vision, and building genuine relationships with artists. Their example resonated strongly with the panel's message: that meaningful collecting begins with love for the art itself and a sense of responsibility toward cultural stewardship.

Guests were encouraged to think about collecting beyond investment, and to approach it as an act of storytelling — a way to build a coherent and personal narrative through art. 

Another great tip, given by the practicing collector, Salvatore Lavallo, was his personal rule of “5 Ps”:

Another important insight shared was that collecting also comes with a responsibility: establishing a trustworthy profile is key, as galleries and artists are selective about whom they sell to. In essence, art collecting is about cultivating relationships, trust, and contributing meaningfully to the cultural ecosystem.

Throughout the day, Khawla Arts and Culture once again demonstrated its role as a vital institution in Abu Dhabi’s flourishing cultural landscape. By hosting creators, collectors, and thought leaders living in the region, the Foundation continues to strengthen the ties that support creative growth, cultural literacy, and community building.

For many guests, the event offered not only new knowledge but also inspiration — a call to engage more deeply with art, to support emerging talents, and perhaps, to begin or expand their own journey as collectors in the region’s ever-evolving art scene.