Dubai Culture Unveils ‘Takhayyal' Art Installation by eL Seed in Collaboration with Tashkeel

Left to right: Susanne Noelle Kadoura, Creative Initiative Consultant; eL Seed; Moza Hussain Lootah, Public Art Manager

Dubai, UAE – 19 February, 2025: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), in collaboration with Tashkeel, has announced the unveiling of ‘Takhayyal,’ a striking public art installation by Franco-Tunisian artist eL Seed. The newly commissioned sculptural piece is part of the Dubai Public Art initiative, previously launched by Dubai Culture to transform Dubai into an open-air museum, making art accessible to all.

Inspired by the phrase “Imagine something you have never done before,” ‘Takhayyal’ reflects the power of art in cultivating connections, sparking curiosity, and inviting audiences to explore deeper meanings. The installation merges Arabic calligraphy with contemporary aesthetics, serving as a bridge between heritage, creativity, and community engagement.

Dr Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted that public art reflects Dubai’s cultural vibrancy and artistic appeal, saying:

"The significance of the Public Art Strategy lies in its ability to create a distinctive cultural and artistic environment in Dubai, shaping the city's visual identity while showcasing innovative artistic experiences that contribute to the strength of the cultural and creative industries. The artwork 'Takhayyal' is a valuable addition to Dubai’s artistic landscape, reinforcing Dubai Culture’s commitment to empowering artists and creatives, encouraging them to express their perspectives, advance their creative journeys, and present their work to a diverse audience."

Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Founder and Executive Director of Tashkeel, underscored the profound essence of the word ‘Takhayyal’ saying, “‘Takhayyal’ is more than just a word; it is the foundation of every artist’s journey. Imagination knows no limits—this is the essence of Tashkeel’s mission, continuously exploring new possibilities and supporting artists in realising their vision. eL Seed’s sculptural journey began right here in 2013 during his artist residency at Tashkeel, where he first mixed his now-signature pink hue on site. With ‘Takhayyal’ now installed in Nad Al Sheba, we celebrate how imagination serves as both the starting point and the destination for every artistic journey.”

Reflecting on his latest installation, eL Seed expressed his gratitude and personal connection to the piece, saying, “‘Takhayyal’ embodies the spirit of Tashkeel—an invitation to dream, push boundaries, and create beyond the ordinary. When Sheikha Latifa first invited me for an artist residency in 2013, she challenged me with these very words: ‘Imagine something you have never done before.’ That phrase led me to create my first sculpture, which culminated in my debut solo exhibition, ‘Declaration,’ painted in my signature pink (219C). Today, 12 years later, I return to complete this journey with ‘Takhayyal’—a tribute to Tashkeel, to Sheikha Latifa’s vision, and to the limitless power of imagination.”

A long-time collaborator with Tashkeel, eL Seed became an artist-in-residence in November 2013 and later partnered with ENOC during Expo 2020 Dubai. His first solo exhibition, ‘Declaration,’ was hosted at Tashkeel, marking a pivotal moment in his artistic journey. Renowned for merging calligraphy, philosophy, and storytelling, his works have graced iconic locations worldwide, including the façade of the Arab World Institute in Paris, the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea, the townships of Cape Town, and the heart of Cairo’s Zabaleen district. Through his artistic practice, eL Seed conveys universal messages of peace, unity, and shared human experience, reinforcing the enduring power of art as a medium of connection.