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Building an Art World from Scratch: Inside Dubai’s Creative Movement with Asmaa Al Shabibi

Raja Haddad Season 2 Episode 1

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Season 2 kicks off with an inspiring conversation between hosts Lina Nahhas and Raja Haddad and special guest Asmaa Al Shabibi, co-founder of Lawrie Shabibi Gallery and a key figure in Dubai’s evolving art scene.

 What’s Inside This Episode?
🏛️ How Asmaa transitioned from corporate law to curating groundbreaking art exhibitions.
🖼️ The early days of the Dubai Art movement & how it became a global hub.
🎨 Challenges Middle Eastern artists face & how galleries help shape their success.
⚖️ The fine balance between art, business, and passion in the creative industry.

Asmaa’s story is a masterclass in reinvention, risk-taking, and resilience. Whether you're an entrepreneur, artist, or someone navigating career shifts, this conversation has valuable insights for you! 

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share!

#Forward_MovesPodcast #DubaiArtScene #Art #Gallery #MiddleEasternArt #Creativity #Entrepreneurship #ArtAndBusiness #NewSeason #ArtDubai2025


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Lina’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lina_movements/ 
Raja’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/octoraj/ 

Follow Asmaa: https://www.instagram.com/lawrieshabibi/ 

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:31 Discussing Music Preferences and Misconceptions
02:03 Meet Asmaa Shabibi
02:50 Asmaa's Background and Career Journey
05:59 The Leap from Law to Art
13:14 Challenges and Entrepreneurial Insights
17:21 Differentiating in a Competitive Art Scene
20:22 Life in Bahrain and Cultural Mix
21:26 Advocating Through Art
22:21 Middle Eastern Art Perceptions
24:00 Challenges for Young and Mid-Career Artists
27:37 Balancing Passion and Profession
31:07 Finding Time for Hobbies
36:23 Reflections and Future Plans
38:56 Final Thoughts

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