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GLOBAL ART

CONVENTION

DUBAI 2025

Hosted by the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy (CSCD)

GLOBAL ART

CONVENTION

DUBAI 2025

Hosted by the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy (CSCD)

INTRODUCTION

KNOW MORE KNOW MORE ABOUT GLOBAL ART CONVENTION (GAC) DUBAI 2025 OUR GRAND EVENT

The Global Art Convention (GAC) Dubai 2025 is a reflective and interdisciplinary gathering at the intersection of art, practice, diplomacy, and intercultural dialogue. Organized by the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy (CSCD), the convention reimagines how art can act as a critical force in shaping societal narratives, political consciousness, and modes of international cooperation. Rooted in the belief that art is never neutral, GAC offers a platform where creative expression becomes a site of inquiry — not only into aesthetics, but into memory, resistance, and the architecture of belonging. 

GAC brings together artists, cultural leaders, diplomats, academics, and youth to explore the transformative role of storytelling, symbolism, and visual culture in addressing our most urgent global challenges. Through installations, dialogue, and collaborative practice, the convention positions art as both language and method — capable of confronting silence, questioning power, and building bridges across contested histories. In doing so, GAC seeks to construct new imaginaries of peace, justice, and global solidarity.

WHERE IS THE EVENT :

Kutubna Cultural Center, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

WHEN IS THE EVENT :

October 05 - 07, 2025

CONVENTION FEATURES

1 f

For Diplomats: Learn the Power of Creative Expression

Learn to use art, storytelling, poetry, and narrative as diplomatic instruments. Acquire tangible skills to engage with global challenges, mobilize memory, and communicate across cultures — with aesthetics as your advocacy.
2 f

For Young Students and Professionals: Connect, Collaborate, and Co-Create

From policy makers, analysts, filmmakers, artists and diplomats — meet a global group of minds committed to cultural exchange and justice. Connect with practitioners who are actively shaping international relations through art. GAC is a meeting point for future partnerships, residencies, co-authored exhibitions, and mutual learning.
3f

For Artists: Be Part of a Living Global Collective

GAC empowers individuals and institutions to co-author new imaginaries rooted in mutual respect, creative freedom, and intercultural ethics. Together, we create an ecosystem where stories are liberated.
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Diplomacy Through Art at Kutubna Centre

In partnership with the Kutubna Cultural Centre, GAC participants will be a part of the powerful Motherhood exhibition — an inquiry into origin, nurture, exile, and continuity. This immersive collaboration provides a rare opportunity for artists, diplomats, and scholars to experience diplomacy not as negotiation — but as expression, embodiment, and resistance.
1 f

For Diplomats: Learn the Power of Creative Expression

Learn to use art, storytelling, poetry, and narrative as diplomatic instruments. Acquire tangible skills to engage with global challenges, mobilize memory, and communicate across cultures — with aesthetics as your advocacy.
2 f

For Young Students and Professionals: Connect, Collaborate, and Co-Create

From policy makers, analysts, filmmakers, artists and diplomats — meet a global group of minds committed to cultural exchange and justice. Connect with practitioners who are actively shaping international relations through art. GAC is a meeting point for future partnerships, residencies, co-authored exhibitions, and mutual learning.
3f

For Artists: Be Part of a Living Global Collective

GAC empowers individuals and institutions to co-author new imaginaries rooted in mutual respect, creative freedom, and intercultural ethics. Together, we create an ecosystem where stories are liberated.
f 4

Diplomacy Through Art at Kutubna Centre

In partnership with the Kutubna Cultural Centre, GAC participants will be a part of the powerful Motherhood exhibition — an inquiry into origin, nurture, exile, and continuity. This immersive collaboration provides a rare opportunity for artists, diplomats, and scholars to experience diplomacy not as negotiation — but as expression, embodiment, and resistance.
SCHEDULE DETAILS

CORE MODULES

2ND OCT

THURSDAY

3RD OCT

FRIDAY

4TH OCT

SATURDAY
1. Art as Soft Power: Cultural Aesthetics in Global Relations
How nations tell stories through museums, film, and design.

Museums, galleries, and cultural institutions have long served as unofficial embassies, projecting national identity while fostering cross-cultural dialogue. This module examines how aesthetic choices—from Venice Biennale pavilions to cultural exchange exhibitions—function as sophisticated instruments of soft diplomacy, shaping global perceptions and building cultural capital in ways that traditional statecraft cannot achieve.

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2. Art, Society, and Statecraft
Resistance. Reimagination. Representation.

Artists occupy a unique position in civil society—simultaneously dependent on state patronage and capable of challenging state authority. We explore how creative practitioners navigate this tension, examining case studies and analyzing how states respond to, co-opt, or instrumentalize artistic dissent. Understand how creativity becomes a mode of governance, narrative warfare, and social transformation.

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3. Sacred Symbols & Shared Civilizations
The visual representation of collective memory.

Religious and cultural iconography provides a shared visual language that predates and often supersedes national boundaries. This module investigates how sacred art forms create spaces for intercultural dialogue that bypass conventional diplomatic channels, examining both opportunities and sensitivities in cross-civilizational artistic exchange.

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4. AI, NFTs & the Digital Renaissance
Who owns imagination in the age of algorithms?

Investigate how blockchain, AI, and emerging technologies are reshaping creative production and cultural ownership. We examine how AI-generated art, and virtual galleries are reshaping not only art markets but also questions of cultural sovereignty, digital colonialism, and the democratization of aesthetic production in global contexts.

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5. The Artist as Diplomat
Reimagining Soft Power Through Creative Expression

Artists have historically served as informal cultural ambassadors, often achieving diplomatic breakthroughs where official channels have failed. This module profiles artist-diplomats from Pablo Picasso's peace activism to contemporary cultural exchange programs, examining how creative practitioners navigate the delicate balance between artistic integrity and diplomatic utility.

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6. Intercultural Co-creation Labs (Interactive Session)
Hands-on. Cross-cultural. Transformative.

Participate in facilitated sessions designed for collective creation across borders. Moving beyond cultural exchange toward genuine co-creation, these interactive sessions explore how collaborative artistic practice can generate new forms of intercultural understanding. Participants engage in practical exercises that demonstrate how shared creative processes can overcome linguistic barriers and cultural misunderstandings, producing works that embody truly intercultural aesthetics. 

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How Our

Programs Look?

Ideas-Cross Frontier

August 31, 2024

CSCD – A UN Accredited Center

Art and Diplomacy Are No Longer Separate Conversations

Art is not neutral. It is Political.

Influence flows through images, memory, and meaning. Art is the new geopolitical prerequisite. It is the Artist's Dilemma; speaking truth to power while dependent on power. 

It negotiates identity, contests power, and shapes perception. It is cultural statecraft.

To engage in diplomacy today is to understand that art is political — and power is perceptual.

Art offers a unique space for dialogue: it is simultaneously local and universal, personal and political, emotional and intellectual. The Global Art Convention recognizes that aesthetic experience may be one of our most powerful tools for building the empathy and understanding necessary for effective global cooperation. 

PRICING TABLE

PARTICIPATION CATEGORIES

FULLY FUNDED

$16.99

Per Person

SELF FUNDED

$650

Per Person

CONVENTION ACCESS

$250

Per Person

EVENT GALLERY

COLLECTION OF IMAGES FROM RECENT HAPPENINGS!!

Discover highlights from our latest events, projects, and community initiatives. This curated gallery showcases the people, places, and moments that shape our work. Stay connected with the ongoing impact and vibrant activities at The CSCD.

OUR TESTIMONIAL

WHAT OUR VISITOR'S SAY ?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there a participation fee for GAC?

The participation fee for the Global Art Convention Dubai is just $16.99 USD. This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. If you are not selected for the funded category due to the competitive evaluation or are unable to attend as a self-funded participant, we have an exciting alternative for you. To ensure you still benefit from our expertise and network, our classes feature a diverse cohort with approximately 20 nationalities in each batch. You will have the opportunity to enroll in our exclusive 6-10 week virtual programs on public diplomacy, identities, public service relations, art, philosophy, and politics. These programs, valued at over $250 USD, are taught by young scholars and offer tremendous value, providing a rich and engaging learning experience that will significantly enhance your knowledge and skills in these critical areas. Learn more about our institute.

What does the Self-Funded Fee of $650 USD include?

The Self-Funded Fee of $650 USD covers comprehensive benefits, including event merchandise, a certificate of participation, access to all modules, workshops, networking sessions, and summit materials. It also encompasses accommodation, meals, sightseeing, and a complete summit experience in Bangkok ensuring a holistic and enriching participation.

Is financial assistance or scholarships available for participants?

Yes, financial assistance is available to support participants. GACoffers various opportunities, including five fully funded slots covering all forum expenses such as event merchandise, meals, accommodation, and additional perks like travel support. Additionally, 15 partially funded slots covering 50% of the summit fee are available. An outstanding participant will be designated as the Ideal Strategist, receiving an endorsement to work with CSCD.

How can I apply for fully funded or partially funded opportunities?

To apply for fully funded or partially funded opportunities, express your interest during the registration process and submit necessary documentation demonstrating your alignment with the forum’s objectives. Selection criteria emphasize merit and commitment.

Do fully funded applicants include airfare?

Airfare support is provided to the funding holders based on criteria. As a social enterprise, we strive to maintain equilibrium, ensuring authenticity in both our merit system and program delivery.

Is the participation fee refundable in case of cancellation?

The participation fee is non-refundable, although participants with self-funded opportunities may receive specific cancellation terms communicated individually. Applicants are encouraged to review terms and conditions prior to submission.

If selected for the funded categories, what perks will I enjoy?

Participants selected for funded categories will enjoy comprehensive benefits outlined for each category, including event merchandise, a certificate of participation, meals, accommodation, travel support and any specified additional benefits.

Can I transfer my registration to other person if I am unable to attend?

Transfers of registration to another individual are generally not permitted. Exceptions may be considered based on individual circumstances. For assistance, please contact our dedicated registration team.

How can I stay updated on forum announcements and changes?

Stay informed about summit updates, announcements, and real-time changes by regularly visiting the official summit website and following our official social media channels.

Who can I contact for further inquiries or assistance?

For any additional inquiries or assistance, our dedicated summit support team is available via Contact@thecscd.org or through the contact form on the official forum website. We are committed to providing assistance throughout your forum journey.

Can I pay the participation fee on-site during the Convention?

No, on-site payments are not accepted. The participation fee must be settled upon registration confirmation and is non-refundable. All participants, including those granted funding, must complete registration and payment beforehand.

What is the selection criteria?

Applicants for the GAC Dubai must be aged 16-45, including students and professionals passionate about public diplomacy. Candidates should demonstrate innovative ideas and a commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration with CSCD.

SPONSERS AND PARTNERS

GET IN TOUCH

CONTACT US FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Have questions? Reach out to us at contact@thecscd.org

EVENT VENUE :

Kutubna Cultural Center, Dubai

LOCATION ADDRESS :

Madina Avenues Shop 17A - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Kutubna Cultural Center

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Kutubna Cultural Center

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