In the vibrant landscape of the UAE, where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony, Latifa Saeed, a Dubai-born multidisciplinary artist, has emerged as a creative force. Her mission is to capture the essence of perpetual motion, both in the physical world and in the realm of ideas. Drawing upon the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage, Latifa transforms public spaces into narratives of motion and resilience. Her artistic philosophy is deeply rooted in the UAE’s unique blend of heritage and progress, where storytelling, poetry, and cultural memory merge with a future-focused vision.
Latifa’s latest creation, Al Sarmadi, is more than just a sculpture; it is a profound conversation between space, time, and the continuous rhythm of existence. Commissioned by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for the NAS Sports roundabout in Nad Al Sheba, the installation uses stainless steel rods to capture fluidity and momentum, transforming motion into art. The sculpture features eight horses mid-canter, their forms frozen in various stages of movement, creating a rhythmic contrast between stillness and dynamism. This mirrors the pulse of the city that surrounds them, embodying the relentless energy and broader artistic philosophy of perpetual motion.
Raised in the ever-evolving city of Dubai, Latifa’s childhood shaped her perspective to think globally, embrace innovation, and challenge boundaries. Her artistic practice is marked by a fascination with movement, a force that drives her work. Al Sarmadi is a tribute to speed, resilience, and continuity, qualities that few symbols convey as powerfully as the horse. The sculpture generates an illusion of perpetual motion as vehicles pass, making it never static, always shifting.
For Latifa, art is not confined to galleries and museums; it belongs to the people. Public art transforms urban spaces into cultural landmarks, enriching the city’s soul. In a country where architecture and innovation shape the skyline, public art serves as a vital force that humanises urban spaces. It builds bridges, preserving the past while propelling us forward, linking history, present, and future in a continuous flow.
Latifa’s career has been marked by prestigious exhibitions and accolades. She received the Emerging Artist Fellowship from the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation and was awarded a grant from the Misk Art Institute. Her work has been showcased globally, including at the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Venice Biennale. Latifa’s international presence continues to grow, with her becoming the first Emirati artist to present a solo exhibition in Almaty, Kazakhstan. With Al Sarmadi, she invites the world to witness, engage, and ultimately move with her art.
Latifa’s artistic journey is a testament to her ability to bridge cultures through expression. Her work explores the interplay of natural elements, further cementing her presence on the global art stage. As a pioneering figure in contemporary art, Latifa Saeed continues to inspire with her unique blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of perpetual motion in all its forms.
