A Multisensory Journey Through Arab Art and Specialty Coffee

Kutubna Cultural Center, Dubai’s newest independent bookstore and cultural hub, is set to host a unique event that blends the worlds of contemporary Arab art and specialty coffee. On Sunday, August 25, at 5 pm, attendees will be treated to an immersive experience that combines a guided art tour, curated coffee tasting, and a creative writing workshop.

The event takes place within Kutubna’s current exhibition, “One Hundred Years of Painting: Art from 1916 to 2017,” showcasing works by award-winning artists. Participants will explore six paintings by renowned artists Khaled Ben Slimane, Najat Makki, and Ali Hassan, each paired with a selection of nine specialty coffees sourced from Colombia, Uganda, El Salvador, Ethiopia, and Brazil. The coffee, roasted by Cazador Specialty Coffee Roasters, will be presented in a tasting session where representatives from Cazador will guide participants through the flavors and notes of each brew, connecting these to the colors and emotions conveyed in the artworks.

The concept behind this event is to offer a multisensory experience where sight, smell, and taste converge. The coffee tasting is designed to reflect the “flavor wheel” used by coffee aficionados, which categorizes tastes by color. This creates a unique interaction between the visual elements of the paintings and the corresponding coffee flavors, enhancing the overall sensory impact on participants.

Following the art tour and coffee tasting, attendees are invited to a creative writing workshop. This segment of the event provides a space for reflection, allowing participants to channel the emotions and thoughts evoked by the art and coffee into written form. Whether through poetry, prose, fiction, or nonfiction, participants are encouraged to express their creativity, with writing prompts provided to inspire their work. The workshop is open to all levels of writing experience, making it an inclusive opportunity for everyone to explore their creative side.

The event is designed to foster deeper connections between the art on display and the coffee that complements it, while also building a sense of community among attendees. Kutubna aims to create an inclusive environment where cultural exchange and creative expression are encouraged.

The registration fee for the workshop is 50 AED. Interested participants can register through the Events section on the Kutubna website at www.kutubna.ae.

About the Artists:

• Khaled Ben Slimane: A Tunisian ceramicist, sculptor, and painter, Ben Slimane is known for his use of letters, words, and Qur’anic verses to create spiritually infused art. His works often incorporate the four primary elements—earth, fire, wind, and water—through bold black brushstrokes and intricate spirals that invite contemplation.
• Ali Hassan: One of Qatar’s most celebrated artists, Hassan is recognized for his semi-abstract compositions that utilize a mix of watercolor, pencil, and ceramics. His work often features vibrant colors and melancholic undertones, reflecting his deep connection to Egypt.
• Najat Makki: A pioneering Emirati visual artist, Makki has received numerous accolades, including the Order of Arts and Letters from France and the Emirates Appreciation Award. Her work has been exhibited internationally, with notable appearances at the Venice Biennial, Beijing International Biennial, and more.

About Kutubna Cultural Center:

Established in 2023, Kutubna Cultural Center is an independent bookstore and literary hub in Dubai, dedicated to promoting literary and cultural enrichment in the Gulf region. Kutubna celebrates the voices and achievements of Khaleeji, Arab, Middle Eastern, North African, and Muslim creators through a variety of cultural events, making these experiences accessible to a diverse audience.

About Cazador Specialty Coffee Roastery:

Founded in 2022, Cazador Specialty Coffee Roastery is a Dubai-based micro roastery dedicated to discovering and roasting premium coffee beans from around the world. Cazador is committed to delivering high-quality coffee, emphasizing that quality is a habit, not an option.

For more information, please visit www.kutubna.ae.