Dubai to host region's first camel caravan

Following the success of similar public art celebrations across Europe, the US and Australia, Dubai is to host the Middle East's first Camel Caravan, a unique event that will merge art and commerce, while benefiting charity and the community.

"Camel Caravan is a high value, eye-catching, public art project that will foster goodwill and entertain as well as benefit business, the community, the arts and many charities," said Ken Palmer, Project Director from Dubai-based ArtWorks, the driving force behind the initiative.

"In the past five years, over 50 global cities have staged this type of public art event. Virtually everyone of these projects has resulted in improved business volumes, renewed community spirit, increased tourism and meaningful contributions to charities."

Local, regional and international artistes will paint and embellish camel sculptures to create unique works of art. The diverse camel artworks will be displayed, in a multitude of high profile locations around Dubai, including public parks, from September until the end of February.

A spectacular public auction will then be held with proceeds going to charity.

"The goal is to generate the most exciting, beautiful and appealing camels possible, that will attract people to the city and bring the highest bids at auction," said Ken Palmer. "Sponsors will underwrite the manufacture of the camels, the artistes' honorarium and help defray costs associated with getting the project to the public.

"In the process, they will improve their exposure and involvement with the community, polish their brand and raise retail volumes, all while supporting the arts and charities."

Inspired by an exhibition of cows in Switzerland, Chicago was among the first international cities to try the idea with 340 fibreglass cows in 1999. The event became its most successful promotion, viewed over 10 million times and attracting more than two million extra visitors.

According to official figures, city stores experienced revenue increases of between 25 per cent and 30 per cent during the four months of the event; $500 million in revenue was added to Chicago's economy and $3.5 million was raised for various charities. The following year visits to Chicago's art galleries and museums were up 14 per cent and previously undiscovered artistes were offered gallery exhibitions.

"Dubai is a vibrant, multicultural metropolis whose entertainment and sports events, great dining, amazing shopping and fantastic festivals make it one of the most exciting cities in the world," said Patricia Palmer, the project's Art and Community Service Director.

"From today through next February, Dubai will be on the world map like never before. With Camel Caravan, talented artistes, supported by generous patrons, will transform the entire city into a wonderful outdoor art gallery.

"This truly inspirational event reinforces Dubai's commitment to nurture, the arts and culture and to providing entertaining events for visitors and residents alike. It will also showcase the city's great cultural diversity and creative talents."

The event is supported by the Dubai Rotary Club, Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Municipality and Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.