DUBAI.- Dubai-based private equity Abraaj Capital has today announced the winning teams of artists and curators for the 2010 edition of the Abraaj Capital Art Prize. Established to raise awareness of work created by artists across the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA), the Abraaj Capital Art Prize was launched last year as a platform for emerging artistic talent.

The recipients of the second edition of the Prize are Egyptian artist Hala Elkoussy and curator Jelle Bouwhuis; Lebanese artist Marwan Sahmarani and curator Mahita El Bacha Urieta; and Algerian artist Kader Attia and curator Laurie Ann Farrell. The winners were honoured last night in Dubai during an official ceremony. They have now embarked upon a six-month period during which their art works have to be completed. The works will then be unveiled during Art Dubai in March and become part of the Abraaj Capital Art Collection.

Speaking at the event, Frederic Sicre, Executive Director of Abraaj Capital, commented: “Now in its second year, the Abraaj Capital Art Prize signifies not only our continued support of artistic talent across the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia regions, but also our unwavering commitment as a patron of the arts. The Prize is one of the most generous in the world and it empowers young artists to bring their visions and creative gifts to the forefront of both the regional and international art community.”

Savita Apte, Chair of the Abraaj Capital Art Prize, stated: “The quality of applications that we have received this year indicates a significantly higher level of interest, understanding and maturity. We are thrilled with the high calibre of artists and curators, young and established alike, vying for the Abraaj Capital Art Prize. There will be both a regional and global audience keen to see each of these artists’ creations at Art Dubai in March 2010.”