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Dutch expats raise funds for Dubai Autism Centre

Posted Sun 24 Jun 2012 11:44:01 am in News, Healthcare | By Dubib.com News Desk


Dubai: The Dutch Association in Dubai has raised more than Dh43,000 in funds for the Dubai Autism Centre on Wednesday night through holding an art auction.

Twelve UAE-based Dutch artists were commissioned to create artwork in a bid to raise funds for the autism centre, which included a collection Dubai’s scenery and traditional clothes, as well as its natural wildlife and also a special montage made by children from the Dubai Autism Centre.

“This is the second time that we have held such an auction for the Autism Centre. The artists were free to be as creative as they like and there was no theme in this exhibition,” said Ingrid Levelt-Iseger, a representative from the Dutch Association.

Last year, the Dutch Association managed to raise a little over Dh40,000 and organisers intend to carry out a similar event next year as well. This year, it raised Dh43,872.

 

Held at the Atlantis, Palm Dubai, dozens of artwork were set up to attract the attention of potential bidders. The event also acted as a venue for Dutch children as more than 20 passed by the exhibition earlier in the afternoon to learn more about Dutch talent in the emirates.

Ambassador of the Dutch Embassy Gerard Michels, who was present at the event, announced that, “Autism is a tough challenge for children and families involved, and requires dedication and time and it is time to spread the wealth for those in need.”  

One of the works made by Ufuk Kobas stood out apart from the crowd as her paintings featured portraits of celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor and Amy Winehouse.

“My main focus is on pop art and I get my inspiration from celebrities,” said Kobas, whose paintings were adorned with glitter and sequins.

Kobas was born in Istanbul, Turkey, and has worked as a freelance designer and art director in different countries in the last 13 years, including Qatar and the UAE.





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