Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has unveiled highlights of the 31st International Symposium on Electronic/Emerging Art (ISEA2026 Dubai), which runs from November 6 to 15 under the theme “ELYAH: Constellating Place, Data and Identity.”
The symposium explores the intersection of art, science and technology and supports Dubai Culture’s Digital Arts Roadmap. It uses a hybrid format, with an in-person artistic programme across Dubai and an online academic programme open to participants worldwide.
The artistic programme drew more than 1,000 submissions, with over 100 artworks shortlisted. More than 150 academic submissions were also shortlisted. The agenda includes over 140 academic papers, more than 40 artist talks and sessions, over 15 workshops, more than 10 panel discussions, seven Eco Labs and four special-track exhibitions and sessions.
Exhibitions will be held at 20 locations, including Al Safa Art & Design Library, Etihad Museum, Kanvas and Foundry Gallery. ARTE Museum will host immersive experiences, TODA will stage performances and Al Wasl Dome will feature projection mapping. A special track, Evolving Calligraphy, Letter Art, Typography, will look at how calligraphic traditions are being reimagined through digital media.
The academic programme includes the New Media Art Summit, which examines how artistic practice is changing through digital networks, immersive environments and artificial intelligence. Four core tracks anchor the theme: Celestial Dialogues, Charting Constellations, Eco-Tech Futures and Starlinked Worlds.
Maitha Ali Al Blooshi, Director of the Emerging Arts Department at Dubai Culture, said the global response reflects the emirate’s ability to bring artists, researchers and practitioners together. She added that the symposium will give local talent a chance to learn, experiment and build links with specialised international networks.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
