Dubai:Dubai is set to explore new creative frontiers by hosting the 31st International Symposium on Electronic Art (ISEA 2026). This event, organized by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority in partnership with Zayed University, will run until 15th November under the theme 'ELIA Art Connecting Place, Data and Identity'.
According to Emirates News Agency, the symposium will unite quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and bio-art, offering innovative experiences that combine art, science, and technology. Dr. Janet Bellotto, Executive and Strategic Director of ISEA 2026 and Dean of the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises at Zayed University, emphasized the role of grants in supporting international participation, highlighting advanced artistic fields and applications of generative AI and extended reality.
Bellotto noted that human creativity remains central to artistic expression, with emerging technologies serving as tools to enhance artists' capabilities. Her remarks were made during the 'A Night Under the Stars' event at Al Wasl Dome in Expo City Dubai, featuring a panel discussion moderated by Amna Abulhoul, Executive Creative Director of Entertainment and Experiences at Expo City Dubai. The event highlighted advanced creative spaces facilitating unconventional artistic experiences with light, sound, and visual storytelling.
Maitha Ali Al Balooshi, Director of the Emerging Arts Department at Dubai Culture and Executive Director of ISEA 2026, stated that hosting the symposium strengthens Dubai's position as a global innovation hub and supports the growth of its cultural and creative industries. She announced upcoming international partnerships aimed at facilitating knowledge exchange and collaborative creative projects to address societal and environmental challenges.
Esra Ozkan, ISEA 2026 Producer and Curator specializing in digital and media arts, mentioned that the symposium's artistic program includes over 100 digital and interactive artworks. Ozkan highlighted Dubai's advanced infrastructure, which enables the realization of complex artistic projects, and predicted that art's importance will continue to grow over the next two decades, integrating into various sectors.
The panel also discussed the evolving relationship between humans and AI, including ethical challenges related to generative technologies. The evening featured an immersive visual presentation titled 'ELIA' at Al Wasl Dome, a visit to the House of Arts exhibition, and a live artistic performance titled 'Not So Human'.
ISEA's return to Dubai, following the 2014 edition, reaffirms the city's leading role in promoting global dialogue on the future of digital creativity.