Shubbak- A window on contemporary Arab culture Monday 24 June 2013, Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington, London SW7 2RL

“Shubbak is a revelation of the solid bond between London and the Arab world”.

Lahd Gallery was delighted to contribute and celebrate the launch of Shubbak 2013, showcasing over 70 events in more than 30 venues throughout the city from the 4th – 24^th of July 2013.

The wide-ranging programmes offered by the Shubbak festival include the visual arts, film, music, theatre, dance, literature, architecture, lectures and dynamic talks. Unquestionably one of the most electrifying events this summer!

Shubbak features works by contemporary Arab artists, writers, filmmakers, musicians, choreographers and architects.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson and Omar Al Qattan, Shubbak Festival’s Chairman and organiser were among the main speakers of that startling opening evening.

The Mayor of London with an exceptional humour declared that he was ‘very proud to be hailed I think as the "Mayor of the eigth Emirate’ referring to London’s popularity at this time of year.

He also spoke frankly about being a ‘proud possessor of a Muslim Great Grandfather - who would frankly be astonished that his great grandson became the mayor of London’

The evening went on with a magical oriental atmosphere, delicious food, exotic drinks and guests from all over the world celebrating the weeks to come of Arabic festivities.

For more information on the next events visit http://shubbak.co.uk/