Sheikha Lulu Al Sabah’s Quest for Cultural Diplomacy

By: Moniza Khokhar

Sheikha Lulu Al Sabah is a visionary who has found the combination of diplomacy and art to be quite impactful. As a member of the Kuwaiti royal family, the Sheikha has made it a point to promote art by Western artists within the region as well as to highlight Middle Eastern artists abroad through her art advisory group called JAMM. We got a chance to speak to the Sheikha.

Elan: Can you tell us a little about your professional background?

Sheikha Lulu Al Sabah: My first job after college was working for the International Herald Tribune in Paris. I began at the very bottom, as support staff. After two years I went on to pursue a Masters in Social and Cultural History from Birkbeck College, University of London. Subsequently, I began to write for various publications such as the Eastern Art Report and Canvas, a magazine dedicated to art and culture in the Middle East. In 2006, I worked as a consultant for Christie’s. In late 2007, I became Director of the Middle East for Phillips de Pury and Company. In 2009, I established my own company, JAMM.

Elan: How did you become interested in the art scene in the Middle East?

Sheikha LS: In 2005 I authored a special edition of the Eastern Art Report dedicated to the art and artists in Kuwait. In conducting so many interviews and studio visits, I began to appreciate the talent we have in our own region. The contemporary art market in the Middle East soared in 2006/2007, as did my commitment in helping this market grow.

Elan: You are founder and partner at JAMM, can you tell us a little about your venture?

Sheikha LS: JAMM is an independent art advisory. Our main activities include exhibitions, auctions and events. Since 2009, we have held exhibitions in London, Kuwait and Dubai. We host an annual auction in Kuwait as well as lectures and educational initiatives. We are committed to the development of the contemporary art market in the Middle East.

Elan: Why was it important for you to link art and diplomacy?

Sheikha LS: We feel it is as important to show Western art in the Middle East as it is to export the art from this region to the West. Not only does this allow for greater understanding and tolerance but it also increases the opportunities for greater collaboration.

Elan: What has been your greatest challenge?

Sheikha LS: My greatest challenge has been to obtain sponsorship from local Kuwaiti companies. My hope is that more companies in Kuwait will see the benefits of lending their support towards artistic and cultural initiatives.

Elan: What advice would you give to aspiring artists?

Sheikha LS: To be authentic and true to yourself so as to develop your own unique style rather than emulate current trends.

For more information visit: www.jamm-art.com