Art-themed brunches have become a popular trend in Dubai, offering a unique experience that combines fine dining with artistic expression. Artists like Ekaterina Molostova and Gemma Gallagher have spearheaded this trend, curating events that allow guests to indulge in both delicious food and creative activities. Ekaterina, a Russian artist, moved to Dubai with the dream of becoming a full-time artist and now organizes art-themed brunches to connect people through creativity. Gemma, an Irish artist, founded ‘Design & Dine’ brunches in 2015 with the vision of making painting workshops as common as fitness classes.
These art-themed brunches have gained popularity for their interactive and social nature, providing a space for people to express themselves creatively. Ekaterina and Gemma emphasize that their events are welcoming to everyone, regardless of artistic skill level. The events have attracted a diverse group of attendees, including beginners and experienced artists, who enjoy the therapeutic and social aspects of creating art in a relaxed setting. Participants like Maryam Noor and Zeenath Javeria have found these events to be both relaxing and inspiring, offering a therapeutic escape from the stresses of daily life.
The success of art-themed brunches like ‘Design & Dine’ has been attributed to their ability to foster connections and build a community. Gemma recalls a corporate event where 500 people collaborated on a massive artwork, showcasing the power of art to bring people together. The events have been praised for their inclusivity and approachability, with attendees like Charlie Lockhart noting that the experience goes beyond dining to create lasting memories. Gemma’s vision of bringing art into social settings has resonated with participants, proving that art can be accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
As art-themed brunches continue to grow in popularity, Ekaterina and Gemma are excited about the future. Gemma’s ‘Design & Dine’ events have expanded internationally, reaching locations like the UK, Ireland, and New York. Meanwhile, Ekaterina is focused on introducing new materials and techniques to her events to keep them engaging and fresh. Both artists are optimistic about the future of art-themed brunches in the UAE, seeing them as a fun and creative way for people to escape their routines and reconnect with their artistic sides. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, these brunches offer a welcoming space to explore your creativity and enjoy a unique dining experience.