Art for Change: Meet the Judges for Middle East & Africa

The 2024 theme, ‘Tomorrow’ing: Visions of a better future’, invites emerging artists to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues and act as a beacon of hope in the pursuit of a better tomorrow.

Six winners from around the world will be decided by some of the best business and creative minds from the M&C Saatchi Group globally and eminent guest judges. 

In this Art for Change series, we hear from our regional judges. Find out what makes them tick artistically, why this year’s theme is so critical, and what they are looking for in our winners

Introducing M&C Saatchi's judges for Middle East & Africa: Ayman Zedani, visual artist, curator and filmmaker, Ryan Reed, chief creative officer, M&C Saatchi UAE, Robert Grace, founding partner and chief strategy officer, M&C Saatchi Group South Africa

Q> An alien lands on earth and asks you to explain your job. What would you say?

Ayman> I am not sure, and I have so many questions about the encounter.

Ryan> I help connect brands to culture using creative storytelling and technology.

Robert> I try to understand people, maybe that’s why you’re also here?

Q> Is there a piece of work that you believe has changed the game in your industry?

Ayman> A painting by the late artist Fatima Abou Gahas which helped amplify the awareness of a slowly disappearing traditional painting called Al-Qatt Al-Asiri. In 2017, this art form was recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Her work not only showcased the beauty of this art form but also brought attention to the need for its preservation.

Ryan> Dove Real Beauty. A changemaking platform redefining beauty standards that empowers women of all shapes, sizes, ages and ethnicities.

It’s had ripples across the entire beauty industry and helped shape legislation with regards to how beauty is portrayed in media.

Robert> Many pieces. But probably the one that 20 years kicked-off a timeless thought, that is still timely today and has spread around the world is Dove’s Real Beauty brand idea.

Q> What inspired you to join the judging panel for this year’s Art for Change Prize?

Ayman> The theme truly resonated with me. I believe art has the power to spark important conversations and inspire action. I'm excited to see how emerging artists envision a brighter future and be a part of recognising their talent.

Ryan> I wanted to be inspired by new perspectives from creatives outside the confines of our industry. Diverse thinkers interpreting and tackling change. Art, in all its forms, connects emotionally and forces us to feel rather than think. We tend to act more on feeling and I’m looking forward to seeing what this year unlocks.

Robert> Curiosity. Artists bring new ideas and perspectives, the very thing that will take us forward.

Q> If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be?

Ayman> This is a tough one! I need to think about it.

Ryan> Banksy. His anonymous activism and satirical street art connects with culture in a way that’s brutally simple and powerful. It’s accessible. His gallery is the streets and trouble spots of the world. His message is political and social change painted onto walls, transmitted globally on social. Genius.

Robert> Es Devlin – the artist and stage designer. Her work frames, reflects, elevates, transforms.

Q> This year’s prize theme is ‘Tomorrow’ing: Visions of a better future’. What do you hope to see from the entries?

Ayman> I hope to see entries that are not only visually stunning but also thought-provoking. Art that challenges us to imagine a better future.

Ryan> Diversity of thinking, perspectives, insights and executions around the challenge of our exciting but fragile future.

Robert> Work that evocates a response in the here and now as to what the future holds.

Q> Why do you believe it is important for society to support and invest in the arts?

Ayman> The arts are a fundamental part of what makes us human. They allow us to express ourselves, explore complex ideas, and connect with something larger than ourselves.

Ryan> Art holds up a mirror to the world and if we don’t like what we see it helps shape the world we want to create. Art challenges us to look past rational thought or hard facts and connects in a more tangible and meaningful way. It hits the heart. An emotional connection to a challenge is an excellent catalyst for making change.

Robert> Artists, and art, are hope. And the world needs a lot of that right now.

Q> What advice would you give to someone thinking about entering this year’s prize?

Ayman> To be true to your vision and use your art to explore the theme of the liveability of the future in a way that is unique to you, your locality, and your heritage. Don't be afraid to experiment and push boundaries.

Ryan> Don’t think about it. Enter. Add your beautiful chapter to the guidebook on the future.

Robert> Bring your true, authentic voice.

Q> What does ‘Art for Change’ mean to you?

Ayman> Art for Change means using art as a catalyst for positive change. It's about art that raises awareness and inspires people to make a difference in the world. Great art doesn't just reflect the world, it shapes it.

Ryan> Art is an important vehicle for revolution. It moves people to action more than any medium or channel, and it’s bravery, openness and honesty is vital for creating meaningful change.

Robert> Opportunity. For both the artist and the audience.