UK/UAE 2017 debuts British sculptors and Oxford biologists at Think Science

As part of the UK/UAE 2017 initiative the 'Year of Creative Collaboration', the British Council is organising an artistic installation and programme of workshops and talks at Think Science 2017 from 18th - 20th April at Dubai World Trade Centre, a platform for UAE youth designed to develop their knowledge of science and technology. The "Sugar Science" art and science project will bring British architectural sculptors Brendan Jamison and Mark Revels to the UAE for the first time, while University of Oxford professors will give a series of talks providing insight into the wonders of biochemistry.

UK/UAE 2017 is a yearlong festival of cultural exchange between the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates which celebrates the long-standing relationship between the two countries and looks to strengthen existing cultural and economic ties. The programme is supported by the UK Government’s GREAT Britain campaign. Taking place throughout 2017, it includes such events as musical performances, craft showcases, exhibitions, masterclasses, talks and educational workshops.

The Sugar Science project at Think Science consists of a collaborative sculpture installation and a series of six workshops, where students and visitors will work with the artists to explore contemporary city design, architecture, engineering stability and urban planning. Through a fun and playful approach, students will be encouraged to create their own building designs through a 'learning through doing' approach, with Jamison and Revels assisting each participant during one-hour sessions. The resulting creations will be added to the exhibition throughout the weekend.

Also forming part of UK/UAE 2017 is a visit to Think Science by University of Oxford academics Professor Anthony Watts and Dr. Peter Judge, who will be giving talks and hands on demonstrations of biochemistry principles to young scientists, as well as offering advice on degree programmes and admissions to one of the world’s most highly ranked universities. Watts will also be giving an "Open Minds" lecture at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi School on 17th of April, explaining the role light plays in evolution and biology.

Hannah Henderson, Head of UK/UAE 2017, said, "The British Council are delighted to be supporting talks by two of the UK’s brightest scientific minds from the famed Oxford University. In addition to this, bringing architectural sculptors Brendan Jamison and Mark Revels to the UAE will integrate an arts component into the Think Science programming for the first time. Their workshops and interactive exhibition are the perfect cross-pollination of art and science, enabling the Sugar Science project to bring something unique to Think Science audiences."

Clare Woodcraft-Scott, CEO of Emirates Foundation, said, "Emirates Foundation is delighted to partner with the British Council on UAE/UK 2017. Our Think Science programme aims to provide local STEAM, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics, talent the opportunity to learn more about the appliance of science. We want to excite young Emiratis about the prospects of both studying and working in the STEAM sector. We believe that the presence of exceptional British artists, scientists and academics at our event will help excite youth about the opportunity of STEAM and encourage them to pursue a career in this field, in line with the ambitious industrial development plans of the UAE."

Gavin Anderson, Director, British Council UAE, said, "Think Science is a fantastic event and we’re happy to be contributing to their fun and educational programme. Our initiatives are designed to engage the imaginations of the UAE’s future scientists and artists with active learning, and will introduce the young participants to a taste of Britain’s best."