02
Second Position
Overview
Modern Heritage – Interpreted your way
DAACH 2027 (Design, Art, Architecture, Culture & Modern Heritage) is an art competition inspired by the theme Modern Heritage in the UAE. Whether you're an artist, designer, student or simply someone with a creative spark, this is your opportunity to explore what the UAE’s modern heritage means to you. You can draw inspiration from its rich traditions, cultural diversity, iconic architecture or the way its past and present come together.
Your creative journey could take you to a three-day exhibition and community celebration, where selected artworks will be showcased to the public. You’ll have the opportunity to share your creativity with a wider audience, connect with fellow artists and be part of a celebration of art, design and culture. A panel of judges will evaluate the shortlisted artworks, select winners across different categories and announce them during the event.
Competition is open to:
Prizes & recognition
Stay Tuned - Exciting Prizes will be revealed soon!
Let your vision be seen, your story be heard, and your creativity become part of a larger celebration of art, design and culture.
01
First Position
The highest DAACH distinction.
03
Third Position
A place among the standout voices.
Put your work on display
Selected entries become part of a public exhibition seen by the campus community, invited guests and visitors.
Be seen by creative professionals
Your work is reviewed by artists and practitioners who understand the creative process and the chosen medium.
Build your creative journey
Use the experience to strengthen your portfolio, broaden your exposure and take your next creative step with greater confidence.
Add your voice to the UAE story
Interpret unity, community, culture and modern heritage through a perspective that is distinctly your own.
Your Path to Enter the Competition
Categories & Permitted Mediums
Participate through the category that matches your stage of life.
01 · Competition Categories & Themes
- Grade 1-2
- Grade 3-5
- Grade 6-8
- Grade 9-10
- Grade 11-12
- University Students
- Open Public (all other than school/university individuals)
02 · Permitted Mediums
A
Young Creators
Drawing, painting, illustration, collage, mixed media, photography, visual narratives, digital artwork, models and craft-based creations.
B
Emerging Creators
Drawing, painting, illustration, photography, visual narratives, collage, mixed media, digital artwork, architectural and interior representations, models, designed objects and products.
C
Community & Artists
Drawing, painting, illustration, photography, collage, mixed media, digital artwork and prints, craft, sculpture, objects, models, multimedia artworks and installations.
Ready to enter?
Submit your work.
Please ensure that all information provided is accurate and that you have read and understood the Terms & Conditions before submitting your entry.
Applicable only if you are a student.
Artist · UAE
Shrutika Gosavi
Shrutika Gosavi, born in India in 1987, is a Dubai-based multidisciplinary artist residing in the UAE since 2011. Her intuitive practice explores connections between the human body, nature, spirituality, identity and perception. Through her work, she examines how the external world shapes human behavior, emotions, physical form and personal experiences.
Architect & Founder - IRD Design
Indu Varanasi
Indu Varanasi is an award-winning architect and founder of IRD Design, a Dubai-based interior architecture and commercial design studio established in 2004. Guided by her philosophy of Design Consciousness, she creates sustainable, human-centric spaces across hospitality, retail and workplaces, delivering projects throughout the UAE, GCC, India, China, Europe and East Africa.
Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Design Infinity, Dubai
Geetha Nayak
Geetha Nayak is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Design Infinity, a leading UAE interior design and fit-out company. With over 25 years of experience in interior design, project management and fit-out, she is recognized for her expertise, leadership and commitment to delivering exceptional interior spaces across diverse projects and sectors.
Paper Artist · UAE
Masarratfatima Sulaimani
Masarratfatima is an innovative paper artist who blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistic expression. Her intricate hand-cut creations draw inspiration from nature, architecture and Islamic aesthetics. Through delicate forms and thoughtful compositions, she transforms simple paper into meaningful artworks, exploring creativity, cultural heritage and the beauty of intricate artistic details.
Same Criteria across all Categories
Evaluation Criteria & Rubrics
All entries are evaluated against the same four core criteria, with category-specific rubrics ensuring fair assessment. To review the detailed rubrics, please download the document below.
01
Criteria 01
Concept & Originality
Uniqueness of idea, depth of thought and the personal narrative or perspective behind the work.
02
Criteria 02
Execution & Technique
Craftsmanship, effort and controlled use of the chosen medium, material or technology.
03
Criteria 03
Composition & Visual Impact
Deliberate arrangement of space, form, balance and visual elements into a cohesive whole.
04
Criteria 04
Thematic & Cultural Alignment
How effectively the work interprets unity, community and the Spirit of the Emirates.
The DAACH experience
Your Journey & Timeline
The journey is designed to be clear from the moment you submit your work through to the public exhibition and closing celebration.
Step 01
Submit your work digitally
Complete your entry online and upload your work by 31 December 2026.
Step 02
Wait for shortlisting
Entries move through originality screening, internal shortlisting and final jury review.
Step 03
Receive your selection update
Selected artists are planned to be notified by 15 January 2027 and invited to move to the exhibition stage.
Step 04
Prepare for exhibition
Physical delivery is required only if selected, by the date communicated in the selection notification.
Step 05
Attend DAACH
Join us on 28, 29 & 30 January 2027 for an inspiring celebration of creativity, featuring art exhibitions, interactive workshops, community participation and a grand awards ceremony, bringing together artists, jury members, partners and the wider community.
Three days of DAACH.
Join Us for the Grand Finale
From the opening exhibition to the final awards, each day adds a different layer to the DAACH experience.
Opening & Exhibition
DAACH opens with its inaugural programme and the first public viewing of selected work.
Opening
Inaugural / opening ceremony
DAACH officially opens with participating artists, jury members, guests and visitors.
Exhibition
Jury exhibition & pitching starts
Selected work across all four entrant tracks goes on display.
Panel Discussion
Panel Discussion between Industry Experts
Be a part of an insightful discussion which can shape your narrative towards Modern Heritage.
The original event framework confirms the exhibition, workshops, public voting, interactive zones and finale activities.
Sponsors & collaborators
Partners who help bring DAACH to life.
Gallery
The DAACH Gallery.
Selected work can live beyond the physical exhibition through a digital showcase.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions.
Who can participate in DAACH 2027?
DAACH 2027 is open to participants across three categories:
- Young Creators - School Students
- Emerging Creators - University Students
- Community & Artists - Artists and members of the wider community
Participants must select the category that best matches their eligibility.
What is the theme of DAACH 2027?
The theme for DAACH 2027 is Modern Heritage of the UAE – Interpreted Your Way. Participants are encouraged to creatively explore, question and reinterpret modern heritage through their own artistic perspectives and expressions.
What is the last date for registration and artwork submission?
31 December 2026
Will submitted artworks be exhibited or published by DAACH?
Selected artworks may be featured in DAACH exhibitions, publications, digital platforms and promotional materials, subject to the consent and usage provisions outlined in the Terms & Conditions.
Are there specific artwork sizes, formats or submission requirements?
Yes. Each participation category has its own eligible mediums and submission specifications. Participants should carefully review the relevant category guidelines before preparing their artwork.
How will I know if I am selected?
Shortlisted participants will be notified via official communication from the organizers.
Can I attend DAACH 2027 without participating in the competition?
DAACH is more than a competition. Visitors can experience the exhibitions, creative workshops and community activities. Event access, registration requirements and workshop availability will be communicated through the official DAACH website.
When will the DAACH 2027 final event take place?
The DAACH 2027 final event is scheduled for 28, 29 and 30 January 2027, featuring exhibitions, creative workshops, community participation and an awards celebration.
Are there prizes for the winners?
Yes. DAACH 2027 will recognise outstanding creative submissions across its participation categories. Details of prizes and awards will be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates.
How will my artwork be evaluated?
All submissions will be evaluated against four common criteria, with category-specific assessment rubrics to ensure fair evaluation based on the participants' skill levels and expectations. The detailed evaluation rubrics are available for download on the website.
Can I submit more than one artwork?
Participants should refer to the official DAACH Terms & Conditions for the permitted number of entries and any category-specific submission restrictions.
Do students need an endorsement letter to participate?
Yes. School and university students must upload an endorsement letter signed and stamped by their respective educational institution. The endorsement letter template can be downloaded from the website after completing the required details.
How can I register and submit my artwork?
Visit the official DAACH 2027 webpage, select your participation category and complete the online submission form. Upload your artwork and the required supporting documents before submitting your entry.
What types of artwork can I submit?
Participants can submit artwork in any of the eligible mediums listed under their respective category. Submissions using just one applicable medium are also accepted. Please refer to the category guidelines for the complete list.
How can I contact organizers?
Please send an email to soda@manipaldubai.com
Is there a registration or participation fee?
No