Mercato, one of Dubai’s leading shopping malls, will host an array of art exhibitions, imaginative art workshops and shows as part of activities during the ongoing Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2009.

DSS 2009, a shopping and family entertainment extravaganza, will run in various malls in Dubai until August 14.

Mercato will hold its art festival “Art Fiesta” from July 5 to July 18, kicking off with a painting exhibition entitled “Harmony” by artist Rupali Rao.

This Dubai-based artist will bring colour and excitement into the mall with her beautiful multi-coloured pieces inspired by Dubai’s distinctive locations. The exhibition will be open to the public free of charge during mall hours.

“The DSF (Dubai Shopping Festival) Office lays significant emphasis on organizing, hosting, and supporting events related to art and Art Fiesta is one of the numerous art highlights that DSS visitors can experience this summer,” said Khulood Al Thani, marketing director of DSF Office.

“Such events not only add an element of entertainment to the DSS itinerary but provide a platform for artists to showcase their works. This is very much part of the DSF Office’s efforts in promoting and supporting art initiatives,” she added.

Daily art work shops will also be held on the first floor near the food court.

From 11 am to 1 pm children can participate in all kinds of very interesting creative activities assisted by Rupali Rao - from pastel sketching and air painting to clay modeling, group painting and painting to the beat of music, called “Dancing Fingers”.

Then between 2 pm and 4 pm the Susan Walpole drawing and colouring competitions will be held for all children, with prizes to be won. Prize winners will be given the chance to name the newly designed Susan Walpole camel and handing in the competition entry at the Susan Walpole store, one will receive a discount on camel soft toys.

Throughout the “Art Fiesta” in Mercato, the family fun will continue even more shows and the chance to win a Mercedes Benz CLK, a luxury holiday for four to Cyprus or cash prizes up to Dh5 million ($1.36 million) when spending in any outlet in the mall. – TradeArabia News Service