Mayor's introduction

Arab culture has exerted a significant influence in the world over the centuries. More recently in 2011 political and social developments in the region have understandably come to dominate international news coverage. This festival, therefore, could not be more timely in giving us a window through which to see contemporary Arab culture and some of the finest artists working in the area today. Shubbak offers a diverse feast of visual arts, film, theatre, dance, poetry, music and architecture.

Thanks to the support of HSBC, which is sponsoring Shubbak, we have been able to programme in over seventy events across many of London’s prestigious cultural organisations during the three weeks of the festival.

Shubbak is an opportunity to see the world through new eyes and to strengthen the relations between artists in London and across the Arab world. It also celebrates the influence of London’s significant Arab population in our city today, and demonstrates the importance of London as a capital of international cultural exchange.

No doubt this festival will challenge many people’s preconceived ideas about Arab culture and help illuminate the influence of the past as well as aspirations amongst Arabs for the future. It will also bring fresh visitors to a range of organisations. I am certain that the artists being shown will surprise, delight and stimulate new audiences, and encourage them to think again about what it means to be an Arab today.

Boris Johnson
Mayor of London
4 July 2011