DIFC and Art Dubai 2008 team up with the Jam Jar to Sponsor the Art Bus

Launched in March 2007, for the week of the DIFC Gulf Art Fair (now Art Dubai) and Creek Contemporary Art Fair, the Art Bus served as a convoy of dedicated vehicles that linked key event venues and prominent art galleries in Dubai. Once again this March, it promises to play a key role in promoting the arts with guided tours of the city’s art galleries and fairs. “DIFC and Art Dubai are delighted to be associated with this unique initiative which provides art lovers and tourists the perfect opportunity to explore the wealth of art projects taking place during the Art Dubai week,” said John Martin, Fair Director & co-founder. Hetal Pawani, Director of The Jam Jar described the concept of the Art Bus as a novel, enchanting and convenient way to take in the sights and sounds of Dubai during the action-packed international art fair, Art Dubai (Public Days- 20-22 March 2008). "We have organised a fleet of luxury vehicles that will run on pre-set routes and as per a scheduled timetable taking resident art lovers, visitors and student groups to exciting art spots in Dubai.” "We have had two motives in developing this concept - to make a meaningful contribution to UAE’s vibrant and burgeoning cultural palette, and in offering residents and visitors an unprecedented treat," she explained. Pawani said that people wishing to travel to and from the numerous venues on the route, could save themselves the hassles involved in overcoming traffic, finding parking, and adhering to a schedule, for a small fee, and involving much fun. Additional perks include the unique Art Map locating and describing various places of interest both on route and other. The Art Map is a unique map created to raise awareness about all the artistic and cultural points across the UAE. Its focus is to highlight every local art gallery, their exhibitions, events and activities, as well as any local and international art fairs taking place in the UAE. The Art Map’s primary targets are the U.A.E’s culturally curious residents and tourists. It serves not only as a location guide, but also as a calendar of all the art shows and major art fairs in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Pawani says that individuals availing of the service can learn a lot about art in the region, simply by boarding the Art Bus. "The Art Bus is not merely restricted to art aficionados; just about anyone – college students, art teachers, visitors or other interested individuals can board the tour, for an initiation and first-hand experience of art in the UAE. Our guides are friendly and trained, and will provide pertinent information before they reach their destinations," she stated. Art Dubai is held under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, Ruler of Dubai