Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid on Saturday visited Dubai Canvas where he praised the progress of the UAE's cultural scene.
During his visit to the annual 3-D art festival, the Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said viewed the murals and said that art represents a form of communication that goes beyond language and breaks down cultural barriers.
He said such projects and events that blend themes drawn from Emirati heritage with modern artistic perspectives only help progress the country's cultural environment.
"The cultural landscape in the UAE is witnessing fast-paced developments driven by multi-faceted projects and events that combine the quintessential Emirati culture with modernity, earning the country a distinguished positioning on the world's cultural scene," said Sheikh Mohammed, who also said that the development of art mirrors the development of the society.
Sheikh Mohammed toured the festival and viewed the artwork exhibited at the beachfront district La Mer, Jumeirah.
Art from more than 30 international artists from around the world are on show until March 7.
Sheikh Mohammed spoke with some of the participating artists, which include more than 30 women students from Zayed University. The students thanked him for his support for creativity.
The festival, first launched in 2015, includes live 3-D demonstrations, workshops, live music and film screenings among other activities.