The Stellar Programme is an educational initiative established in 2019 by UAE Unlimited, as part of their ongoing commitment to emerging art and artists in the United Arab Emirates. The Stellar Programme is an engaging, 6-8 month course for the exhibiting artists of UAE Unlimited, comprised of mentorships sessions, guest artist tutorship and practical workshops. The aim of the programme is to further the artist’s education within the world of contemporary art and to provide them with knowledge that cannot be obtained through traditional art school curricula.

The Stellar Programme is arranged with three main sections, which all run concurrently alongside the planning and production of the exhibition. These three distinct aspects to the Stellar Programme were conceived by Shobha Pia Shamsdani, developed over time and curated in direct response to the artist’s needs. 
Rokni, Ramin & Hesam art practice advisers give guidance session
The first segment is the mentorship of that particular years guest-artist; who guides the artists using real-world experiences on their proposals and production planning in uniquely timed sessions through the 6-8 month period. These invaluable sessions are extensive in nature, exploring the artist’s understanding of the theme, forming their concepts, developing their proposal and executing the artwork in its final form. 

Key sessions held with the Dubai-based artist collective Rokni and Ramin Haerizadeh, and Hesam Rhamanian, make up the second component of the Stellar Programme and run alongside the exhibition planning and production in order to maximise the artists potential. In these intensive conversations, held at the artists’ atelier, the exhibiting artists gain invaluable knowledge of art theory and criticism, as well as critique on their concepts and research practices and overall art practice. The trio give invaluable advice and feedback on the exhibiting artists' concepts and advise them on technique and approach. 

Profressional writing workshop with Jolaine Frizell
Professional photography workshop with Ayaad Damouni at Capitol D Studio
The third component of the programme is made up of four specifically designed day-long workshops, where the exhibiting artists learn a new key skill to help their creative development. Four passionate leading arts professionals from the UAE cover the subjects; focusing on artwork photography and colour grading, media relations, art writing and art business.

The Stellar Programme is led by passionate and engaging tutors, advisors and artists; and gives exhibiting artists the tools and techniques to excel not only in the UAE Unlimited exhibition, but also towards their future as professional practising artists. 

Business of art workshop with Meagan Kelly Horsman
Dana Awartani mentor session