Images by: Shirin Neshat & Y.Z. Kami

Magic of Persia’s fundraiser for 2009, Magical Nights in Dubai, will take place on Saturday 11th of April and Sunday 12th of April 2009. The highlight of the events as always will be the grand Gala and Contemporary Iranian Art Auction on Saturday 11th April 2009 at the Emirates Towers in Dubai, when guests will have the pleasure of receiving an address from His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mubarak Al Nahayan, who is an ardent supporter of Magic of Persia.

Funds raised during the auction gala will benefit the Magic of Persia education programme, the Future Centre for special needs, and Omid-e-Mehr charitable foundation. There will be an auction preview of the art from Monday 6th to Thursday 9th April at B21 and Total Arts Galleries in Dubai.

Guests can also look forward to a celebrity line-up. Maz Jobrani, Iranian-American comedian, will be this year’s Master of Ceremonies and Gerard Senehi aka The Experimentalist promises to deliver a mind-blowing performance.

Most importantly, Jussi Pylkkänen, President of Christie’s Middle East and Europe, will oversee the auction of magnificent artworks which have been created by generous leading lights from the contemporary Iranian art scene.

On Sunday 12th April 2009 there will be a VIP evening for all the artists, sponsors, buyers, Magic of Persia’s Trustees and guests who have traveled from abroad to attend the Auction Gala.

The cost of tickets for this event is USD $375.

All funds raised shall ensure the continuity of Magic of Persia’s invaluable projects, designed to provide a lasting contribution to the future development of Iranian art and culture.

***

For further information please Contact Magic of Persia:

Tel: 02072358026

Fax: 02072596417

Email: info@magicofpersia.com

Funds raised during this event will benefit:

Magic of Persia Education Programme Magic of Persia, in partnership with major institutions and museums, is committed to developing youth focused education programmes, gallery visits, workshops and Persian family days. Magic of Persia is launching the first Contemporary Iranian Art Prize, a global prize intended to recognise and reward talented and emerging Iranian artists. The prize will contribute to the advancement of Iranian art and culture worldwide.

Omid E Mehr Charitable Foundation Established in 2004 as a privately-funded charity, Omid E Mehr aims at providing emotional and practical support for severely disadvantaged young Iranian and Afghani women (aged from 15 to 25) in Tehran. These women face emotional and financial deprivation, are desperately vulnerable to anti-social influences, and struggle to remain engaged in society.

The Future Centre for Special Needs, Abu Dhabi The Future Centre for Special Needs in Abu Dhabi is an institution dedicated to providing relevant education programmes and rehabilitation services to more than 170 students with special needs. The Future Centre is committed to equip individuals with disabilities with necessary knowledge and skills. Enabling them to realise their full potential, and lead fulfilling and joyful lives.