Shamma Al Bastaki is a celebrated poet and cultural creator from Dubai, known for her unique blend of ethnopoetry, storytelling, and visual art. Her work draws deeply from the oral histories and traditions of Dubai Creek, offering a contemporary yet rooted expression of Emirati heritage. Through poetry and photography, Shamma preserves culture while making it relevant to modern audiences.
Shamma’s poetry is more than artistic expression—it’s a cultural archive. Her verses are inspired by the voices, memories, and rituals of local communities. By transforming these narratives into lyrical works, she not only tells stories but also revives traditions that might otherwise fade. Her ethnopoetic approach bridges generations, making history accessible and emotionally resonant.
In addition to poetry, Shamma incorporates photography to capture the spirit of Dubai’s landscapes and its people. Her images complement her words, adding texture and depth to the stories she tells. The combination of visual and verbal artistry creates immersive experiences that invite audiences to feel, reflect, and connect with their cultural roots.
Shamma’s work is not only artistically rich but also academically valued. Her research and creative projects are recognized for preserving oral histories and contributing to cultural studies. Her ethnopoetry serves as both a scholarly resource and an artistic exploration, highlighting the significance of storytelling in shaping identity and memory.
What makes Shamma’s work exceptional is her ability to weave tradition with contemporary art forms. She celebrates heritage without romanticizing it, embracing both the beauty and complexity of cultural narratives. Her work resonates with audiences seeking meaning, connection, and pride in local heritage.
Shamma Al Bastaki is a powerful voice in the world of ethnopoetry and cultural storytelling. Through poetry, photography, and research, she preserves the oral histories of Dubai Creek and invites audiences to explore their cultural identity with depth and emotion. Her creative work stands as a bridge between past and present—an inspiring testament to the enduring power of stories.
1. Who is Shamma Al Bastaki?
She is a Dubai-born poet and cultural creator known for blending ethnopoetry, storytelling, and photography rooted in local heritage.
2. What is ethnopoetry?
Ethnopoetry combines poetry with cultural narratives and oral histories to preserve traditions and express collective memories.
3. How does she use photography in her work?
She complements her poetry with images that capture the landscapes, people, and atmosphere of Dubai’s heritage.
4. Why is her work academically recognized?
Her creative projects contribute to cultural research by documenting and preserving oral histories and traditions.
5. What makes her storytelling unique?
She merges tradition with contemporary art forms, creating emotionally resonant and culturally rich narratives.
