Banafsajeel is a social enterprise and curating platform dedicated to fostering appreciation for art and design in the Gulf. The organisation develops creative collaborations for select artists and designers, hence its name which translates from the Arabic phrase“بنَفَس جيل” or “in the spirit of a generation”. Started in 2014, Banafsajeel researches, develops and runs programs and learning experiences that facilitate dialogue and build a creative movement with social value.

Working around a different theme each year, Banafsajeel celebrates excellence in art and design by curating an annual group exhibition in partnership with leading art institutions and creative organisations in the Gulf. Last year’s theme Flow  kicked off with an interactive installation in Dubai in January 2016,  and culminated in a contemporary art exhibition in Jeddah in February 2017. Banafsajeel’s theme for 2017-2018 is Leap.

Based between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Banafsajeel also offers private consulting services within the creative industries and cultural sector. Clients and collectors are considered on a case-by-case basis. To commission a project, please get in touch.