Shobha Pia Shamdsani

Art Advisor to His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Shobha Pia Shamdsani is also the co-founder of UAE Unlimited – a satellite art platform that supports emerging Emirati and UAE-based artists. Shamdsani has been the platform’s Executive Director since its inception in 2015, and has overseen the successful development and realization of four exhibitions under its auspices. She continues to work closely with HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan to put into effect the organization’s mission, and to widen its scope. As the art advisor to HH Sh Zayed bin Sultan, she carries complete directing responsibility over all aspects of his private collection. In this capacity, she has collaborated with HH Sh Zayed bin Sultan in building an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art from the Middle East and South Asia. Shamdasani’s experience in the visual arts has also often translated into an engagement with large-scale sumptuous interior design projects in Abu Dhabi, where she worked closely with artisan painters, craftsmen, and engineers at various stages of the design and construction process. With experience in London, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi, Shamdsani’s art and culture interests have been shaped by a very diverse set of influences. She remains connected to the international art community through a continual engagement with biennials and art fairs on the global stage.