Last night, international
law firm Stephenson Harwood LLP marked the first anniversary of
the launch of its Dubai office, by hosting an art exhibition and gala reception
at the newly opened Conrad Hotel. The
event provided the perfect platform to announce the launch of Stephenson
Harwood's 2014 charity partnership with START, non-profit organisation that
provides art education to oprhans, refugees and speical needs children across
the Middle East and India.
The gala reception, based on 'a celebration of art' theme, also included an
exhibition by internationally acclaimed Dubai based artist Hesham Malik, for guests
attending the evening.
The firm's
Dubai office opened in order to offer support to Stephenson Harwood clients with
interests in the Middle East. The office provides a range of legal services
that includes corporate/commercial, dispute resolution, finance, marine and
international trade, and sanctions advice.
Rovine Chandrasekera, commercial litigation partner and
head of the Dubai office, said: "Our first year in Dubai has seen us successfully
grow our team, develop our network in the region, and expand the support we can
offer our client base. We look forward to further growth over the coming
years."
“We are very grateful for the
support of Stephenson Harwood and we look forward to working together over the
next year to help underprivileged children.” – Tanaz Dizadji, START Director
Commenting on the anniversary exhibition, artist Hesham Malik said: "Artists
create fine pieces of work. However, without legal protection, the origin, ownership and
creativity of art can be disputed – devaluing a piece. It is within this
scenario that a link a formed between art and law and Stephenson Harwood has particular
expertise in this area, representing artists, investors and art owners across
the world."
Since 1828, Stephenson Harwood has
acted for a diverse range of clients across the international art and cultural
objects market. Core clients include high profile institutions and companies
including one of the world’s leading auction houses, the Society of London Art
Dealers and a number of its prominent members, the Royal College of Art and
national governments and other institutions and heritage organisations. The
firm also represents artists, brokers, charities, collectors, conservators,
trusts and families. Highly ranked in the Legal 500 directory 2013, the firm is
described as “one of the very best with an unrivalled knowledge of auction law”
and “a class act”.
