Visitors to the DIFC will be able to marvel at the panoramic Dubai canvas by world renowned UK artist Stephen Wiltshire; a gifted painter with severe Autism who managed to take a mental snapshot of the city after a mere 30 minute helicopter ride over Dubai.

As part of Dubai’s support for Autism awareness, His Highness Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has met with Stephen and signed the Dubai canvas.

Work on Wiltshire’s latest piece, on display at the DIFC throughout the month of April began on Tuesday when he took a 30-minute helicopter ride from Festival City to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, past The Palm Jumeirah and back along Sheikh Zayed Road.

His Excellency Dr. Omar Bin Sulaiman, Managing Director of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and Governor of the DIFC stated: “April 2 was World Autism Day, but here in Dubai, we are dedicating the entire month of April to spread awareness about what is potentially the most threatening developmental condition for children these days. Stephen is a testament to the fact that sometimes we can make miracles out of mishaps. His eye for detail and incredible retention powers are on display at the DIFC for all to see. The canvas is also a reminder of the power and prowess of a determined man.”

Dubai joins the list of major cities that Stephen has captured on his giant canvases; among other international destinations, he has already recreated panoramas of Tokyo, London and Rome.

His completed sketch of Dubai will be auctioned off to raise money for the Dubai Autism Centre’s new state-of-the-art centre in Garhoud. The money will enable the centre to offer more services to children with Autism and their parents, gradually increasing the current enrolment from 42 to 140 youngsters.