Abu Dhabi Art: 7 Must-See Exhibitions and Highlights
The five-day celebration of creativity and culture unveils a dazzling array of exhibitions from local and international galleries
Abu Dhabi Art is back! The annual art fair, which takes place from November 22–26, 2023 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, marks the pinnacle of the emirate’s year-round visual arts programme, bringing international galleries and local arts together quite like no other event. Before you embark on a visual odyssey this weekend, Bazaar Arabia shares our list of must-see artists, galleries and experiences at Abu Dhabi Art here.
Samo Shalaby – Beyond Emerging Artists
Samo Shalaby, an Egyptian-Palestinian artist and a key participant in the Beyond Emerging Artists programme, reveals a mesmerising body of work that effortlessly transcends conventional boundaries. His exhibition, an unforgettable experience that left attendees in awe, is a testament to the power of his craft. Prepare to engage your senses as Samo’s work beckons you to linger, promising a mesmerizing journey you won’t want to end.
For more information and inquiries, visit samoshalaby.com.
Hazem Harb – Tabari Artspace Gallery
Renowned Palestinian visual artist Hazem Harb introduces his latest collection, Dystopia Is Not a Noun, with Tabari Artspace at Abu Dhabi Art. Serving as an act of resistance and poignant documentation of the Palestinian experience, these new works created during a time of profound pain, mark Hazem’s return to charcoal on paper after over a decade. The intentional use of charcoal in this series carries profound significance, as the black carbon dust resonates with the stark reality settling upon his homeland, Gaza. Harb’s interplay of form and substance goes beyond the canvas, encouraging viewers to delve into the deeper layers of his artistic expression.
For more information and inquiries, visit tabariartspace.com
National Multiple Sclerosis Society Installation
In collaboration with Dirwaza Curatorial Lab founder Munira Al Sayegh and Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, vice chair of the National MS Society Board of Trustees, artist Maitha Al Omaira presents a commissioned installation, underscoring the society’s dedication to Multiple Sclerosis (MS) awareness.
Entitled How Nature is Constant When the Sun Never Rests, Maitha’s work, part of the Into the Horizon collaborative installation, delves into the abstract connection between the human body and nature. Using alginate as a building block, the installation captures the nuanced journey of individuals living with MS through stages of fauna and flora, employing casts and plaster to mirror the ever-changing dynamics of MS and nature.
For more information, visit nationalmssociety.ae.
House of Artisans – Department of Culture and Tourism
As a valued community partner in this year’s Abu Dhabi Art 2023, the House of Artisans contributes to preserving traditional Emirati handcrafts through an initiative that champions sustainable methods.
Michael Rakowitz – Green Art Gallery Dubai
Renowned Iraqi-American artist Michael Rakowitz brings his extraordinary exhibition to Abu Dhabi Art, titled The Invisible Enemy Should Not Exist. Drawing inspiration from his immigrant background, Michael meticulously reconstructs historic monuments and artifacts from ancient empires that once spanned the Middle East. Employing non-traditional mediums such as paper-mâché crafted from sweet wrappers and food packaging, Michael’s art goes beyond conventional limits, providing a distinctive viewpoint on notions of heritage and identity.
For more information, visit michaelrakowitz.com or gagallery.com/artists/michael-rakowitz
IV Chan, Square Street Gallery – Hong Kong
Based in Hong Kong, artist IV Chan delves into our intricate relationship with our bodies and their inherent functions. Drawing inspiration from Freudian theories, IV employs her transformative artistry to turn what is typically deemed unpleasant and sordid into imaginative and vibrant expressions using textiles and intricately embroidered bead work.
For more information and inquiries, visit iv-chan.com.
Abdus Salaam – THK Gallery South Africa
THK Gallery introduces Abdus Salaam, a self-taught multi-disciplinary artist driven by the influences of natural beauty, ecology, and spirituality. In the collection titled Efflorescence, Abdus showcases sculptures, paintings, and mixed media creations. Each piece within the collection is characterized by intricate detailing, incorporating precious metals and rare stones.
For more information and inquiries, visit abdussalaam.art, thkgallery.com or email [email protected]
How To Get Tickets to Abu Dhabi Art
Abu Dhabi Art is open to the public. Book your free pass at tickets.abudhabiart.ae/booking.html
Lead image courtesy of @samo_shalaby