Katia De Rham On Exactly How To Experience Art Dubai This Weekend

Bazaar Art sits down with art specialist Katia de Rham at The Artisan to discuss highlights from the Art Dubai fair and where to dine when visiting DIFC this weekend

As the first global art fair to be held physically following the pandemic, how is the experience of the fair different to previous years?

The energy is very different, there is a real hunger and appetite to attend. We have international galleries who flew in from all over the world despite the pandemic. They are all very excited to finally have an art fair and a physical presence somewhere. The fact that it is being held in Dubai at this time of the year makes collectors who are coming from abroad really enjoy the city as well as the art at the fair.

How do you feel about Art Dubai moving to DIFC, and what has been the biggest surprise this move has brought about?

I’m really enjoying the new location. It attracts a different crowd that previously didn’t have the time to step out of their offices and go to Madinat in the middle of the day or after work. It also brings new potential buyers located in this area such as people in the finance industry, young collectors and tastemakers that are more established. Some people might need an introduction into the art world and this is a great opportunity for them. The fact that it is in DIFC also makes it so much easier to socialise (with distance) outside of the halls, without leaving the fair destination.

Nima Nabavi presented by The Third Line, Booth B15

From all the participating galleries this year, in your opinion which are the top five to visit?

Firstly, I would say definitely do not miss Perrotin, that came all the way from Paris for the second time at Art Dubai. The Third Line, one of the best galleries in the UAE and a great platform for contemporary Middle Eastern artists. I would also highly recommend Hafez Gallery from Saudi Arabia. Qaswra Hafez has brought some fantastic emerging contemporary artists to Art Dubai. Art fairs are always a great way to be kept in the loop in terms of what goes on in the art world, and I would say Hafez is definitely one for the Middle East.

Also, a gallery that came from Madrid for the first time ever: Albarrán Bourdais; they have a wonderful booth with talented artists, which I did not know about, so it’s always great to discover new artists. Finally, I would say do not miss the ‘modern section’ of Art Dubai. You do want to keep an eye on what is up and coming, but you also want to check out the masters who play an important part of art history.

JR presented by Perrotin Gallery, Booth B7

Which artists would you say are ones to keep an eye on in the future?

In terms of Lebanese masters, take a close look at Etel Adnan, who was brought by Sfeir-Semler Gallery from Beirut. For Middle Eastern artists, keep an eye out on Safwan Dahoul presented by Ayyam Gallery this year.

As well as JR’s photography of The Louvre at Perrotin, such an amazing photographer and artist. Xavier Veilhan, he designed a yellow human-sized sculpture – he is known for musical sculptures but this year, he came with a twist. I would also say, do not miss the sculptural installation by Rachid Koraïchi which is located outside of the tents. Take a look at the sculptural park, they did such an amazing job.

Rachid Koraichi, presented by El Marsa Gallery, Booth A11

How should first-time or small collectors approach the fair?

They should register online on the Art Dubai app and get their entry pass. If interested, ask for a tour. Do not be afraid to get in touch with the organisers – Art Dubai has multiple people at your disposal who are very approachable. I would highly encourage a private tour or even a group tour.

Above: Katia de Rham

Which works are your top three highlights from this year?

I don’t usually pay that much attention to the sculptural park but I would definitely highlight Rachid Koraïchi’s sculptures outside of the fair, where you have a series of 20 to 25 sculptures. These are definitely a highlight this year, as well as JR’s photography of the Louvre Paris at Perrotin. He did a very nice photography installation all around the external part of the Louvre last year. He asked 400 volunteers to come and pick up each piece of the photograph that they could then take home.

Lastly, The Third Line gallery booth have a wonderful piece by Nima Nabavi, a young Iranian contemporary artist who playfully focuses on geometric abstraction and numeric symbolism. The closer you get, the more mesmerising they are.  And if I can add another one, I would definitely want to highlight a stunning piece by Baya Mahieddine – an Algerian master represented by Elmarsa Gallery. Did you know Picasso was strongly influenced by her? The Sharjah Art Foundation is also showing a stunning retrospective on her work at the moment.

Where have you been dining during Art Dubai this week and why?

I’ve recently discovered The Artisan, and I really loved bringing guests here to discover the space because it has a sense of intimacy and I feel transported into an Italian trattoria, where you have real Italian food, great service and a warm welcome. Plus, it feels very discrete and a great spot for lunch or dinner meetings. artdubai.ae

Lead image: The Artisan located in the Waldorf Astoria in DIFC featuring art works from Hunt Slonem, presented by Cuadro Fine Art Gallery