The Forgotten Ceremony Installation Is Set To Celebrate The Pre-Islamic Tribes of AlUla
Honouring Middle Eastern heritage in one of the most beautiful exhibition venues in the world, Sarah Brahim and Ugo Schiavi’s installation at the upcoming Art Paris blends modern mastery with ancient history
After four years of renovations, Paris’ iconic Grand Palais has been restored to its former glory. The Art Paris fair is set to return to the historic site for its 27th edition from April 3-6, with a strong line-up of 170 galleries. The upcoming iteration focuses on French figurative painting, intercultural perspectives and debuts the hotly anticipated French Design Art Edition, celebrating design and contemporary decorative arts.
A tribute to Middle Eastern heritage curated by Wejdan Reda and Arnaud Morand, a key installation revealed during this year’s fair will be NEUMA, The Forgotten Ceremony by artists Sarah Brahim and Ugo Schiavi. Of Saudi and American descent, Sarah is known for her evocative explorations of the body and its experiences. The collaborative installation at Art Paris pays homage to the ritual practices of the pre-Islamic tribes of AlUla, and has been brought to life through in-depth research and close collaboration with archaeologists and local communities.
Noting inspiration from the breathtaking beauty and heritage of AlUla – the growing cultural heartbeat of the Kingdom – the showcase of sculptures, videos and photographic works spectacularly unravels ancient history through a modern eye. “In AlUla, a 21st-century utopia is emerging, bringing with it a host of questions and reflections,” says Arnaud Morand, co-curator of NEUMA, The Forgotten Ceremony. “The unique intelligence of art can and must serve as a catalyst, steering us in the right direction. This inaugural programme lays the foundations for Villa Hegra: a modular, multidisciplinary and generous institution, deeply anchored in its territory, its heritage, and its people. It also celebrates the power of ideas and reconnects with the spiritual dimension inherent in understanding this context – this is the philosophy behind NEUMA, The Forgotten Ceremony.”
Also of note is the inaugural French Design Art Edition, a brand-new sector dedicated to design. A collaborative project between Le FRENCH DESIGN directors Jean-Paul Bath and Sandy Saad, the initiative will come to life on the north balconies of the Grand Palais Nave, within a stunning exhibition space designed by architects Jakob + MacFarlane. Exquisite craftsmanship and creativity will highlight the influence of traditional artisanship on contemporary creation, blurring the boundaries between art and design. Visitors can expect an immersive exchange between function, form and experimentation.
Placing a special focus on women artists, Art Paris has also introduced Her Art Prize in collaboration with Marie Claire and Boucheron, an initiative launched to celebrate female talent. The prestigious award will be granted to an exhibiting artist who is redefining creative boundaries.
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From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia Interior’ Spring 2025 Issue.