Today's Edition
RAIED SHUQUM (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi will once again become a global hub for contemporary art as it hosts the 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi Art Fair at Manarat Al Saadiyat, from November 20 to 24.
The annual fair is a dynamic platform that brings together artists, galleries, collectors, and art enthusiasts from around the world. This year, the fair, featuring over 100 galleries from 31 countries, will showcase a rich tapestry of modern and contemporary art, offering a unique opportunity to explore diverse artistic expressions and cultural narratives. The event will feature a wide range of artworks, from paintings and sculptures to installations and digital art, reflecting the latest trends and innovations in the art world.
Dyala Nusseibeh, Fair Director at Abu Dhabi Art, told emirateswoman.com that most fairs globally are organised by commercial entities that need to turn a significant profit from the event each year.
"Abu Dhabi Art is organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. This gives us a wider mandate – we need to be efficient and responsible with funds spent, but our goal is to support and drive the local and regional art market, more than to turn a profit ourselves. As a result, we can invest in programmes, book publications or exhibitions that are non-commercial but instead drive an investment in our eco-system," Nusseibeh noted.
The fair has a rich history that reflects the growth and evolution of the art scene in the UAE. It was first launched in 2007 under the name, ArtParis Abu Dhabi, at the Emirates Palace. At the time, it was organised by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH).
In 2009, the event was rebranded as Abu Dhabi Art and moved to Manarat Al Saadiyat on Saadiyat Island. This shift marked a significant expansion, with the fair now organised by the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC) and ADACH.
Over the years, it has continued to grow, attracting more galleries and artists from around the world. By 2011, it had established itself as a major event in the international art calendar, featuring a diverse range of artworks and engaging public programmes.
Manarat Al Saadiyat, which means “place of enlightenment,” has been a cornerstone of the local art scene since its opening, hosting a wide range of exhibitions, workshops and performances throughout the year.
The Abu Dhabi Art Fair is the culmination of a year-round visual arts programme that includes exhibitions, artist commissions, and installations across the Emirate.
The UAE’s Mohammed Kazem, whose art encompasses video, photography, and performance, will explore new ways of apprehending his environment and experiences; Lamya Gargash will present “Debutante Ball”, a piece that delves into cultural and social themes and Sarah Almehairi’s “Shared Motion” will be part of the fair, highlighting her innovative approach to contemporary art.
These artists, among many others, will contribute to the rich and diverse artistic landscape of the fair.
One of the key attractions of the Abu Dhabi Art Fair is its thematic showcases, which provide a curated experience for visitors. This year, the fair will introduce three new focus sectors, each highlighting different aspects of contemporary art.
Something Bold, Something New: This sector will spotlight modern artists from the region, offering fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to art.
Silk Road, Drifting Identities: This showcase will feature artists from Central Asia and the Cauca- sus, exploring themes of identity and cultural exchange.
The Collector’s Salon: For the first time, this sector will present artefacts, historical objects, and manuscripts, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Other exhibitions and thematic showcases include:
Gateway: This exhibition highlights local and international artists through unique perspectives. This year, it is curated by Odessa Warren and Carine Harmand.
Beyond Emerging Artists: An annual initiative that provides three emerging artists in the UAE with a platform to develop their practice and realise ambitious art projects.
Special Exhibitions: Key highlights include Cynthia Mak’s revival of traditional Chinese objects with a contemporary twist, a large-scale wall installation featuring ceramic works by Lokz Phoenix, and newly painted canvas paintings by Afa Annfa.
In addition to the exhibitions, the fair will host a series of engaging programmes and events designed to enrich the visitor experience. These include:
Talks and Panels: Renowned curators, artists, and gallery representatives will participate in discussions and panels, offering insights into the art world and the themes explored at the fair.
Workshops and Masterclasses: Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on sessions, learning from some of the leading artists and experts in the field.
Performances and Installations: The fair will feature a variety of performances and site-specific installations, adding a dynamic and interactive element to the event.
