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Arab News
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Art Dubai's 18th edition marks UAE's rise as key market for contemporary art
DUBAI: The Madinat Jumeirah is alive once again with the invigorating buzz of collectors, artists, gallerists and art lovers all gathered for the 18th edition of Art Dubai, which runs until April 20. There is the familiar sound of a multitude of languages and accents, reflecting Dubai's ever-growing international population as gallerists from around the world, including North America, China, South and Central Asia, Africa and from across the Middle East, showcase works that reflect the artistic breadth and culture of their respective countries. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ Of note are the 30 new exhibitors at Art Dubai, hailing from around the world, forming part of the 120 galleries taking part this year. The quality of works on display, underlined artistic director Pablo del Val, are particularly noteworthy this year and, he says, evoke a sense of escapism and surrealism as if to provide refuge from the uncertainty of today's times. The quality of works and international range of galleries also reflect the changing nature of Dubai. Rather than take up residence in Dubai for a short-term period of a few years, new residents are coming to the city with plans, it seems, to stay for longer. At the same time, there has been notable investment in cultural infrastructure within the UAE that is now paying off, resulting in a plethora of new museums, galleries, institutions and initiatives offering visitors to Art Dubai a wealth of cultural activities outside the fair. 'Today there is a change in the architecture (of Dubai), with residents desiring more state-of-the-art homes with more space,' del Val told Arab News. 'When these people move to Dubai they are doing so with a long-term version. This gives a sense of stability to the city and necessitates a different kind of art collecting.' Among the newcomers to the fair was Richard Saltoun Gallery, which has branches in Rome, London and New York. 'This will be our first participation at Art Dubai and we are thrilled to be participating. Dubai, and the UAE in general, is one of the most interesting and growing markets that we work with,' Niamh Coglan, sales director at Richard Saltoun Gallery, told Arab News. 'The institutional collections, foundations and private collections are curious, active and engaging to work with. Having worked with several major museums and foundations over the past few years in the region, we knew we had to take a more active role and be more present.' Among the artists the gallery will show at the fair is Mozambican modernist Bertina Lopes, whose work is on display in the exhibition Kings and Queens of Africa at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Among the notable works at the fair was a large 196 x 363 cm painting by the late Iranian artist Bahman Mohassess and New York-based Leila Heller Gallery's booth portraying two abstract figures locked in a passionate embrace, one colored red and the other off-white next to a group of stones and an abstract black bird flying overhead. The work, which has garnered great interest among collectors, is being sold for $2,650,000. In the Bawwaba section of specially commissioned works for the fair, Saudi artist Abdullah Al-Othman is showcasing a solo project in the form of a large installation work of signs, symbols and photography from around Riyadh as part of his series Manifesto: the Language & the City (2011). The work is being displayed through Iris Art Projects, the only GCC gallery exhibiting in the section. Showcasing works from the African continent and diaspora is Efie Gallery, a Dubai-based gallery that recently moved to Alserkal Avenue. The gallery's booth presented a mixed media presentation that is thoughtfully and serenely curated featuring works by Abdoulaye Konate, Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons, Hugh Findletar and J.K. Bruce Vanderpuije. 'We love being in the Middle East and Dubai because it has offered us a clean slate as opposed to the West, where we need to deconstruct narratives,' said co-founder of the gallery Kwame Mintah. 'Here we are offered the space to construct the narratives.'
Observer
10-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Art Dubai brings exciting opportunities for artists and art lovers this season
As the regional art scene continues to blossom, a wave of creativity sweeps through the GCC states, providing a vibrant landscape for artists and art lovers alike. Emerging talents from Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and beyond are harnessing this moment to redefine cultural narratives and explore new mediums, all while connecting with a broader audience eager to appreciate their work. Artists are increasingly collaborating across borders, sharing not only their skills but also their experiences and diverse backgrounds. This collaborative spirit sets the tone for an enriching cultural dialogue, allowing Omani artists to gain exposure and insight from their regional counterparts while contributing their unique perspectives. As the conversation around contemporary art in the region evolves, venues across the GCC are becoming hotspots for creativity and innovation. Art collectives, galleries, and cultural initiatives are springing up in cities like Dubai and Muscat, providing platforms for local artists to exhibit their work and engage with the public. With events tailored specifically to facilitate artistic exchange and exploration, artists now have opportunities to present their stories in mediums that resonate with contemporary audiences. As the curtains rise on Art Dubai from April 18 to 20, 2025, the annual art fair is set to transform the landscape for artists in the GCC. With its expansive reach and diverse programming, Art Dubai has become a vital platform for GCC-based creators to showcase their talents, engage with international audiences, and forge meaningful connections with influential artists and curators from around the globe. Celebrated as the largest and most significant annual art event in the Middle East, the art fair will present over 500 artists through 120 contemporary, modern, and digital gallery presentations. Drawing participants from more than 65 cities and 40 countries, the fair aims to establish a dynamic ecosystem where regional talent can thrive alongside their international counterparts. "Art Dubai serves as a critical gateway for emerging artists, providing them an excellent opportunity to display their work to a global audience," notes Pablo del Val, Artistic Director of Art Dubai. The fair not only highlights local talents but also facilitates interactions that can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and invaluable networking opportunities. Here, artists from Oman and across the GCC can connect with prominent curators, collectors, and art enthusiasts, enhancing their visibility and reach in the competitive art world. This year's fair will include a specially curated section called Bawwaba, emphasizing artworks that explore themes relevant to GCC artists, such as identity, migration, and community. By addressing these significant topics, Art Dubai aims to foster an inclusive dialogue that resonates across cultures, further positioning the fair as a vital platform for GCC artists to engage with contemporary global conversations. Additionally, the integration of immersive installations and live performances will add layers of creativity to the event. These elements not only entertain but also stimulate discussions among artists, curators, and the public, creating an environment ripe for inspiration and collaboration. For instance, the live performance by Héctor Zamora will delve into concepts of rebirth and transformation, inviting a fresh perspective on artistic practice. The upcoming edition of Art Dubai is particularly notable for its expanded emphasis on digital art, reflecting the fair's commitment to innovation and accessibility in the art sector. By featuring leading digital artists and their avant-garde creations, the fair seeks to engage a younger audience while allowing GCC artists to explore new mediums and practices. With the backing of influential partners such as Julius Baer and the support of the UAE authorities, Art Dubai continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the region's cultural landscape. The fair exemplifies the UAE's dedication to fostering a diverse and vibrant art scene that prioritizes opportunity and connectivity for artists at all stages of their careers. As the art community prepares for this major event, the excitement surrounding Art Dubai is palpable. For GCC artists, it represents not just a chance to showcase their work, but a unique opportunity to network and collaborate on a global scale. As they converge in Dubai, these artists are poised to transform the local art narrative into one that resonates far beyond the region, forging connections that will help propel their careers in the ever-evolving world of contemporary art.
Observer
09-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Exciting opportunities for artists and art lovers in the GCC this season
As the regional art scene continues to blossom, a wave of creativity sweeps through the GCC states, providing a vibrant landscape for artists and art lovers alike. Emerging talents from Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and beyond are harnessing this moment to redefine cultural narratives and explore new mediums, all while connecting with a broader audience eager to appreciate their work. At the forefront of this artistic renaissance is a growing sense of community among creators throughout the GCC. Artists are increasingly collaborating across borders, sharing not only their skills but also their experiences and diverse backgrounds. This collaborative spirit sets the tone for an enriching cultural dialogue, allowing Omani artists to gain exposure and insight from their regional counterparts while contributing their unique perspectives. As the conversation around contemporary art in the region evolves, venues across the GCC are becoming hotspots for creativity and innovation. Art collectives, galleries, and cultural initiatives are springing up in cities like Dubai and Muscat, providing platforms for local artists to exhibit their work and engage with the public. With events tailored specifically to facilitate artistic exchange and exploration, artists now have opportunities to present their stories in mediums that resonate with contemporary audiences. As the curtains rise on Art Dubai from April 18 to 20, 2025, the annual art fair is set to transform the landscape for artists in the GCC. With its expansive reach and diverse programming, Art Dubai has become a vital platform for GCC-based creators to showcase their talents, engage with international audiences, and forge meaningful connections with influential artists and curators from around the globe. Celebrated as the largest and most significant annual art event in the Middle East, the art fair will present over 500 artists through 120 contemporary, modern, and digital gallery presentations. Drawing participants from more than 65 cities and 40 countries, the fair aims to establish a dynamic ecosystem where regional talent can thrive alongside their international counterparts. "Art Dubai serves as a critical gateway for emerging artists, providing them an excellent opportunity to display their work to a global audience," notes Pablo del Val, Artistic Director of Art Dubai. The fair not only highlights local talents but also facilitates interactions that can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and invaluable networking opportunities. Here, artists from Oman and across the GCC can connect with prominent curators, collectors, and art enthusiasts, enhancing their visibility and reach in the competitive art world. This year's fair will include a specially curated section called Bawwaba, emphasizing artworks that explore themes relevant to GCC artists, such as identity, migration, and community. By addressing these significant topics, Art Dubai aims to foster an inclusive dialogue that resonates across cultures, further positioning the fair as a vital platform for GCC artists to engage with contemporary global conversations. Additionally, the integration of immersive installations and live performances will add layers of creativity to the event. These elements not only entertain but also stimulate discussions among artists, curators, and the public, creating an environment ripe for inspiration and collaboration. For instance, the live performance by Héctor Zamora will delve into concepts of rebirth and transformation, inviting a fresh perspective on artistic practice. The upcoming edition of Art Dubai is particularly notable for its expanded emphasis on digital art, reflecting the fair's commitment to innovation and accessibility in the art sector. By featuring leading digital artists and their avant-garde creations, the fair seeks to engage a younger audience while allowing GCC artists to explore new mediums and practices. With the backing of influential partners such as Julius Baer and the support of the UAE authorities, Art Dubai continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the region's cultural landscape. The fair exemplifies the UAE's dedication to fostering a diverse and vibrant art scene that prioritizes opportunity and connectivity for artists at all stages of their careers. As the art community prepares for this major event, the excitement surrounding Art Dubai is palpable. For GCC artists, it represents not just a chance to showcase their work, but a unique opportunity to network and collaborate on a global scale. As they converge in Dubai, these artists are poised to transform the local art narrative into one that resonates far beyond the region, forging connections that will help propel their careers in the ever-evolving world of contemporary art.
