Interested in the global art scene? Here in Abu Dhabi there is one major event that trumps all others for the artists and culture vultures among us: Abu Dhabi Art.
The good news? This year the event will be returning to Manarat Al Saadiyat from Thursday November 18 to Sunday November 21. The even better news? It’s happening in person.
Every year Abu Dhabi Art stuns the global art market with works created by established and emerging artists and galleries from around the world. Artists, critics, collectors and people of the boho-chic persuasion fly in to see what’s new and hot on the market.
The event is not just an opportunity to buy artwork from global galleries, it also features ambitious installations and site-specific work that you shouldn’t miss.
One year, Japanese artist Tadashi Kawamata created a sculpture called ‘Chairs for Abu Dhabi’ out of hundreds of chairs spiraling into a beehive that guests could enter and walk around inside. Past versions of the fair have also included family-friendly activities, panel discussions, and performances that are designed to spark conversation and inspire your creativity.
Last year’s virtual fair was a huge success, and featured a digital programme of works and curated gallery sections from artists around the world.
Abu Dhabi Art 2021 will showcase several new commissioned installations at locations throughout Abu Dhabi. The installations will stretch from Liwa to Al Ain, bringing site-specific work to heritage sites around the emirate.
This art-driven experience of the UAE’s vibrant culture and history is part of the event’s Beyond Emerging Artists Commissions programme, which enables exceptional younger UAE artists to exhibit their work to a wide audience.
As always, Abu Dhabi art works closely with selected artists to develop a visual campaign. This year it is featuring works by Emirati artists Ayesha Hadhir, Rawdha Khalifa Al Ketbi and Shaikha Fahad Al Ketbi. In these works they will be exploring the idea of transformation in different environments; from seascapes and the desert to abandoned cityscapes.
Guest artists and curators will be announced in the coming months, along with further details about the programme.
Mark your calendars and start planning your best outfit; this is an event you certainly won’t want to miss.
Can’t wait until November to visit Manarat Al Saadiyat? You should check out the hip hop exhibition they have on until May 31.
Thu Nov 18- Sun Nov 21. Abu Dhabi Art, Manarat Al Saadiyat (02 657 5800).
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