The city of Abu Dhabi has been nurturing a burgeoning underground art scene, with boutique galleries sprouting up alongside new shows, exhibits and creative institutions. Helping to fuel this undercurrent of creative expression are Emily Gordon and Julia Ibbini, who are hosting a two-day open house event for the public. Set to take place at the home of the animated Emily, the event will allow peers, prospective buyers and interested onlookers to sample unique creations, while discussing technique and style with the creators.
Contemporary artists Julia and Emily have been living in Abu Dhabi for over a decade and have developed successful careers creating captivating and intricate works full of vibrant colours and detail. While both have enjoyed notable success in previous exhibitions, they are excited about hosting this open house because it offers a new platform for the artists to interact with the public. ‘We have held similar events in the past, and the success of the previous ones has helped us plan this edition,’ explains Emily.
For two days on March 22 and 23, people will be able to visit the home of Emily and see all kinds of art pieces. ‘One of the interesting things about exhibiting at home, as opposed to a gallery, is that visitors will get to see what the art piece will look like in an intimate setting,’ says Julia. Herself a textile artist, Julia will also be presenting some designer scarves. Despite the difference in medium, Julia’s flair for combining intricate beading and materials with colours still shines through. Emily is typically known for her dynamic renditions of Arabesque doors with lavish adornments, and while this open house will certainly feature the usual suspects, she will also be presenting original functional art works.
Although there is no particular theme to the event, the setting is brimming with so many beautiful artistic works that immediately lure onlookers into silent conversation. Art is everywhere and the gracious hosts mirror that captivating energy that simultaneously draws one in while putting one at ease. ‘The mood is certainly meant to be informal,’ says Emily. ‘It’s great to be able to see the silent reactions of onlookers and feed off their impressions.’ During the event, onlookers and prospective buyers can get into detailed discussions with the artists. ‘All this helps promote the underground art scene that is developing in the city,’ says Emily.
While both artists speak very highly of galleries and the official channels for promoting and hosting art in the city, it is undeniable that such grass roots events are fundamental for promoting a dialogue between peers and aspiring artists. The networking potential of this event will be significant, and visitors will be able to purchase some art at artists’ prices. ‘We are very fortunate that galleries have been very good to us and we have excellent relationships with them,’ says Julia. ‘But it’s also nice to be able to host something less formal and more akin to a friendly visit.’
Asking questions is one of the primary drives for this event, as well as gathering feedback from peers and people who appreciate art for its sake. ‘Being an artist, sometimes seeing another person’s work can inspire new ideas in you. It’s important to support this undertone because it might encourage other ideas or works,’ says Emily. Whatever the motives, attendance at this function will support the string of creative outlets that are emerging in the city, and will ultimately shape its cultural currency and legacy.
The open house will take place on March 22 and 23, from 11am-5pm. 15th Street, behind Abu Dhabi Media Company, Al Ain Villa #5 (02 443 3980). For more information about Emily Gordon visit www.emodart.com. For more information about Julia Ibbini visit www.ibbini.com.
