Whether you’re looking to start your very own art collection (look at you), get your hands on some original art, or just fill some empty wall space, there are heaps of places to find affordable art here in the UAE.
When investing in a relatively unknown artist, there’s no guarantee that the value will increase (in fact, the person may fall off the radar entirely) so make sure you buy something you’re committed to, something you truly love, and something you can imagine sharing your home with in years to come.
So, who’s ready to start their art collection? Here’s where to find affordable art in the UAE.
ARTE, The Makers’ Market
Featuring a large selection of locally-made art, fashion and crafts, ARTE (an acronym for ‘Artisans of the Emirates’) is a place for local crafters and artisans to showcase and sell their creations. The market happens in Dubai each week and you can find up to 150 contemporary and original designers to shop from. Each event is different, as crafters don’t usually attend every one, and the range is extraordinary – from handmade, intricately designed candles to striking paintings (you can even get your hands on freshly baked cakes), products range from the wearable to the edible and everything in between.
arte.ae/events.
Artezaar
If you’re looking to add a splash of colour and creativity to your home, it’s working checking out Artezaar, a one-stop-shop for artists, collectors, and enthusiasts. The website showcases more than 1,500 different pieces from over 150 UAE-based artists and was launched in 2019 with the aim of making art affordable and accessible for all. You’ll find everything from paintings, sculptures, digital art, ceramics, and decoupage, with the cheapest item on the website being Dh35 and the most expensive piece – a striking painting by Luchina Akhmad – coming in at Dhs20,250. With thousands of pieces to choose from you’re bound to find a piece to suit your style (and your wallet).
artezaar.com (050 453 3439).
Artworks
From pop art prints to vintage Japanese pieces and a strong focus on pop culture (think Supreme prints and neon galore), online store Artworks sells an extensive range of unique and affordable framed and canvas art prints. The ready-to-hang pieces are made to order in Dubai and featured artists receive a share of each sale. (We may or may not have our eyes on the ‘Yalla habibi’ print.)
artworks.ae.
Drawdeck
For wannabe art collectors just starting out, Drawdeck is a good place to begin. The UAE-based e-commerce platform specialises in affordable wall art from independent artists from across the globe. The website aims to redefine the experience of buying and selling art by making it easy, convenient, and welcoming for both the consumers and the artists and you can browse through a diverse selection of curated pieces, pick your frame and have it delivered to your door ready to hang. The artworks are divided into various categories and styles ranging from illustrations, comics, nature, fashion, food and more and not only does each sale directly support the artist behind the design, for each print sold one tree is planted, too. Art with a conscience? We like.
drawdeck.com.
Home Hub
Offering an extensive selection of home décor, art, and unique furniture, Home Hub showcases the very best of local artisans and businesses across the UAE. Set up by best friends Toufic and Stephanie, Home Hub is designed to aid art enthusiasts in the region discover hidden gems, support the UAE’s community of creatives, and help residents transform their “house into a dream home” – and without breaking the bank. You can find everything from graffiti-adorned stools to contemporary lamps, vibrant paintings, and metal wall hangings, and in line with Home Hub’s accessible ethos, price tags start from Dhs100, meaning you don’t need wads of cash to get involved and buy some art.
homehubme.com
MMG Art Gallery
Looking to inject your home with some escapism? Showcasing original pieces from independent and emerging artists and photographers from across the globe, MMG Art Gallery is a digital gallery offering contemporary art photography at affordable and accessible prices. The unique selection covers everything from black and white, fashion, portrait, nature, landscape, urban, abstract, and architecture and you can get your hands on some striking limited-edition prints.
mmgartgallery.com.
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