This collective of artists have come a long way since they first burst on to Abu Dhabi’s art scene in 2008. Having swelled their ranks with some fresh talent, they are now gearing up for their fifth show, starting in the capital this week. With Art Squad members hailing from all over the world, their latest exhibition promises a diverse and intriguing set of works, including sculptures, paintings and sketches in a variety of media. We caught up with squad member and environmental artist Andrew Field to find out more.
Tell us a little about the history of the Art Squad.
The Abu Dhabi Art Squad (ADAS) was set up in 2008 with the aim of developing a group of professional and aspiring artists who live in Abu Dhabi to exhibit their work. Since then, ADAS has attracted 13 members from different countries to promote the arts scene here, and put on exhibitions for the artists in the group. Innes Landmesser, a well-known German artist and illustrator has recently joined the group and will be an invaluable source of inspiration and support to other like-minded artists who are keen to develop their career.
You have some new squad members showcasing their work at this exhibition.
Mohammed Ben Damir is an established sculptor from Tunisia, and Kim Robertson is an established artist and designer who specialises in printing. Chantal van Heerden, from South Africa, is an extremely sophisticated young painter whose works are emotive, like visual poems, communicating the complexities of everyday life and past experiences. She will be displaying her talent for the first time in the UAE this month.
What works can visitors expect to see at this show?
There will be an eclectic range of works, ranging from impressive free-standing wire sculptures in the lobby of the Millennium Hotel, to elegant sculpted marble forms by Johanna Klein and angular Bauhaus-style pieces by master Bulgarian sculptor Svilen Petrov (who has been a resident artist at ADACH for more than 15 years). Large canvases by Eva Neisen are inspired by the Russian ballet, and there will be delicate pastel portraits by Giovanna Magugliani. Soumyajit Choudhury will be displaying his semi-abstract mixed media pieces, which explore geometric forms and allow his subconscious to dictate and reveal inner mysteries. Said Al Sowafy will be showing his ever-popular figurative compositions, which are inspired by his own Ugandan heritage and cubist influence. Bruce Hill will bring the exhibition alive with his colourful and expressive pieces, reminiscent of the approach by late Royal Academician John Hoyland.
That’s quite a variety! And which of your own pieces will you have on display?
I’ll be displaying watercolours produced plein air (outdoors) on Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, which characterise the fragile and unique coastline of Abu Dhabi, with the hope of raising environmental awareness. I am always proud of the work I produce plein air, because it is an immediate and personal response to the landscape that cannot be achieved when working in the studio. Perhaps my favourite piece of work is ‘Old public beach, intense heat, rubbish everywhere’. This piece is a good example of how I’m trying to promote environmental awareness and the conservation of Abu Dhabi’s coastline through my art and [how I’m documenting] the constant change of the natural landscape here.
What’s next for the Art Squad?
We are always keen to speak to serious artists in Abu Dhabi who are likeminded and want to help promote art in the capital and beyond. We believe that by working together and arranging group exhibitions, we can enable the artists to become recognised in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. We are currently working on a proposal for an exhibition at Atelier D’Arts, the newly opened boutique art shop in Abu Dhabi, and at Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre in the new year.
The Art Squad’s fifth exhibition will be held from October 26 to November 3 (opening reception from 7pm) at Millennium Hotel (02 614 6070). For information, or if you are interested in joining Abu Dhabi Art Squad, visit www.abudhabiartsquad.com
