RSTW
Having already hosted the likes of Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock, this blockbuster of a show sees Abu Dhabi add Ed Ruscha, Robert Rauschenberg, Richard Serra, Cy Twombly, Christopher Wool and Andy Warhol to its rapidly growing collection of A-list exhibitors. It’s all thanks to legendary New York-based art impresario Larry Gagosian, who has brought his previously unseen private collection of artwork to the city. This pop art extravaganza is undoubtedly the biggest art event of the year for the capital, and should not be missed by anyone.
Free. Until January 24. Manarat Al Saadiyat.
Dropping Lines
A collection of recent work from six Emirati artists. Hassan Sharif is our pick of the show – he’s exhibiting new paintings of common objects, as well as his mind-boggling sculptures of physically manipulated everyday items.
Free. Until November 20. Salwa Zeidan Gallery.
The Dawn of a new Day
Appearing for the first time in the Middle East, celebrated artist Alfonso Borghi is in the city for a very brief show. Though the solo exhibition also includes some of the Italian’s sculptures, all eyes will be on his rich, layered canvases – particularly his abstract tribute to the UAE, ‘Burj Khalifa’. All of the works due to be on show will also be for sale, so bring your chequebook if you fancy leaving with a souvenir.
Free. Until November 18. Acento Gallery.
Pablo Cots and Leonardo Godoy
Two aspiring French artists bring their wares to the capital for a brief but potentially captivating show. Pablo Cots’ paintings of suburban scenes could draw the most interest, with the Parisian filling his work with post-modern references to street and pop art.
Free. Until November 9. National Theatre.
Abu Dhabi Art
One of the biggest weekends of the year for the city’s art lovers. The calendar includes a busy schedule of talks and workshops across the city’s galleries, offering tips on everything from print-making to sculpture. Crowds are likely to be drawn by the central art fair at Emirates Palace, which last year attracted exhibitors from the biggest cities in world art and treated visitors to showings by heavyweights including Jeff Koons and Antony Gormley. Expect the latest show to be bigger and better.
Free. November 4-7. Centred around Emirates Palace.
