It’s time for the art junkies of Abu Dhabi to get their annual fix of world-class paintings, sculptures, photography (and in the case of Tracey Emin’s work, scribbled writing in neon pink lights), because Art Abu Dhabi is back in town, this year housed at the UAE Pavilion beside Manarat Al Saadiyat. The iconic venue was designed by Foster + Partners and built originally for display at Shanghai’s 2010 World Expo 2010, showcasing exhibitions that highlight the history of the UAE.
But now it’s on home soil, and between the November 16-19, will contain works from artists as diverse as Jeff Koon, Hassan Sharif and Anish Kapoor.
The Galleries
Almost 50 galleries will be lending works to Abu Dhabi Art this year – here a just a few we’ll be looking out for.
Galerie Jérôme de Noirmont
This Parisian gallery specializes in contemporary art. Galerie Jérôme de Noirmont was the first to exhibit Jeff Koons in a solo show in 1997 and Koons’ Split Rocker will be on display at ADA.
The Third Line
Dubai’s Third Line Gallery supports the work of artists based in the Middle East, and will be transporting works by Youssef Nabil down the E11 for this year’s Abu Dhabi Art. The Egyptian artist combines photography and painting to great effect.
Gagosian Gallery
Manarat al Saadiyat’s first ever exhibition, held last year, was a series of pieces by Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly and others from the personal collection of influential art dealer Larry Gagosian. Naturally the Gagosian Gallery will be represented at this year’s art fair.
October Gallery
Founded in 1979 in London, October Gallery played a pioneering role in the promotion of contemporary art from all around the world and will be showcasing some of Kenji Yoshida’s dramatic abstract paintings.
White Cube
Tracey Emin’s bold neon scrawl, reading ‘Love is what you want’ will be on loan from White Cube in London, making an edgy, vibrant addition to the exhibition this year.
Salwa Zaidan Gallery
One of Abu Dhabi’s own best loved galleries, Salwa Zaidan showcases inspirational works from both Middle Eastern and international artists. Thought-provoking photography from Reem al Faisal will be on display including the evocative piece: Proof of Islam.
Tony Shafrazi Gallery
Irreverent pieces by the inimitable Keith Haring have made their way to Abu Dhabi from New York’s Tony Shafrazi Gallery. Look out for Haring’s bold and wacky paintings using well-known characters such as Mickey Mouse.
Leila Heller Gallery
Leila Heller Gallery will exhibit an individually crafted table by accomplished artist and designer Rolf Sachs. The tabletop is filled with carbonised black oil, and brought to life through the ripple effects of a ‘mechanical heartbeat’ that is transmitted onto the oil surface, making it seem alive.
Event highlights:
Abu Dhabi Art Talk: Curating and collecting photography
Alison Kelly, curator at the British Museum, and Dominique de Font-Reaulx, curator at the Musée du Louvre will discuss the history of photography in the Middle East.
Theatre, Manarat Al Saadiyat, November 16 , 4pm to 5pm.
Workshop: Saadiyat Seascape
Inspired by the surrounding seascape of Saadiyat Island, participants will learn a simple and effective process for painting or drawing the seascape onto canvas. No previous art experience necessary. Prior registration is required.
Art and Design Workshop, Manarat Al Saadiyat, November 17 5.30- 7pm.
Book Launch: Art in Iraq today
This publication brings together a group of Iraqi artists who are united in their experience of exile.
Abu Dhabi Art Lounge, Manarat Al Saadiyat, November 17, 6- 7pm.
