The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi Announces New Line-up of Artists for Art Space - Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi Announces New Line-up of Artists for Art Space

21 Jan, 2021

An inspiring new line up of artists is unveiled this week for Art Space, an initiative organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), in partnership with Aldar Properties, to provide exhibition space for UAE-based artists in various gallery spaces in retail outlets across the emirate.

Art Space shines a light on the creative potential within the Abu Dhabi community and allows artists to showcase their latest works to the public at prime locations. With over 15,000 visitors since its launch in November 2020, Art Space provides an opportunity for established artists to widen their audience base, while up-and-coming artists benefit from community feedback and the chance to develop key partnerships within Abu Dhabi’s creative community.

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Art Space is a testament to our commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi-based artists, who are critical to the development of a thriving and sustainable cultural and creative ecosystem in the emirate. In fostering creative discussions and providing artists with new avenues of exposure and collaboration, Art Space is a key initiative in our mission to develop Abu Dhabi into a culturally conscious city with a global art scene.”

An exhibit by Abdelrahim Salim is on show at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall, presenting ‘Formations’, a series of paintings featuring his renowned use of abstraction and relating the story of Maheerah, a muse to the artist and the central figure of all of the works on show. The display at Yas Mall is an extension of Salim’s current solo exhibition at Cultural Foundation, Between Serenity and Chaos (through 22 February), at which audiences can experience a full range of works by the artist and further explore the narratives behind Maheerah.

Simrin Mehra Agarwal is now exhibiting her work in an all-new Art Space location at Al Jimi Mall, Al Ain. Agarwal focusses her art on concepts of nature, growth, and regeneration. Using drawings, carvings and relief on paper, wood, and plaster, she creates detailed forms and complex compositions.

Tomorrow, 21 January will see Afra Al Suwaidi exhibit ‘Slumber’, an immersive installation featuring a series of sculptures, wall objects and collages, at World Trade Center Mall, Abu Dhabi. Al Suwaidi’s works intertwine toys, candy, foam and personal objects as she recreates a setting in which playtime turns to trauma and resembles the silent echo of mistreated children.

Both Mehra Agarwal and Alsuwaidi were chosen to participate in Art Space as they both are currently Cultural Foundation Resident Artists.

The Art Space initiative was introduced following a ‘CulturAll Conversations’ panel discussion between HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak and UAE-based artists, who gathered to discuss the ongoing development of the cultural scene in the UAE and ways to tackle the challenges faced by the artistic community.

Artists will continue to showcase their works through Art Space until May 2021. UAE-based artists will be able to use gallery and exhibition spaces at Aldar Properties’ landmark malls including Yas Mall, World Trade Centre Mall and Al Jimi Mall in Al Ain.
Details on later phases of Art Space and the additional artists to be featured will be announced at a later date.